Pumpkin vs. Apple Pie: The Thanksgiving Debate

The time for lively dinner discussions is here, and the big question looms: is it apple pie or pumpkin pie that reigns supreme during Thanksgiving?

While apple pie is often seen as a quintessential American dessert, pumpkin pie takes its turn in the spotlight during the holiday season. At the Hoosier Mama Pie Company in Chicago, apple pie is a year-long favorite. Chef and owner Paula Haney mentioned that without apple pie, chaos would ensue, making it the only pie they offer outside of peak season.

But when Thanksgiving arrives, the tides turn. “Pumpkin pie sales outperform apple pie nearly two to one during this time,” Haney noted, adding that there’s a certain excitement for pumpkin in the air.

A recent national survey backs this up. According to a YouGov poll conducted with around 10,000 Americans, 29% chose pumpkin pie while only 20% preferred apple. Pecan pie rounded out the top three with 14% of the votes.

Further evidence comes from Instacart, which reported that pumpkin pie orders surged by more than 2,600% the day before Thanksgiving, making it the top choice among holiday desserts.

Interestingly, while apple pie sees consistent interest throughout the year, flavors like pecan, sweet potato, and cherry see a spike during Thanksgiving. The preferences also shift regionally, with the South favoring sweet potatoes and pecans, whereas parts of the Midwest opt for chocolatey treats.

Haney emphasized a local pride in pumpkins, noting that around 90% of the U.S. canned pumpkin comes from Illinois. This adds a sentimental touch for many Chicagoans.

Jason Smith, a chef from Kentucky and Food Network personality, highlighted that pumpkin pie often evokes feelings of nostalgia rather than just the flavor itself. “Most people aren’t fans of the texture, but it’s a must-have—it feels incomplete without it,” he mentioned.

However, it seems that pumpkin has its loyal fans too. Haney shared that even in the off-season, people request pumpkin pie and are enthusiastic about pumpkin-flavored treats. “In July, we still get pumpkin pie requests. Muffins, bread, scones—you name it,” she said.

Haney also pointed out that pumpkins are not just limited to pies. Her bakery creates a variety of pumpkin-based delicacies, including chiffon pies and pumpkin cheesecakes. Smith added that variations like pecan pumpkin pie and caramel apple have gained traction.

When it comes to baking, both chefs suggested that good pies have well-cooked fillings with distinct textures—apples should be soft yet a bit chewy, while pumpkin should be creamy and smooth. They also gave tips for pie crusts, recommending to prepare them ahead of time and carefully control the cooling process to avoid cracks.

Haney has a soft spot for sweet potato pie but ensures both pumpkin and apple grace her table on holidays. “You really can’t celebrate without both,” she noted with a smile.

For Smith, dessert looks pretty extravagant this year. When asked if pies would be a part of his feast, he exclaimed, “Absolutely!” followed by a list of decadent options, including Cinnamon Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie and Creamy Cheesecake Pumpkin Pie.