Why is Apple Pie the Iconic American Dessert? | Linda's Bakery - (608) 786-1818 (2024)

As the “most popular pie in America,” nearly 30% of Americans say thatapple pie is their favoritetype of pie.

With such widespread popularity, it’s clear that apple pie holds a special place in American culture. So, where did this iconic dessert come from, and how did it become such a beloved part of American cuisine?

Imagine savoring a warm, flaky slice of apple pie while learning about its origins and how it came to symbolize American patriotism.

Let’s learn more about the history ofapple pie. Then, come on down and see us to try our delectable apple pie for yourself and indulge in an American tradition.

Why is Apple Pie the Iconic American Dessert? | Linda's Bakery - (608) 786-1818 (1)

The History of Apple Pie

The origins of pie can be traced back to Ancient Egypt, whose crusts only held fillings instead of being eaten. These crusts, also known as “coffins,” were later spread to Europe by the Romans.

The fillings for these early pies were often savory, made with meat or vegetables. Sweet pies filled with fruit did not gain widespread popularity until much later.

Although apple pie as we know it today may not have originated in the United States, the fruit itself has a long history here. European colonists first brought apples to North America from central Asia and the Middle East.

As early as the 17th century, apple trees were planted in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. As a result, apple orchards quickly became a common sight in the colonies.

In the late 18th century, Dutch immigrants introduced apple preservation techniques. This is a big part of what led to apple pie’s popularity in America. In addition, the flaky pastry crust that is now a hallmark of the dessert was introduced by German immigrants.

Years later, 1796 saw the publication of “American Cookery,” thefirst American cookbook, which included a recipe for apple pie.

At Linda’s Bakery, we use only the freshest ingredients to create ourmouthwatering apple pies. We believe in honoring tradition and adding our own personal touch to every pie we bake.

Apple Pie and American Patriotism

Apple pie is traditionally associated with American patriotism and national identity. During World War II, soldiers famously claimed they were fighting for “mom and apple pie.” Since then, apple pie has become a symbol of family and home for many Americans.

Despite its reputation as a purely American dish, apple pie has been influenced by several cultures and traditions. The English were the first to create a recipe for apple pie. The Dutch and Germans both played a role in its development in the United States. Additionally, many staples of American cuisine, such as the hamburger and macaroni and cheese, have their roots in other countries.

This diversity is part of what makes apple pie such a fitting symbol for America. It represents the melting pot of cultures and influences that have shaped our country.

Experience a Taste of American History WithYour Local Pie Bakery

Due to its long and rich history in the US, apple pie has become an iconic American dessert. For a taste of this beloved American classic,stop by Linda’s Bakeryand try one of our delicious apple pies.

However, weoffermore than just pies! We’re known locally in West Salem, WI, for all different types of desserts. Whether you’researching online for a pie bakery, donut bakery, or a cupcake bakery, we’ve got you covered. Are you cravingtraditional breads and buns, or are you looking to mix things up with a cupcake bakery? Either way, we have the perfectdessert for you.

Why is Apple Pie the Iconic American Dessert? | Linda's Bakery - (608) 786-1818 (2024)

FAQs

Why is Apple Pie the Iconic American Dessert? | Linda's Bakery - (608) 786-1818? ›

In the late 18th century, Dutch immigrants introduced apple preservation techniques. This is a big part of what led to apple pie's popularity in America. In addition, the flaky pastry crust that is now a hallmark of the dessert was introduced by German immigrants.

Why do Americans think apple pie is American? ›

Easy and affordable, apple pie was a typical American cuisine by the 18th and 19th centuries. But, as Food52 reports, it didn't become associated with our cultural identity until the 20th, when advertising, news, and two world wars transformed the dish into a nationalist symbol.

What is the significance of the apple pie? ›

Apple pie became emblematic of a very specific American ideal: wholesome, hearty, pure, and noble. This symbolism also carried the implication that the dish itself is native to the United States, a mindset that echoes a tradition of willful ignorance of white colonialism.

Why is pie so popular in America? ›

Pie eaters traced their love of the dish back to the founding fathers—a particular pumpkin pie recipe credited to the Adams family was said by the Kansas City Star to have “raised a well-fed race of jurists, scholars, orators and Presidents”—and still further back to the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

What does the phrase "as American as apple pie" mean? ›

very typical and normal in America: He defended his driving, saying "fast cars are as American as apple pie." Diverse families are now becoming as American as apple pie.

What is the national dessert of the United States of America? ›

The Delicacy Apple Pie - is the Official “National dessert of the United States of America” respectively. American Apple Pies are also sometimes considered the national dishes of the US.

Is pie an American dessert? ›

Although borrowed from English cuisine, pies have over generations been adapted by American cooks to the ingredients and culture of the United States.

What is a fun fact about apple pie? ›

The origin of apple pie is about 600 hundred years ago in England. There was a recipe for it printed and the list of ingredients included apples, spices, dried fruits like raisins and pastry. The earliest apple pie recipes omitted one key ingredient – and that's sugar.

What was the original purpose of pie? ›

The Romans took the concept of pies even further. They would make a pastry of flour, oil and water to cover up meat but this was intended to preserve the juices and flavour of the filling and was not intended to be eaten. A Roman cookbook from the 1st Century, called Apicius, mentions recipes that include pie cases.

What are apple pie values? ›

Apple Pie
  • Calories 296.
  • Total Fat 14g 18%
  • Saturated Fat 4.7g 24%
  • Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g.
  • Monounsaturated Fat 5.5g.
  • Cholesterol 0mg 0%
  • Sodium 251mg 11%
  • Total Carbohydrates 43g 16%

Why do people like apple pies? ›

The smell and taste of apple pie can remind people of their childhood, family traditions, and happy memories. Comfort Food: Many people associate apple pie with comfort food, which is food that provides a sense of emotional well-being and comfort.

What is the number 1 pie in America? ›

Apple. There are five states they prefer apple pie to other flavors. Apples came to the United States with Europeans. Apple pie has English origins, according to Smithsonian magazine, but the dessert is an American classic.

What percentage of Americans like apple pie? ›

The good news for pie-makers is that majorities of Americans would either love or like to have most of the pies served, but there are clear favorites: 82% of Americans would love or like apple pie while 70% feel the same way about pumpkin pie.

Why is apple pie important to American culture? ›

Apple pie is traditionally associated with American patriotism and national identity. During World War II, soldiers famously claimed they were fighting for “mom and apple pie.” Since then, apple pie has become a symbol of family and home for many Americans.

What do apples symbolize in America? ›

Throughout time, apples have been revered by cultures around the world. In various mythologies, apples are used as a symbol of love, beauty, and wisdom.

Why American Pie is called American Pie? ›

The film's title refers to a scene in which the protagonist is caught masturbating with a pie after being told that third base feels like "warm apple pie". Herz has stated that the title also refers to the quest of losing one's virginity in high school, which is as "American as apple pie."

Why American pie is called American pie? ›

The film's title refers to a scene in which the protagonist is caught masturbating with a pie after being told that third base feels like "warm apple pie". Herz has stated that the title also refers to the quest of losing one's virginity in high school, which is as "American as apple pie."

What country did apple pie originate from? ›

What kind of pie is considered most American? ›

The most popular variety in the US is probably apple pie à la mode, invented in Minnesota in 1885, and served with a scoop of ice cream on top. Regardless of the regional varieties and endless debates, apple pie is an American dessert like no other, best paired with a sweet Riesling wine.

What is the national dish of the United States of America? ›

The United States does not officially have a designated national dish, but hamburgers and Apple Pie are unofficial national dishes of USA due to their popularity and widespread consumption across the country. Hamburger is the most popular dish in America due to its popularity.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Tuan Roob DDS

Last Updated:

Views: 5272

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (62 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Tuan Roob DDS

Birthday: 1999-11-20

Address: Suite 592 642 Pfannerstill Island, South Keila, LA 74970-3076

Phone: +9617721773649

Job: Marketing Producer

Hobby: Skydiving, Flag Football, Knitting, Running, Lego building, Hunting, Juggling

Introduction: My name is Tuan Roob DDS, I am a friendly, good, energetic, faithful, fantastic, gentle, enchanting person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.