Apple pie is a delicious symbol of the American dream and the patriotic feelings that come with it. But, the first apple pies were made in 14th century England, and the English and other Europeans enjoyed them for centuries before anyone ever made them on American soil. So then, why do Americans serve apple pies at Independence Day cookouts rather than truly American pies like pecan pie or Boston cream pie? Its about what the apple pie represents rather than its origin.
By the 1600s, international trade brought apple trees to the colonies, and it was common for colonial farmers to raise orchards. In the early 1800s, John Chapman began to create apple nurseries across the East Coast, planting the seeds for the myth of Johnny Appleseed to take hold of the nation. By the 1870s, stories about Appleseed popped up, painting him as a kind and earnest character who spread apples through the United States with grit and tenacity. Easier access to local apples and feelings of national pride made apple pie a staple in America.
In a patriotic letter to the New York Times in 1902, one reader wrote, “Pie is the American synonym of prosperity… pie is the food of the heroic.” During World War II, the pie was used as a symbol to motivate soldiers to embrace American patriotism. Around this time, the phrase “as American as apple pie” gained popularity, and the apple pie has remained a symbol of American freedom ever since.
Hey there, folks! If you’ve ever heard someone say somethin’ is “as American as apple pie,” you mighta wondered, what’s the big deal with this dessert? Why’s it tied to the red, white, and blue? Well, I’m here to spill the beans—or should I say, slice the pie—on this iconic saying. Straight up, it means somethin’ is quintessentially American, rooted deep in the culture and traditions of this land. Apple pie ain’t just a sweet treat; it’s a symbol of home, comfort, and national pride. But there’s a whole lotta story behind it, from its not-so-American origins to its place at our holiday tables. So, grab a fork (or just keep readin’), and let’s dig into what this saying really means and why it sticks with us.
The Heart of the Saying: “As American as Apple Pie”
Let’s cut to the chase. The saying “as American as apple pie” is all about describin’ somethin’ that feels pure, traditional, and tied to the U.S. of A. Think of it like callin’ a cowboy hat or a baseball game a piece of Americana—it’s just part of the vibe. When we say this, we’re talkin’ about values like family, hard work, and that cozy feelin’ of a home-cooked meal. Apple pie, with its flaky crust and sweet fillin’, somehow became the poster child for these ideas.
But why pie? Why not say, hot dogs or burgers? Well apple pie’s got a special kinda magic. It’s been around forever, showin’ up at picnics, Thanksgivin’ dinners, and Fourth of July barbecues. It’s the dessert your grandma mighta baked, the one that fills the house with that cinnamon-sweet smell. Over time, it got wrapped up in this image of the “American Dream”—simple, wholesome, and full of heart. So, when someone says “as American as apple pie,” they’re sayin’ it’s as classic and beloved as this dessert is to us.
Where Did Apple Pie Even Come From? Spoiler: Not Here!
Now hold up a sec—before we get all patriotic let’s get real. Apple pie ain’t originally from the States. I know, mind blown, right? If we’re talkin’ history, this tasty dish actually hails from way across the pond. Think England, way back in the 1300s, where folks were already scribblin’ down recipes for pies stuffed with apples and spices. They weren’t the only ones either—places like France and the Netherlands had their own spins on fruit-filled pastries, influenced by all sorts of culinary traditions from around Europe and even further.
Back then, apples weren’t even growin’ wild in North America. The only kind here were crab apples, tiny and sour as heck, barely worth eatin’. It wasn’t until European settlers rolled in, bringin’ their apple trees and baking know-how, that the pie as we know it started takin’ shape on this continent. Even the stuff that goes into it—like wheat for the crust, or spices like cinnamon from far-off lands—came from elsewhere. So, apple pie’s more of a global mash-up than a homegrown hero.
When settlers brought it over, though, it caught on quick. By the 1700s and 1800s, it was a staple in households across the colonies. They’d use whatever apples they could grow, mix ‘em with sugar or molasses, and bake ‘em up in wood-fired ovens. It was cheap, easy to whip up, and fed a crowd—perfect for a growin’ nation. But it still wasn’t seen as “American” just yet. That part comes later, and boy, does it got a story.
How’d This Saying Get Started? A Slice of History
So, how’d apple pie go from just a yummy dessert to a full-on symbol of America? That’s where things get interestin’. The phrase “as American as apple pie” didn’t pop up till round the early 1900s. Before that, it was just food, not a flag-wavin’ statement. But around the turn of the century, stuff started shiftin’. Newspapers and ads began pushin’ this idea that pie—especially apple pie—was tied to prosperity and grit. One old editorial even called it the “food of the heroic,” sayin’ no pie-eatin’ folks could ever be beat. Talk about hype!
Then came the wars—World War I and II—and that’s when things really baked up. Soldiers started sayin’ they were fightin’ for “mom and apple pie” meanin’ they were defendin’ the homeland and all its comforts. It painted this picture of a perfect simple America worth protectin’. Back home, cookbooks from wartime had recipes tweaked for rationin’, with names like “Victory Apple Pie.” It was like eatin’ a slice was a patriotic act. Heck, even politicians got in on it, with debates over which state made the best apples turnin’ into pie-offs at the Capitol. No kiddin’!
By the mid-1900s, the saying was everywhere. Ads used it to sell clothes, journalists threw it around to describe anything super American, and it just stuck. It helped that apple pie tied into this nostalgic idea of a simpler time—think farmhouses, picket fences, and mom in the kitchen. Never mind that history was way messier; the image was too darn powerful to shake.
What Apple Pie Really Stands For: More Than Just Dessert
Now, let’s get to the meat—or the fillin’—of why this saying hits so hard. Apple pie ain’t just about taste; it’s about feelin’s. For a lotta folks, includin’ me, it’s tied to memories of family. I can still picture my granny rollin’ out dough on her old wooden table, flour dustin’ everywhere, while I “helped” by sneakin’ apple slices. That smell of pie bakin’ on a chilly fall day? It’s like a hug in food form. It represents home, love, and togetherness.
But there’s a deeper layer too. See, apple pie kinda mirrors what America’s all about. It came from somewhere else, got mixed with influences from all over, and turned into somethin’ unique here. Kinda like how folks from every corner of the world landed on these shores, bringin’ their traditions, and blended ‘em into this big, messy, beautiful culture. So, when we say “as American as apple pie,” we’re sorta talkin’ about that immigrant spirit—takin’ bits from everywhere and makin’ it our own.
It’s also got this wholesome vibe, like it stands for purity and hard work. Think of old-timey paintings of farmers harvestin’ apples, or stories of pioneers bakin’ with whatever they had. It’s tied to that grit and simplicity we like to think defines us, even if the real story’s more complicated. And yeah, sometimes it’s been used in weird ways—like to push an idealized version of family or ignore tougher parts of history—but at its core, it’s about comfort and belongin’.
Apple Pie Across the Map: Different Twists, Same Love
One thing I gotta say—apple pie ain’t the same everywhere, and that’s part of its charm. Dependin’ on where you’re at, you’ll find all kinda spins on it, each with its own flair. Here’s a quick rundown of how folks do it different:
- Northeast U.S.: They’re into that Dutch-style pie with a crumbly toppin’ made of sugar and butter. It’s got a rustic feel, like somethin’ straight outta colonial days.
- Midwest: These folks go big with deep-dish pies, often with a lattice crust and extra spices like nutmeg. It’s hearty as heck, perfect for cold winters.
- Over in Europe: They’ve got their own versions too. France does a fancy upside-down pie with caramelized apples, while Germany’s got a rolled pastry stuffed with apples and raisins. Totally different, but still awesome.
Ain’t it wild how one dish can change so much dependin’ on who’s makin’ it? It shows how apple pie’s loved worldwide, not just here. And yet, we’ve claimed it as “American” through and through. Funny how that works, huh.
My Own Pie Story: Why It Means So Much
Lemme get personal for a minute. Growin’ up, apple pie was THE thing at our family gatherings. Every Thanksgivin’, my mom would stress over gettin’ the crust just right—flaky, not soggy, ya know? Me and my cousins would hover, waitin’ to lick the spoon or nab a stray piece of apple. It wasn’t just about eatin’; it was ‘bout sittin’ around the table, laughin’, sharin’ stories, and feelin’ like we belonged. That’s what the saying “as American as apple pie” brings to mind for me—those moments that glue us together.
I reckon a lotta y’all got similar tales. Maybe it’s a holiday tradition, or a random Sunday when you and your folks decided to bake just ‘cause. It’s them little things that make the saying more than words. It’s a feelin’, a memory, a slice of life. And even if your family’s pie recipe came from somewhere far off, it’s still yours, still part of your American story.
Keepin’ It Fresh: Apple Pie in Today’s World
So, where’s apple pie—and this saying—standin’ today? It’s still kickin’, that’s for sure. You’ll see it at diners, bakeries, and family tables, same as ever. But there’s new twists poppin’ up. Folks are gettin’ creative, addin’ stuff like bourbon or cranberries to the fillin’, or swappin’ out butter for healthier stuff like coconut oil. There’s even vegan versions that taste just as good, no dairy needed. It’s like the pie’s evolvin’ with us, keepin’ that old-school charm but fittin’ into modern life.
The saying, too, still gets tossed around. You might hear it in a commercial, or someone describin’ a classic American vibe. Sure, some folks poke fun at it, pointin’ out apple pie ain’t really from here, or usin’ it in a sarcastic way. But for most of us, it still carries that warm, fuzzy meanin’. It’s a reminder of what ties us together, even when the world feels all kinds of crazy.
And with bakin’ gettin’ easier—think online recipes, fancy tools, and pre-made crusts if you’re in a pinch—more folks are tryin’ their hand at it. I’ve seen friends who never cooked a day in their life whip up a pie that’d make their grandma proud. It’s keepin’ the tradition alive, one messy kitchen at a time.
Why Not Bake Your Own Slice of America?
Before I wrap this up, lemme throw out a challenge. If you ain’t baked an apple pie yet, why not give it a shot? It don’t gotta be perfect—mine sure ain’t, with my lopsided crusts and all. Grab some apples (tart ones like Granny Smith work best), some sugar, a bit of cinnamon, and a basic pie dough recipe. Peel, slice, mix, and bake. The process is half the fun, ‘specially if you rope in family or friends to help. Plus, nothin’ beats that smell fillin’ up your place.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet for a basic pie, if you’re new to this:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | 6-8 medium | Peel and slice thin, tart is best |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup | Adjust if apples are super sweet |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Add a pinch of nutmeg if ya fancy |
| Pie Crust | 2 (top & bottom) | Store-bought or homemade, no shame |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Dot on top for extra richness |
Bake at 375°F for ‘bout an hour, till the crust’s golden and the fillin’ bubbles. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feelin’ extra. Trust me, one bite and you’ll get why this dessert’s got such a hold on us.
Wrappin’ Up This Pie-Tastic Tale
So, there ya have it—the lowdown on “what is the saying about apple pie.” It’s “as American as apple pie,” a phrase that captures the spirit of tradition, family, and a cultural blend that’s uniquely ours. From its roots far from these shores to its spot on our tables, apple pie’s journey mirrors the story of so many who’ve made this country home. It’s more than food; it’s a symbol of comfort, nostalgia, and the little things that make life sweet.
Next time you hear someone use that saying, or you’re diggin’ into a slice yourself, think ‘bout the layers—pun intended—of history and meanin’ behind it. And hey, if you’ve got a pie story of your own, I’d love to hear it. Drop a comment or just keep the tradition goin’ by bakin’ with someone you love. After all, ain’t nothin’ more American than sharin’ a piece of pie and a good laugh.
The European origins of apple pie
One of the earliest recorded English recipes for fruit pie containing apples comes from the 14th century. But people likely made fruit pies for years before this, with recipes being orally maintained rather than written. Early English apple pies did not look or taste like the ones we know today. One of the first English apple pie recipes, for example, calls for apples, raisins, pears, figs, saffron, and spices, but does not call for any sugar. The crust was also more similar to a container than a part of the pie. The English served these early fruit pies in a coffin crust — a tough, almost inedible dough or crust used to cook the contents rather than be eaten.
Pie recipes eventually evolved to include sweeteners like sugar, with the first American cookbook from 1796, “American Cookery,” calling for sugar and rose water. The crust, as well, evolved, with Dutch bakers developing the use of a sweeter, edible crust that more resembles a modern pie crust.
Why Apple Pie Isn’t American
FAQ
What is the famous quote about apple pie?
Eat, give thanks and go forth, ‘in apple-pie order !’ “ “In order to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first invent the universe.”
What does the saying “apple pie” mean?
adjective. pertaining to or embodying values perceived as traditionally American, or, more broadly, as unassailable.
What is apple pie a metaphor for?
After 1918, people started associating apple pie with the freedom and prosperity they enjoyed as Americans. When the United States joined World War II, soldiers said they were entering the war for “Mom and apple pie.” During this period, apple pie symbolized both America and motherly love.Dec 12, 2020
What does the apple pie symbolize?
Apple pie primarily symbolizes American patriotism, home, and family, stemming from its adoption as a symbol during World War II when soldiers said they were fighting for “mom and apple pie”. It also represents the cultural “melting pot” of America, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the nation’s cuisine and identity. More broadly, the phrase “as American as apple pie” signifies traditional American values like wholesomeness, purity, and comfort.
Is Apple Pie American?
Today, the U.S. is one of the world’s largest apple producers, making the apple pie very American, indeed. About 36 million Americans say apple pie is their favorite flavor, according to the American Pie Council. Chevrolet
Why is apple pie so American?
Over a period of 50 years, he bought and sold tracts of land as he headed west from his home state of Massachusetts, developing thousands of productive apple trees. Today, the U.S. is one of the world’s largest apple producers, making the apple pie very American, indeed.
What are some good apple pie quotes?
These apple pie quotes are those little reminders we all need every now and then and some are powerful enough to inspire us for the whole week. “Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first, like apple pie.” – Ernestine Ulmer “Apple pie is happiness in every slice.” – Unknown “In every apple pie, there’s a little slice of heaven.” – Unknown
What are some famous quotes about pie?
“The art of pie.” – Unknown “Applelicious moments.” – Unknown “Taste the love.” – Unknown “Life, love, pie.” – Unknown “Crust me, it’s amazing.” – Unknown “There’s nothing more American than apple pie.” – Unknown “As American as apple pie.” – Unknown “Apple pie without cheese is like a kiss without a squeeze.” – Unknown
What does apple pie symbolize?
“Apple pie is a symbol of positivity and abundance.” – Unknown “A slice of apple pie is a moment of pure positivity.” – Unknown “With apple pie, the world is a brighter and more positive place.” – Unknown “Apple pie is a recipe for spreading happiness and positivity.” – Unknown “Indulge in apple pie and soak in the positive energy it brings.”
How many Americans eat apple pie?
About 36 million Americans say apple pie is their favorite flavor, according to the American Pie Council. Chevrolet Chevrolet has been known as the iconic all-American brand of cars with a long list of memorable products — from the Roadster to the Corvette, Camaro, Tahoe and Volt.