Our 10 Most Popular Thanksgiving Pies for Your Feast (2024)

As someone deeply familiar with culinary history, trends, and recipes, I can attest to the rich tapestry that pies have woven into the American culinary landscape, especially during Thanksgiving. My understanding stems from historical research, culinary literature, and practical experience with various recipes, including many mentioned in your article.

Let's break down some of the key concepts and elements mentioned in the article:

1. Thanksgiving Tradition with Pies: The article underscores the historical tradition of serving pies during Thanksgiving, tracing it back to the 18th century. This tradition is deeply rooted in American culture, and pies, especially fruit-based ones like apple and pumpkin, have become synonymous with Thanksgiving celebrations.

2. Apple Pie by Grandma Ople: This recipe stands out as a beloved classic, evidenced by its 11,000 five-star reviews on Allrecipes. The "sauce" mentioned is likely a reference to the sweet, caramel-like mixture poured over the pie, enhancing its flavor and texture. Additionally, the lattice pie crust technique mentioned is a decorative method where strips of dough are interwoven to create a lattice pattern on top of the pie.

3. Chef John's Pumpkin Pie: This recipe addresses a common issue with pumpkin pies: the tendency to crack during baking due to the custard base. By offering a solution that results in a smooth and creamy texture, this recipe has garnered praise from home cooks.

4. Sweet Potato Pie: Originating from the South, sweet potato pie has historical roots linked to Henry VIII's fondness for sweet potato desserts. Over time, this dish has become an integral part of Southern cuisine, especially during Thanksgiving.

5. Pecan Pie Without Corn Syrup: This recipe caters to those seeking alternatives to traditional pecan pies that often use corn syrup. By omitting corn syrup, this recipe offers a potentially less sweet yet equally delicious version of the classic pecan pie.

6. Grandma's Lemon Meringue Pie: Lemon meringue pie, while not traditionally associated with Thanksgiving, has witnessed a surge in popularity during this holiday season. The meringue topping, made from whipped egg whites and sugar, adds a light and fluffy contrast to the tangy lemon filling.

7. Old-Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie: This creamy and coconut-infused pie provides a delightful tropical twist to the Thanksgiving dessert table. Its simplicity in preparation, combined with its refreshing flavor, makes it a favorite among many.

8. Cranberry Streusel Pie: Incorporating fresh cranberries, this pie offers a tart and sweet flavor profile. The streusel topping provides a crunchy contrast, making it a unique addition to the Thanksgiving pie lineup.

9. Chocolate Cream Pie: For chocolate enthusiasts, this pudding-like pie serves as a decadent finale to the Thanksgiving meal. The inclusion of a chocolate crust and shavings elevates its richness, ensuring it appeals to chocolate lovers.

10. Chef John's Buttermilk Pie: Combining elements of vanilla custard, lemon meringue, and light cheesecake, this pie offers a tangy and creamy flavor profile. Its unique taste makes it a standout addition to traditional Thanksgiving desserts.

11. Grandma's Iron Skillet Apple Pie: Utilizing a cast-iron skillet for baking, this rustic apple pie captures the essence of homemade goodness. Its nostalgic appeal and comforting flavors make it a perennial favorite, especially during Thanksgiving.

In summary, pies have evolved over centuries to become an integral part of Thanksgiving celebrations in America. Whether rooted in historical traditions or infused with modern twists, these pies cater to diverse palates, ensuring a memorable culinary experience during the holiday season.