MAIN Home Life Cooking

Americans Love Their Pies
Apple Pie Is Still #1

When it comes to pie, does anyone need encouragement to indulge in this most American of desserts? According to a survey* by Crisco and the American Pie Council, 92 percent of Americans enjoy eating pie. In celebration of National Pie Day this January 23rd, take the opportunity to enjoy this delicious dessert; whether you go to your favorite local pastry shop or treat yourself to a slice of homemade pie with family and friends, this is the perfect day to indulge in an old favorite or even try your hand at something new.

No matter how you slice it, apple pie reigns supreme. One out of four Americans prefer apple pie, followed by pumpkin or sweet potato (17 percent), anything chocolate (14 percent), lemon meringue (11 percent) and cherry (10 percent). Nearly twice as many people prefer their pie unadorned as those who like it "a la mode," with either ice cream or whipped cream topping.

Homemade or made elsewhere? Three out of four Americans overwhelmingly prefer homemade pie, while 13 percent enjoy pie from a bakery or pastry shop, and only one percent said they head to the diner for their favorite slice.

"Whether you make it yourself, buy it at a bakery or order it at a restaurant, we hope that all Americans will warm up on this National Pie Day and enjoy this ultimate sweet comfort food," said Linda Hoskins, executive director, American Pie Council.

While New Year's resolutions may keep many people from joining the ranks of 16 percent of Americans who say they enjoy pie everyday to several times per week or month, everyone should make room for pie this National Pie Day.

To celebrate National Pie Day, Crisco recognizes home bakers from around the country, selecting five winners in its All-American Pie Recipe Contest. Each one wins a trip to the Great American Pie Festival in Celebration, Florida, where they compete with other bakers from around the country in the American Pie Council/Crisco National Pie Championships for a chance to win the grand prize and national pie making title.

"Undoubtedly, pie is a dessert that holds a special place at every family table," said Brenda Dempsey, director of communications, The J.M. Smucker Company. "We are proud of the role Crisco has played for generations in helping bakers everywhere create not only the perfect pie crust, but also sweet family memories."

For winning pie recipes and information on National Pie Day and the Great American Pie Festival, visit www.piecouncil.org.

Also see-> Apple Pie Recipes | Pumpkin Pie Recipes