There’s a small bakery in Miami. It’s unassuming. No flashy signs, no grandiose entrance. But inside? Inside is where the magic happens. This is Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop & Café, and if you haven’t been there yet, you’re missing out on more than just dessert. You’re missing a story, an experience, and a slice of pure joy.
The Origin Story
Fireman Derek’s isn’t just another bakery. It’s a symbol. Of grit, of passion, of why not?
Picture this: Derek Kaplan, a firefighter. A guy who spent his days saving lives and his nights whipping up pies for his fellow firemen. Those pies? They weren’t just appreciated—they were legendary.
People talked. Word spread. And one day, Derek asked himself, “Why not turn this love of baking into something more?” And so, he did.
It started small, like all good things do. A little pie shop in Wynwood. No corporate backing, no multimillion-dollar investors—just a guy with a passion for pie and the guts to take a leap. Today, Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop is more than just a bakery. It’s a testament to following your gut and trusting the process, no matter how unconventional it may be.
Why It Matters
Because this isn’t just pie. This is Miami in pie form. It’s creativity, it’s boldness, it’s tradition blended with innovation. It’s proof that when you put love and craft into something, people notice.
Let’s be clear: there are lots of bakeries. Lots of pies. But Fireman Derek’s? It’s not about being the best. It’s about being the only.
The Pies (AKA the Real Reason You’re Here)
Now, let’s talk about the pie. Specifically, the two that you need to try if you’re serious about this place.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
Decadent doesn’t even begin to describe it. This isn’t just a pie—it’s an experience. The creamy peanut butter filling isn’t shy. It’s bold, rich, and unapologetic. Combined with the Oreo crust and topped with Nutter Butter cookies and Ghirardelli chocolate sauce, this is a pie that doesn’t just sit on your plate—it commands attention.
You take a bite, and suddenly, nothing else matters. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you pause, savor, and then immediately regret not ordering two slices. But here’s the thing—this pie isn’t just about the taste. It’s about the texture, the balance, and the way it all comes together seamlessly. Derek didn’t just throw ingredients together. He crafted an experience.
Key Lime Pie
Voted Miami’s Best Key Lime Pie. And there’s a reason for that. This pie is Miami. Made with hand-squeezed key limes, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. The graham cracker crust? Buttery, golden, and just thick enough to hold it all together without overshadowing the filling.
One bite, and you get it. This is the pie that Miamians swear by. It’s tradition, it’s nostalgia, and it’s the kind of dessert that brings people back—again and again.
A Recipe to Bring the Magic Home
Here’s the thing—Fireman Derek’s pies are legendary, but why not try to recreate that magic at home? Here’s a recipe to give it a shot.
Fireman Derek’s Classic Key Lime Pie
Dive into the zesty, creamy delight of this Classic Key Lime Pie! Perfect for any occasion, this pie combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a tangy, smooth filling that will leave your taste buds dancing. Inspired by Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop and Cafe, this easy-to-follow recipe is a must-try for dessert lovers. Get ready to impress your guests with this timeless treat!
8
servings15
minutes20
minutes450
kcal35
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Crust
1 package (14.4 ounces) graham crackers
2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- Filling
6 large egg yolks
2 cans (14 ounces each) sweetened condensed milk
3/4 cup key lime juice
- Alternative Ingredients:
Graham crackers: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
Butter: Substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Egg yolks: Use egg replacer for a vegan alternative.
Condensed milk: Use coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free option.
Key lime juice: Regular lime juice can be used if key limes are unavailable.
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Prepare Crust – In a food processor, blend the graham crackers until finely ground. Add the melted butter and pulse until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Mix Filling – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Gradually add the key lime juice while continuing to whisk until fully incorporated.
- Assemble Pie – Pour the prepared filling into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake Pie – Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Serve – Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled with optional garnishes like whipped cream or lime slices.
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Mixing Bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- baking sheet
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 45g
- Protein: 8g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 6mg
Why You Have to Try Fireman Derek’s
Fireman Derek’s is a must because it’s not just about pie. It’s about a story, about craftsmanship, about taking something as simple as dessert and making it unforgettable. It’s the perfect marriage of tradition and creativity. It’s proof that if you care enough, if you’re willing to put in the time, people will notice.
And that’s the magic of Fireman Derek’s—where every slice is a reminder that passion, grit, and a little bit of daring can create something truly extraordinary.
So, here’s the question: Why haven’t you tried it yet?
