Apple Pie

Thanksgiving and the New England Pie:
Apple Pie

Apples are not native to North America. They have, however, been cultivated from antiquity in Europe. During the 17th century, over 200 varieties of apples were being grown in England. Cooked apples were preferred to raw for eating, and apple pie was very popular.

Soon after their arrival in America, the English colonists planted apples. These new orchards were producing fruit as early as the 1630s. Apples were dried, stewed, jellied, used in cider, and baked in pies.

"As the day approaches, the bustling within doors is greatly increased. Minced pies, apple-pies, pumpkin-pies, custards, cranberry-tarts, and the whole array of pastry and preserves, protected from dust and flies by white linen napkins, take the places on the long shelves of the wonted shining pewter."

Sketches of New England,
or Memories of the Country
by John Carver, 1842.

Click HERE for 2 recipes for Apple Pie from 1796

Click HERE for an 1855 recipe for "Excellent" Apple Pie

"We are fond of pies and tarts. We cry for pie when we are infants. Pie in countless varieties waits upon us through life. Pie kills us finally…
How can a person with a pound of apples and fat dough in his stomach feel at ease?"

"Concerning Restaurants" by C.W. Gesner in Harper’s New Monthly Magazine, 1866.

Pick your pie!

Click HERE for Pumpkin Pie

Click HERE for Mince Meat Pie

Click HERE for Cranberry Tart