This Tiny Texas Bake Shop Has a Line That Never Seems to Shrink

There is a reason Houstonians line up before sunrise on Crosstimbers. Flying Saucer Pie Company turns simple fruit and cream pies into hometown legends, the kind you carry into a party like a trophy. The shop is tiny, the prices are friendly, and the flavors feel like family traditions.

Show up early, bring patience, and prepare to leave with a box that disappears fast.

1. Why The Line Never Shrinks

You see the line and think it will move slowly, but it creeps forward with a rhythm. Boxes slide across the counter, the air smells like butter and fruit, and conversations bounce between holiday plans and favorite flavors. The routine is familiar, almost ritual, and it builds anticipation with every step.

Inside, staff move with practiced ease, answering quick questions while filling orders. Regulars grab strawberry, Dutch apple, or chocolate cream without hesitation. Newcomers scan the board, realizing choices vanish as quickly as they appear.

The wait becomes part of the experience, a Houston tradition wrapped in flaky crust. Bring patience, cash or card, and a backup choice. Lines form early, especially before Thanksgiving.

2. Strawberry Cream Pie Faithful

If you ask around in line, strawberry cream gets shouted out first. Glossy berries, light cream, and a crust that keeps it all together create a sweet tart balance you do not forget. Some say it is perfect chilled, others swear by a brief fridge rest after pickup.

You will hear mixed takes about fruit vs. cream, but strawberry cream claims its own loyal fan club. It is bright, crowd pleasing, and easy to share. Bring it to a cookout or office potluck and watch the box empty.

If whole pies feel like too much, grab a slice to test the waters. Then plan your return. You will probably need two boxes next time.

3. Dutch Apple vs. Classic Apple

Apple fans split into two camps here. Dutch apple leans crumbly and buttery with a sweet streusel cap, while classic apple keeps things traditional with a golden crust and tender, cinnamon kissed filling. Either way, the apples taste fresh and the crust brings gentle crunch.

Heat makes a difference. Follow the simple warming instructions, and that first forkful turns cozy and nostalgic. A scoop of vanilla ice cream never hurts, though the pies stand strong on their own.

Not sure which to pick. Grab both and run a taste test at home. The winner usually depends on whether you want crisp crumbs or that timeless double crust bite.

4. Chocolate Cream Crowd Pleaser

Chocolate cream is the curveball that always vanishes first at gatherings. The filling is silky, not stodgy, with a mellow chocolate note that welcomes a second slice. It is not a showy pie, but the texture and balance make it dangerously easy to love.

You may hear someone call it standard. Fair. Yet when plates come back clean, the verdict is obvious.

It travels well, chills well, and plays nicely with coffee. Keep it cold until serving for the smoothest cut. If you want extra flair, dust cocoa or shave chocolate on top.

You will convert the skeptics who claim they are not dessert people.

5. Holiday Game Plan

Before Thanksgiving and Christmas, the line at 436 W Crosstimbers begins at daybreak. Doors open at 7 AM, and favorites sell out in waves. Pumpkin disappears early, so have a backup like pecan, apple, or chocolate cream ready.

Bring patience, water, and a friendly mood. The staff keeps things moving, but demand is no joke. You will leave with a box that becomes the centerpiece of your table.

Pro tip. Aim for around 9 AM if pumpkin is already gone and you are flexible. If you are set on specific pies, arrive closer to open.

Either way, you will taste Houston tradition in every slice.

6. Key Lime, Lemon, and Tart Debates

Key lime and lemon get fans talking. Some crave sharper tartness while others prefer a gentler citrus bite topped with whipped cream. Opinions vary, but the chilled slices are refreshing when Houston heat lingers.

If you like bracing zest, let the pie sit cold and slice cleanly for a tight, citrusy wedge. For balance, add a dollop of extra cream at home. Either approach works when you want something lighter than rich chocolate or nutty pecan.

Occasional reviews call the filling light on intensity. Others love the smooth, easygoing style. Your best move is to try a slice first and decide your ideal tart level.

7. Pecan, Pumpkin, and Seasonal Staples

When fall hits, pecan and pumpkin become the stars. Pecan brings that glossy nut layer over a sweet, buttery base, and it slices beautifully. Pumpkin leans smooth and warmly spiced, a classic for family tables and Friendsgiving nights.

These pies are reliable crowd favorites. If you are gifting, pecan travels well and looks festive without extra decoration. Pumpkin offers comfort, especially warmed slightly with whipped cream.

Holiday lines move fast, so order early in the day for the best shot. If pumpkin sells out, pivot to Dutch apple or chocolate cream. You will still walk in with a pie that draws a grateful hush.

8. How To Visit Like A Local

Set your map to 436 W Crosstimbers St, Houston, TX, and plan around the hours. The shop opens at 7 AM Tuesday through Saturday and closes Sunday and Monday. Parking is straightforward, but lines form early.

Decide your top two pies before you reach the counter. If you are unsure, start with strawberry cream and Dutch apple. Slices help you test the menu without commitment.

Bring a cooler bag if you are driving across town. Keep cream pies cold, and reheat fruit pies at home per the bottom label. Call ahead only for quick questions, then let the line experience become part of the story you bring home.