When There is Pumpkin, Apple and Cherry Pie on Thanksgiving, Which is the Most Popular?
The traditional Thanksgiving dessert is often a pumpkin pie, closely followed by apple pie. While cherry pie is also a beloved choice, it's less common on Thanksgiving tables. This decision often presents a challenge for dessert enthusiasts, especially those torn between their favorite flavors.
Common Dessert Preferences Across the US
Across the United States, pumpkin and apple pies are the two most popular choices during Thanksgiving. According to various surveys and polls, pumpkin pie reigns supreme. However, the preference can vary within families. For instance, my mother-in-law was renowned for her pies, making either pumpkin or sweet potato pecan, with cherry being a distant third. My father's all-time favorite was mincemeat pie, although the traditional version is fruit-based, making it less appealing to younger family members.
The Demographics Speak: National Statistics
A report from Spoon University suggests that approximately 50 million pumpkin pies will be consumed on Thanksgiving alone. This statistic aligns with my family's long-standing tradition of having both pumpkin and apple pies for over 50 years. Sometimes, to cater to individual tastes, I would bring my favorite cherry pie to complement these two classics.
Family Traditions and Personal Favorites
Our family's tradition has always revolved around pumpkin and apple pies, but with a twist. While we love these traditional flavors, we also experiment with new and innovative desserts. This year, I am the dessert provider, and I have decided to opt for a butternut squash pie. It offers a richer flavor profile than pumpkin pie and is sure to satisfy the pickiest of palettes. Additionally, we will serve a pecan pie, a classic that everyone looks forward to, and tarte tatin, which is a heartwarming dessert made with apples. To ensure that it adheres to our kosher dietary requirements, I am experimenting with a buttermless puff pastry for the first time.
Conclusion
Whether it's the creamy and sweet pumpkin pie, the crisp and tart apple pie, or the bright, tangy cherry pie, the choice of dessert on Thanksgiving is often a matter of personal preference and family tradition. For me, the best part of Thanksgiving isn't just the meal itself but also the dessert lineup that reflects our collective tastes and unique baking skills.