Yangjae pie shop, loaded nut & kabocha pie box: Hodu Kkakki Brothers

I was looking for a dessert to go with a cup of coffee lately, so I finally stopped by Hodu Kkakki Brothers (호두까기형제) near Yangjae Station again after a long while.

I used to go here all the time. I'm always happy with it, so I often buy pies as gifts or as snacks for home. This time I took home the mixed pie box, which lets you try several flavors at once, and it didn't let me down.

What is Hodu Kkakki Brothers near Yangjae Station like?

Hodu Kkakki Brothers is a pie shop in Dogok-dong, near Yangjae Station, and it's already well known as a pie spot. As you step up to the front, the nutty scent of butter and freshly baked pie drifts out, so it's hard to just walk past.

It isn't a big shop, but it's neatly kept, so I enjoy looking around every time I visit.

Can you pick your own flavors in the Hodu Kkakki Brothers mixed pie box?

What I picked this time was the mixed pie box. It's one of the most satisfying options because you get to taste several kinds at once. Beyond the set assortment, you can ask the owner and choose things like cream pie or nut pie, and since I've been so many times lately, I just pick out the flavors I like ^^

How generous are the toppings on the nut pie?

The moment I opened the box, the first thing I noticed was the generous pile of nuts. Even compared with ordinary pies, the topping is really plentiful, and it looks luxurious just sitting there.

Walnuts, almonds, pecans and more are piled on without holding back, so every bite was full of nutty flavor. The nuts keep their chewy texture and pair nicely with the sweet filling, so it went really well with coffee.

What I liked especially is that at Hodu Kkakki Brothers the nuts aren't just decoration. They feel like the star that drives the flavor of the whole pie.

How does the Hodu Kkakki Brothers kabocha pie taste?

Personally, one of my favorites at Hodu Kkakki Brothers is the kabocha pie, and once again it beat my expectations. The natural sweetness of the pumpkin comes through strongly without ever being overwhelming. It isn't just artificially sweet; the real flavor of the pumpkin is alive, and it grows on you the more you eat.

The inside is moist and soft, while the pie crust is pleasantly crisp, so the textures balance well. One bite fills your mouth with the nutty sweetness of pumpkin, followed by a faint butter flavor, and it was really satisfying. I thought parents and older relatives would enjoy it too, so it would make a good gift.

Another plus of the mixed box is being able to alternate between flavors. If you buy just one, you might tire of it quickly, but with several kinds together it's fun to pick whichever suits your mood. Each has a distinct character, yet the rich Hodu Kkakki Brothers flavor comes through in all of them.

What is the gift packaging like?

You can't talk about Hodu Kkakki Brothers without mentioning the packaging. The box itself is quite elegant and neatly made, so I think the person receiving it would be happy too. I can see why so many people buy it for holidays, housewarmings, office snacks and thank-you gifts.

How I store the mixed pies at home

Whenever I buy the mixed pie box, I freeze it one slice at a time and cut off a little for a snack whenever I'm hungry. Even though I live far away, prepping it this way is super convenient and great ^^

If you're looking for a good pie shop near Yangjae Station, I'd recommend the mixed pies from Hodu Kkakki Brothers. It was a satisfying takeout, with the rich flavor of plenty of nutty toppings alongside the soft, sweet charm of the kabocha pie.

It's good as a gift and good with coffee at home, so if you're nearby, I recommend stopping in once.