Pie in the Park at Prospect Park

Baking up a storm for a good cause

Prospect Park turned into an amateur bakery of sorts this past Sunday, as dozens of pie peeps showed up bearing crusty creations for the third annual Pie in the Park bake-off. What started as a casual gathering for pastry-loving friends has since turned into a full-blown competition (even without big-name judges).

There were sweet and savory contenders—one clever team even made a vat of chili for Texan Frito Pies, served in chip bags and topped with sour cream. But after the final ballots were tallied, only a few claimed glory: Daniela Bustamante took best presentation for her miniature lemon-curd basil-crust pie pops. Dan LeBeaux, Diana Gaubvin and Annie Wachnicki won best crust with their “Rock of Love”–inspired amaretto and cherry pie. And the top award went to Marci Kwon and Matt Berkman for their “Devil on Horseback” pie, featuring candied bacon and dates topped with candied bacon ice cream.

This year, organizer Lauren Cucinotta teamed up with Hot Bread Kitchen, a nonprofit that helps immigrant women while preserving baking traditions. The $5 entrance fee went to support HBK, which donated vintage pie tins and artisanal baked goods as prizes. —Jamie Feldmar