A Sweet Slice of Tradition
Every February 20th, dessert lovers across the country have a delicious reason to celebrate—National Cherry Pie Day! This delightful holiday honors one of America’s most iconic desserts, a pastry so rich in flavor and history that it deserves its own day of recognition. Whether you like it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or straight from the fridge in the middle of the night (we won’t judge), cherry pie is the sweet, tangy treat that has stolen hearts for generations.
A Brief History of Cherry Pie
The origins of cherry pie stretch back centuries, long before it became a staple of American comfort food. The first recorded cherry pies can be traced to the early English settlers, who brought their love of fruit-filled pastries with them to the New World. The earliest pies were quite different from what we enjoy today—colonial bakers often used thick, inedible crusts called “coffins” (not as ominous as they sound) to simply hold the filling while it baked.
Cherries, native to both Europe and Asia, arrived in North America thanks to early explorers who planted cherry trees along their routes. By the time George Washington allegedly took an axe to a cherry tree (a story that may or may not be completely made up), cherries were already well on their way to becoming an American favorite. Early American settlers cultivated cherry trees, and by the 1800s, cherry pies were gracing dinner tables across the country, often served at community gatherings and family feasts.
Cherry pie grew in popularity alongside the development of the American Midwest, where cherry orchards flourished in states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Washington. As cherry production increased, so did the dessert’s fame. During the early 20th century, cherry pie became synonymous with American home cooking, appearing in recipe books, diners, and bake sales nationwide. It wasn’t just a sweet treat; it was a reflection of resourcefulness and tradition.
By the 19th and 20th centuries, cherry pie had cemented itself in American culture, showing up at state fairs, on family dinner tables, and even in pop culture references. (Cue Warrant’s Cherry Pie playing in the background.) Today, cherry pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of tradition, nostalgia, and, let’s be honest, an excuse to eat more pie.
The origins of cherry pie stretch back centuries, long before it became a staple of American comfort food. The first recorded cherry pies can be traced to the early English settlers, who brought their love of fruit-filled pastries with them to the New World. The earliest pies were quite different from what we enjoy today—colonial bakers often used thick, inedible crusts called “coffins” (not as ominous as they sound) to simply hold the filling while it baked.
Cherries, native to both Europe and Asia, arrived in North America thanks to early explorers who planted cherry trees along their routes. By the time George Washington allegedly took an axe to a cherry tree (a story that may or may not be completely made up), cherries were already well on their way to becoming an American favorite.
By the 19th and 20th centuries, cherry pie had cemented itself in American culture, showing up at state fairs, on family dinner tables, and even in pop culture references. (Cue Warrant’s Cherry Pie playing in the background.) Today, cherry pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of tradition, nostalgia, and, let’s be honest, an excuse to eat more pie.
Fun Ways to Celebrate National Cherry Pie Day
National Cherry Pie Day is the perfect excuse to embrace your love for this delicious dessert and share it with others. Whether you're a seasoned baker, a pie connoisseur, or just someone looking for an excuse to eat more sweets, there are countless ways to celebrate. This day is all about indulgence, creativity, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life—one slice at a time. So, grab a fork, loosen your belt, and get ready to honor cherry pie in all its glory!
Not sure how to honor this glorious occasion? Here are some ways to indulge in cherry-filled goodness:
- Bake Your Own Cherry Pie: Whether you go the homemade route with fresh cherries or opt for a store-bought filling (we won’t tell), baking your own pie is a surefire way to celebrate.
- Host a Cherry Pie Tasting Party: Invite your fellow pie lovers over for a taste test—homemade vs. store-bought, classic vs. modern variations. May the best crust win!
- Sing Along to ‘Cherry Pie’ by Warrant: Because what better way to pay tribute to this dessert than with a rock anthem?
- Hold a Pie-Eating Contest: Nothing says dedication like stuffing your face with as much cherry pie as possible in record time.
- Share Your Pie on Social Media: Show off your baking (or eating) skills and use #NationalCherryPieDay to spread the love.
Fun Cherry Pie Facts
Cherry pie isn't just delicious—it's got a history as rich as its filling! From record-breaking pies to surprising cultural connections, there’s more to this dessert than meets the eye. Here are some fun facts to sweeten your knowledge of this beloved treat.
- The world’s largest cherry pie weighed over 39,000 pounds and was baked in Michigan in 1987. That’s a lot of cherries!
- While many assume apple pie is the most American dessert, cherry pie often battles for the top spot in patriotic desserts, thanks in part to its association with George Washington.
- The phrase “as easy as pie” doesn’t refer to baking—it actually refers to how easy pie is to eat!
- In the early 20th century, cherry pie was often served as a breakfast dish rather than a dessert. That’s right—people used to start their day with pie, and frankly, we should bring that back!
- Cherry pie has made numerous pop culture appearances, from classic Americana imagery to famous TV shows like Twin Peaks, where Special Agent Dale Cooper made cherry pie and coffee an iconic duo.
- NASA astronauts have taken cherry pie-flavored space food on missions, proving that even in zero gravity, the craving for a slice of pie persists.
Why Cherry Pie Deserves the Spotlight
Cherry pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of history, a cultural icon, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you prefer yours homemade, from a bakery, or straight from a can, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this sweet, tart, buttery slice of perfection. So on National Cherry Pie Day, raise your fork, take a bite, and celebrate the simple joy of a classic dessert done right.
And if you happen to eat an extra slice or two? Don’t worry—calories consumed in celebration don’t count. Or so we like to believe. 😉
Happy National Cherry Pie Day!
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