The combination of cheese and apple pie, while seemingly unconventional, has sparked culinary debates and regional preferences. This article delves into the origins, prevalence, and contrasting perspectives surrounding this unique food pairing.
Origins and Regional Variations
The practice of topping apple pie with cheese traces its roots back to England, where both cheddar cheese and apple pie originated. In the 17th and 18th centuries, dairy-based sauces were commonly used as pie toppings, and cheddar cheese eventually emerged as a popular choice.
This tradition later spread to North America, where it gained traction in the Northeast (particularly New England) and Midwest, regions known for dairy production and apple cultivation. However, in the South, cheese on apple pie never gained widespread acceptance.
Reasons for the Southern Disdain
Southerners have strong culinary preferences and traditions, and cheese on apple pie simply does not align with their palate. Instead, they favor ice cream or whipped cream as toppings for their beloved apple pie.
Cultural and Historical Influences
The aversion to cheese on apple pie in the South can be attributed to cultural and historical factors. Southerners have a long-standing tradition of serving fruit and cheese separately, rather than combining them in a single dish.
Alternative Toppings
In the South, apple pie is typically enjoyed with a variety of toppings, including:
- Ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Streusel topping
The combination of cheese and apple pie remains a regional delicacy, enjoyed primarily in the Northeast and Midwest. While it may seem like an unusual pairing to some, it has a rich history and loyal following in certain parts of the world.
Additional Information
-
Prevalence in Other Countries: Cheese on apple pie is also enjoyed in parts of England, Canada, and Australia.
-
Possible Explanations: Food historians speculate that the cheese-apple pie pairing may have originated from the practice of serving cheese with fruit and nuts at the end of meals to aid digestion.
-
Modern Interpretations: Some modern chefs are experimenting with new and innovative ways to incorporate cheese into apple pie, such as using goat cheese or blue cheese in the filling.
Why is Cheese on Apple Pie A Thing?
FAQ
Where did putting cheese on apple pie originate?
What state eats apple pie with cheese?
How common is cheese on apple pie?
Is it illegal to sell apple pie without cheese in Wisconsin?
Why is cheese served with Apple Pie?
Cheese, specifically sharp cheddar, has been served with apple pie in the U.S. as early as the 1800s. But the combination was likely born in England in the 17 th century; a tradition of using dairy-based sauces in pies evolved into an affinity for topping pie with cheese instead.
Where did cheese & apple pie come from?
The cheese-apple pie connection traces back to England, where both cheddar and apple pie are said to have originated. In the 17th and 18th centuries, a dairy-based sauce often topped English pies, such as custard. Somehow, some folks decided to try out cheddar along the way, and the rest was history.
Can You Eat Cheese on Apple Pie?
There is even a practice of pouring just a bit of ice cold heavy cream onto a slice, and of course considering whipped cream as an option requires no explanation. As far as cheese on apple pie is concerned, it’s never quite stuck in the Southern states. Why Do People Eat Cheese On Apple Pie?
Do apples & Cheddar eat a pie?
In the South, apples and cheddar may be companions on a cheese board, but the two rarely meet when it comes to pie. While we’re not ones to turn down a dessert, we’re certainly not quite accustomed to the unique delicacy.