In 2016, Judy Bernstein-Balunda established JudyPie in Grapevine, Texas, combining her passion for baking with a commitment to mental health awareness. Having spent 25 years as a middle school and special education teacher, the 74-year-old entrepreneur turned her talents towards creating a shop renowned for its fresh pies and community contributions.
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Since its inception, JudyPie has gained widespread recognition and acclaim. In 2026, the shop was ranked as the eighth best pie establishment in the United States according to USA TODAY’s Best Pie Shop awards, a feat it has maintained for several consecutive years. This success can largely be attributed to the shop’s signature dish: a pecan pie that showcases a recipe passed down from Bernstein-Balunda’s mother, Rhoda.
In an interview, Bernstein-Balunda fondly recalled her childhood experiences in Waco, Texas, where her mother would bake pies every Sunday. It was during that time, as she helped pick and crack pecans, that her love for baking was nurtured. “Judy Pie” was a nickname her mother affectionately used for her, and it inspired a lifelong dream to share those cherished family recipes with others.
JudyPie’s pecan pie is distinctive for its Texas-shaped crust topped with a heart, honouring both the state and Bernstein-Balunda’s mother. Bernstein-Balunda takes particular pride in the craftsmanship of her pastry, ensuring the pecans are perfectly baked to achieve just the right amount of crispness without being overly sweet. She expressed her confidence in the pie’s quality, stating, “You won’t find any better.”
Apart from the iconic pecan offering, JudyPie caters to a range of dietary preferences, selling keto, gluten-free, and dairy-free pies. The shop often takes special orders, with customers expressing emotional connections linked to their baked goods. Bernstein-Balunda recounted the story of a man who broke down in tears upon tasting a pie because it reminded him of his late mother, illustrating the profound impact her pies have on personal memories and family ties.
In 2024, JudyPie made headlines when it received over 1,000 pre-orders for Thanksgiving pies alone, compelling the business to set up a separate location to handle the overwhelming demand. Bernstein-Balunda’s gratitude towards her customers was clear when she remarked, “I can’t believe they’re here for my pie… I’m thankful and grateful.” Remarkably, more than half of the pre-orders were for her beloved pecan pies.
Beyond running a successful pie shop, Bernstein-Balunda is devoted to advocating for mental health awareness. Each month, JudyPie donates pies and supplies to the MHMR community centre in Fort Worth. This initiative stems from her own experiences with depression, motivating her to use her platform to encourage conversations about mental health. At the shop, guests can leave supportive messages in designated notebooks, fostering a communal sense of hope and positivity.
Central to JudyPie’s mission is the belief that food can connect people and provide comfort, especially in difficult times. Bernstein-Balunda remarked, “My pies remind people of family and memories made together,” highlighting the emotional connections her customers find in their beloved desserts.
As JudyPie continues to thrive, Bernstein-Balunda’s dedication to both her pies and mental health advocacy remains unwavering. Her journey, from educator to entrepreneur, showcases the power of following one’s passion while also making a meaningful difference within the community. Whether drawing in customers with her mouth-watering pecan pie or supporting mental health initiatives, it is clear that Judy Bernstein-Balunda is not just serving pie; she is nurturing connections and spreading a message of hope throughout Grapevine and beyond.