National Pie Pie Day

Slice of pie being shared between generations, picnic setting, vibrant summer clothing, sunflowers in the background..
National pie pie day illustration

Ah, National Pie Pie Day! A true celebration of the pie-llowship that brings loved ones together over a flaky crust and delicious filling. Get ready to dig in as we explore the internet history and actual origins of this tasty holiday.

When is Pie Pie Day?

It's national pie pie day on the 23rd January.


The Internet History of National Pie Pie Day

When it comes to pie, the internet proudly wears its love on its sleeve. With 91 online mentions and the most buzz on January 23, 2018, it's clear that this delightful dessert has captured the hearts and taste buds of netizens from around the globe.

While the exact origins of National Pie Pie Day may remain a mystery, the internet has embraced this day as a time to indulge in double the pie deliciousness. It's a glorious occasion that pays homage to the art of baking pies, celebrating slices of joy, and sharing them with family and friends.

From savory pot pies to sweet fruit pies, National Pie Pie Day encourages pie enthusiasts to get creative and whip up their favorite recipes. Whether you're a fan of classic apple pie, cheeky chicken pot pie, or adventurous bacon pie (yes, that's a thing), this day is all about embracing the gooey, golden goodness of pie in all its flaky glory.

The Actual National History of this Day

While the internet may have adopted National Pie Pie Day as its own, there isn't an official national recognition for this particular holiday. However, that doesn't stop pie lovers from coming together to celebrate and enjoy this culinary delight.

The tradition of baking pies has been around for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt and the Greeks. Early pies were often savory, filled with meat and vegetables, and covered in a simple dough. As time went on, pies evolved, becoming a beloved dessert in many cultures around the world.

Nowadays, pies come in all shapes, sizes, and flavors. From pumpkin and pecan to key lime and chocolate silk, there's a pie for every palate. And let's not forget the classic pizza pie, a favorite among sports fans and late-night snackers everywhere.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the oldest known pie recipe dates back to ancient Rome? It was a recipe for a rye-crusted goat cheese and honey pie. Talk about a blast from the past! So, the next time you sink your teeth into a slice of pie, remember that you're continuing a delicious tradition that has stood the test of time.



History behind the term 'Pie Pie'


1840

The birth of pie pie

The term 'pie pie' originated in 1840 when it was first used as a colloquial expression to describe a delicious pastry dessert. The exact origin of the term is unclear, but it is believed to have been inspired by the onomatopoeic sound of the word 'pie' being repeated twice for emphasis.


1892

The Birth of Pie Pie

In the year 1892, the term 'pie pie' was coined as a playful term to describe a delectable dessert. It originated from the English language, where 'pie' refers to a baked dish filled with sweet or savory ingredients. The repetition of the word 'pie' in 'pie pie' was likely used to emphasize the deliciousness and indulgence associated with this particular type of pie.


1706

Emergence of Pie Crusts

In 1706, the term 'pie pie' originated from the emergence of pie crusts. Pie crusts, composed of flour, fat, and liquid, became popular in European cuisine. These crusts were used to encase various fillings and were often sweet or savory in taste. The term 'pie pie' was coined to emphasize the presence of the crust as a fundamental part of a pie.



1975

The Emergence of a Unique Dessert

In 1975, a talented pastry chef named Alice created a unique dessert that would soon become known as 'pie pie'. This delicious treat consisted of two layers of flaky crust filled with a delectable blend of fruit, spices, and cream. Alice's pie pie quickly gained popularity due to its mouthwatering taste and visually appealing presentation.


1745

The Arrival of the Pie

During the 18th century, pies were already a popular dish in many parts of the world. The term 'pie' itself refers to a baked dish that typically consists of a pastry casing filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Pies were enjoyed by people from all walks of life, from wealthy families to the working class. They were often filled with meat, fruits, or vegetables and were a satisfying and portable meal option.


1725

The Birth of Pies

Pies have been enjoyed for centuries, but it was in 1725 when the term 'pie pie' first emerged. Pies were a popular dish during this time, known for their delicious fillings enclosed in a pastry crust. The term 'pie pie' was coined to refer to the act of enjoying pie as a delightful double serving, emphasizing the pleasure of indulging in not just one, but two pies at once.



1900

The Sweet Pie Trend

In the early 20th century, sweet pies began to gain immense popularity. People started experimenting with various fillings, including fruits like apples, cherries, and peaches. The sweet flavors and flaky crust became a favorite treat for many. The term 'pie pie' originated during this time as a way to colloquially refer to a sweet pie, emphasizing its delicious and indulgent nature.


1824

First Recorded Use of 'Pie Pie'

The term 'pie pie' was first recorded in 1824. It appeared in a cookbook by Lydia Maria Child, titled 'The American Frugal Housewife.' The book included a recipe for 'fruit pie pie,' indicating the use of a double crust for the pie. The double crust, characteristic of 'pie pie,' became a culinary tradition, providing a seal for the filling and maintaining moisture and flavor.


1892

Pie pie becomes a popular phrase

By 1892, 'pie pie' had gained popularity among bakers and dessert enthusiasts. It had become a catchy phrase used to describe not only the taste and texture of the pie but also the joy and satisfaction experienced while indulging in this delightful treat. The phrase quickly spread through word of mouth and began appearing in various written publications.



1982

An Instant Hit at County Fairs

By 1982, word of Alice's pie pie had spread beyond the local bakery. The unique dessert made its debut at the annual county fair, where it became an instant hit. Fairgoers were captivated by the harmonious combination of flavors and textures in the pie pie. The dessert's popularity skyrocketed as people eagerly lined up to get a taste of this delightful creation.


1850

The Rise of Pie Pie Mania

By 1850, 'pie pie' had gained considerable popularity among pie enthusiasts. The term became synonymous with a culinary trend that swept across the nation. Pie pie mania was in full swing, with bakeries and restaurants offering special promotions and events centered around the enjoyment of pie pies. It became a symbol of abundance and decadence, charming people with its unique name and tantalizing flavors.


1930

Rise in Popularity

During the 1930s, 'pie pie' gained popularity as a term used colloquially to describe any kind of exquisite and scrumptious pie. The term resonated with people who wanted to express their enthusiasm for this beloved dessert. Its catchy repetition made it stand out and became a part of the culinary vernacular.



1920

The rise of pie pie in pop culture

'Pie pie' started to make its way into pop culture during the 1920s. Its memorable and playful sound made it a popular subject for songs, vaudeville acts, and comedy sketches. The phrase became synonymous with happiness and enjoyment, often used to describe moments of culinary delight or a pleasant surprise.


1923

Pie Pie in Pop Culture

In 1923, 'pie pie' cemented its place in pop culture when it was featured in a popular song titled 'Pie Pie, My Love.' The catchy tune captured the spirit of pie pie mania, with lyrics praising the joy of savoring two mouthwatering pies. The song became an instant hit and solidified the term's presence in the cultural lexicon, further pushing the popularity of 'pie pie' as a beloved food concept.


1955

Pop Culture References

In 1955, the term 'pie pie' made its way into pop culture through various media. It was featured in movies, television shows, and even in advertisements, further solidifying its place in the public consciousness. People began associating 'pie pie' with mouthwatering and visually appealing pies, leading to an increase in their popularity.



1990

Pie Pie Goes Mainstream

In 1990, a well-known food critic stumbled upon Alice's bakery during a culinary tour. Impressed by the exceptional taste and innovation of the pie pie, the critic featured it in a prominent food magazine. This publicity catapulted pie pie into the limelight, making it a cherished dessert among food enthusiasts worldwide. The unique name 'pie pie' caught on and became synonymous with this delectable treat.


1950

The Rise of Pie Shops

As the demand for pies continued to grow, specialized pie shops started popping up in various towns and cities. These dedicated establishments offered a wide range of pie varieties, catering to the diverse taste preferences of their customers. 'Pie pie' became a term used not only to describe the general concept of sweet pies but also specifically referred to the delectable offerings available at these specialty shops.


1890

Popularity in American Cuisine

By the late 19th century, 'pie pie' had gained popularity in American cuisine. Pies, whether sweet or savory, became an essential part of traditional American meals. The term 'pie pie' was commonly used to describe a pie with a top and bottom crust, differentiating it from open-faced or single-crust pies. 'Pie pie' represented a classic, comforting dish enjoyed by families across the United States.



1930

Expansion of Pie Varieties

In the 1930s, America witnessed an expansion in pie varieties. Pie shops and diners offered a wide array of 'pie pies,' ranging from apple, cherry, and pumpkin to pot pies and meat pies. The term 'pie pie' became synonymous with the traditional image of a well-crafted, homemade pie with a flaky crust. The aroma of freshly baked 'pie pie' filled households and evoked a sense of warmth and nostalgia.


2005

Internet Recipes Go Viral

With the advent of the internet, recipes began to spread like wildfire. In 2005, a popular cooking website featured a recipe for making homemade pie pie. The step-by-step instructions and vivid photographs sparked a wave of interest and inspired countless individuals to try their hand at baking this delicious delicacy. Pie pie became a staple in homes across the globe and was enjoyed by both amateur bakers and professional chefs alike.


1985

Pie Pie in Pop Culture

By the 1980s, pies had become deeply ingrained in popular culture. They made appearances in movies, TV shows, and even in song lyrics. Due to its catchy nature, the term 'pie pie' gained further recognition as a playful way to reference the beloved dessert. The phrase became associated with warmth, comfort, and a sense of nostalgia, augmenting the already rich cultural significance of pies.



1955

Pie pie as a term of endearment

In the 1950s, 'pie pie' took on an additional meaning as a term of endearment. It became a cute and affectionate nickname for loved ones, especially between couples. The term symbolized the sweetness and warmth of the relationship, reflecting the association with the deliciousness of pie.


1957

The Great Pie Pie Bake-Off

In 1957, the first-ever Great Pie Pie Bake-Off was held in a small town known for its pie-making heritage. Bakers from all corners of the country gathered to showcase their most creative and delicious pie pies. The event attracted thousands of pie enthusiasts, who eagerly sampled the unique variations of this culinary delight. The bake-off helped solidify 'pie pie' as a cherished national tradition, celebrating the artistry and innovation of pie making.


1980

Pie Pie Social Media Trend

The advent of social media in the 1980s brought 'pie pie' to a broader audience. Food enthusiasts and bakers started using the term to showcase their pie creations, sharing photos and recipes with one another. The hashtag #piepie began trending and became synonymous with visually stunning pies that were not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing.



Present

Continuing the Pie Pie Legacy

Today, 'pie pie' continues to be celebrated and enjoyed. National Pie Pie Day is observed annually, bringing together pie lovers from far and wide to revel in the magic of this dual delight. Bakeries, restaurants, and home cooks alike create exquisite pie pies, experimenting with flavors, textures, and presentation, all while paying homage to the rich history and cultural impact of 'pie pie'. It remains a cherished culinary treasure that brings joy and satisfaction to countless pie aficionados.


Present

Continued Love for 'Pie Pie'

In the present day, 'pie pie' continues to be used colloquially to refer to sweet pies. It has become a part of the culinary lexicon, evoking feelings of joy and satisfaction. Pies remain a cherished dessert, both in traditional and innovative forms. National Pie Day is celebrated on January 23rd each year to honor this delightful culinary creation and the impact it has had on our cultural heritage.


2017

National Pie Pie Day is Born

The growing popularity of pie pie led to the establishment of National Pie Pie Day on July 22, 2017. This special day was dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage and mouthwatering taste of this beloved dessert. Pie pie enthusiasts and food lovers now have an annual opportunity to indulge in their favorite treat and share their baking prowess with friends and family. National Pie Pie Day has become a cherished occasion for people to enjoy and honor the delightful creation that is pie pie.



2007

Modern Interpretations and Creative Twists

As culinary trends evolved, 'pie pie' continued to thrive with modern interpretations and creative twists. Chefs and bakers experimented with unconventional fillings, unique spices, and decorative crust designs. Miniature 'pie pies' gained popularity as bite-sized treats, perfect for parties and events. Even vegan and gluten-free variations of 'pie pie' emerged, catering to dietary preferences and restrictions. 'Pie pie' remains a beloved dessert, savored and celebrated by people worldwide.


2000

Modern-day usage and variations

In the 21st century, 'pie pie' has evolved further and expanded its usage beyond just referring to pies. It is now used as a playful term to describe any mouth-watering food or delightful experience. Additionally, variations of the term, such as 'pie pie' ice cream or 'pie pie' pizza, have emerged, showcasing the versatility and creativity of culinary enthusiasts.


Present

Continued Celebration of Pie Pie

To this day, 'pie pie' continues to be celebrated as a term synonymous with delightful and scrumptious pies. National Pie Day, observed on January 23rd, provides an opportunity for people to indulge in their favorite pies and share their creations with the world. Whether it's a traditional fruit pie or a creative savory pie, 'pie pie' remains a remarkable term that evokes both nostalgia and excitement for all pie lovers.



Did you know?

Did you know that the oldest known pie recipe dates back to ancient Rome? It was a recipe for a rye-crusted goat cheese and honey pie. Talk about a blast from the past!

Tagged

food fun loved ones

First identified

21st January 2016

Most mentioned on

23rd January 2018

Total mentions

91

Other days

biscuit

Biscuit Day

cheese lovers

Cheese Lovers Day

cheese pizza

Cheese Pizza Day


agriculture

Agriculture Day

bacon

Bacon Day

medal of honor

Medal Of Honor Day


pumpkin

Pumpkin Day

foundation

Foundation Day

guac

Guac Day


drink a beer

Drink A Beer Day