National Pie Day celebrates everything we love about pies—their rich history, endless creativity, and the joy of sharing a slice with loved ones. On January 23rd, pie lovers everywhere gather to honor this timeless dessert, from sweet classics like apple and cherry to savory favorites and innovative vegan creations.
In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating story of pies, explore delicious ways to celebrate, and even share some plant-based recipes that will make your kitchen smell amazing. Let’s celebrate National Pie Day together and make it a day to remember!
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A Slice of Comfort: Celebrating National Pie Day
Do you remember the comforting aroma of pies baking in the oven? The sweet scent of cinnamon and sugar mingling with buttery crusts, wafting through a warm kitchen? For many of us, it brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. On National Pie Day, we celebrate those moments—and the delicious pies that make them unique.
This annual celebration on January 23rd is more than an excuse to enjoy a slice. It’s about honoring the traditions pies carry, the creativity they inspire, and the connections they help create. Do you love a classic apple pie or prefer a modern twist like vegan chocolate avocado silk pie? This day reminds us that pies are as much about memories as they are about flavor.
In this article, we’ve included two incredible vegan pie recipes to sweeten the occasion. These recipes are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. The joy of baking and sharing these pies makes National Pie Day so unique. Ready to bake some joy? Let’s get started!
From One Man’s Love to a National Celebration
National Pie Day owes its origins to Charlie Papazian, a Colorado schoolteacher passionate about pie. In 1975, he honored his favorite dessert by declaring his birthday, January 23rd, a day for pie lovers everywhere. His creativity didn’t stop there—he even opted for birthday pies instead of cakes!
The celebration grew as word spread. By 1986, the American Pie Council joined the effort, transforming this local tribute into a nationwide event. They saw pie as more than food. It was a symbol of American heritage and a way to bring people together. Their enthusiasm even reached Hollywood. In 2014, they partnered with Paramount Pictures to feature a pie-making scene in the movie Labor Day. This collaboration cemented the day’s place in pop culture.
Today, National Pie Day is a time to celebrate a dessert that’s as American as apple pie itself. It’s a nod to tradition, a chance to share creativity, and a reminder of the joy a simple slice can bring.
A Journey Through Time: Pies Then and Now
Pies have been delighting taste buds for centuries. The first known recipes date back to ancient Rome, where people enjoyed goat cheese and honey pies. These early creations weren’t just about flavor; they also showed culinary creativity. Over time, the Greeks and Romans expanded their fillings to include fruits, meats, and seafood.
During the Middle Ages, pies took on a more practical role. Their crusts were thick and sturdy, acting as containers to keep food fresh and portable. These crusts were often inedible, but the savory fillings made up for it. Pies became a mealtime staple, proving that practicality and deliciousness could go hand in hand.
When pies came to America with English settlers, they evolved yet again. Colonists adapted their recipes to use local ingredients like pumpkins and pecans, giving rise to iconic desserts. Today, pies remain a beloved tradition. Favorites like apple and chocolate crème pies grace tables at gatherings, keeping the legacy of this timeless treat alive.
The Many Flavors of Pie: Sweet, Savory, and Beyond
Pies come in various flavors and styles, making them perfect for any occasion. From classic desserts to hearty, savory dishes and modern vegan creations, there’s genuinely a pie for everyone. Let’s explore the delicious spectrum of pies and celebrate their diversity!
A Slice of Sweet Tradition
Dessert pies are the heart and soul of many celebrations. Classics like apple pie bring a comforting nostalgia, while cherry pie balances sweetness with a tangy punch. Blueberry pies, bursting with juicy berries, offer a taste of summer in every bite. These timeless treats are as cherished today as they were generations ago.
Savory Staples Worth Savoring
While sweet pies often steal the spotlight, savory pies hold a special place in culinary history. British favorites like Shepherd’s Pie, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and Steak and Ale Pie, filled with hearty chunks of beef and rich gravy, bring satisfying flavors to the table. These savory options are perfect for adding an international flair to your pie celebrations.
Creative and Compassionate: Vegan Pies
Modern pies can cater to every dietary preference, including vegan options that don’t compromise on taste. Imagine a vegan apple pie with a perfectly flaky crust or a rich chocolate avocado pie that feels like a decadent indulgence. Vegan pies showcase how creativity and compassion can come together in one delicious dish.
Indulgent Vegan Creations: Two Must-Try Pie Recipes
Nothing says celebration like a homemade pie, and these two vegan recipes are as satisfying as they are delicious. They’re proof that plant-based baking can be both nostalgic and exciting.
Warm Cinnamon Bliss: Classic Vegan Apple Pie
This pie is pure comfort. Imagine the scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and baked apples filling your kitchen. It’s a slice of nostalgia in every bite, perfect for cozy family gatherings or quiet afternoons. Pair it with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that feels like a warm hug.
Classic Vegan Apple Pie
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup vegan butter cold, cubed
- ¼ cup ice-cold water
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, peeled and sliced
- ½ cup sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp vegan butter optional, for added richness
Instructions
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the vegan butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Divide into two discs, wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: Toss the sliced apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Let it sit while the dough chills.
- Assemble the pie: Roll out one disc of dough and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Add the apple filling and dot with vegan butter. Roll out the second disc and place it on top. Trim and crimp the edges and cut a few slits on top for ventilation.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool before slicing. Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream!
Notes
Nutrition
Silky Dream: Vegan Chocolate Avocado Silk Pie
For chocolate lovers, this pie is a revelation. Its rich, creamy filling owes its decadence to a surprising ingredient: avocados! The result is a dessert that’s velvety smooth, irresistibly indulgent, and lighter than you’d expect. Topped with fresh berries or shaved chocolate, it will wow your guests.
Vegan Chocolate Avocado Silk Pie
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups almond flour
- 3 Tbsp coconut oil melted
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate melted
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- 2 Tbsp almond milk optional, for extra creaminess
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the almond flour, coconut oil, maple syrup, and salt until it forms a crumbly mixture. Press it into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden. Let it cool.
- Make the filling: In a blender or food processor, blend the avocados, melted chocolate, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy. Add almond milk if needed for a smoother texture.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh berries, shaved chocolate, or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch. Slice and enjoy this silky, decadent pie!
Notes
Nutrition
Celebrate with a Slice: Making the Most of National Pie Day
National Pie Day is the perfect time to embrace all things pie. This celebration goes beyond enjoying a delicious slice; it’s about creating memories, sharing with others, and spreading joy. Here are some fun and meaningful ways to make this day unforgettable!
Bake It or Buy It
Get hands-on and bake your favorite pie from scratch. Rolling out dough and creating a flavorful filling can be incredibly satisfying. If baking isn’t your thing, head to a local bakery and pick up a pie to support small businesses. Either way, the reward is the same: a fresh, delectable pie ready to enjoy.
Host a Pie Party
Invite friends and family to enjoy the fun by hosting a pie party. Ask each guest to bring their favorite pie and create a pie buffet to sample everyone’s creations. You can even add a little friendly competition by voting on the crowd’s favorite pie of the day. It’s a great way to connect, laugh, and eat plenty of pie!
Pair Your Pie with Perfection
A good beverage can make a slice of pie taste even better. Pair a warm apple pie with hot coffee, or enjoy a comforting cup of tea with a cherry pie. Feeling adventurous? Try mulled wine or a spiced cider to complement rich flavors like pecan or chocolate crème. The right pairing enhances the experience and makes every bite shine.
Share the Love
Use this day to spread kindness by giving back. Donate a pie to a local charity or bring one to a neighbor who could use a little cheer. For a more significant impact, organize a pie-themed fundraiser. Gather pies from friends or local bakers, sell slices, and donate the proceeds to a good cause.
A Sweet Ending: The Magic of Pies
Pies have a way of bringing people together. They remind us of shared laughter, cozy kitchens, and moments spent with loved ones. From the ancient tables of Rome to your kitchen counter today, pies have proven their timeless appeal. On National Pie Day, we don’t just celebrate a dessert—we celebrate the memories and traditions they inspire.
Now it’s your turn to join the celebration! What’s your favorite pie memory? Do you have a go-to recipe that’s always a hit? Share your stories and ideas in the comments. Let’s make this National Pie Day a community filled with sweetness, creativity, and connection.
Expect Miracles!
Until next time,
Julene
