Observed every January 23rd, National Pie Day is an informal celebration dedicated to the delectable baked dish crafted from pastry dough and filled with a delicious, typically sweet, or occasionally savory filling – more commonly known as pie. This festive day has been embraced since the 1970s, providing a perfect opportunity to savor a slice of pie or share this delightful treat with your loved ones.

History and Significance: National Pie Day was first established in 1975 by Charlie Papazian, a schoolteacher from Boulder, Colorado. He chose January 23rd, his own birthday, as the date for this celebration because of his love for pies. The American Pie Council, an organization dedicated to preserving America’s pie heritage, later adopted National Pie Day as an official holiday.

Pies have a long history that dates back to ancient Egypt, where the earliest versions were made with a simple crust filled with honey. Over time, pies evolved into the sweet and savory dishes we know today, becoming a symbol of home-cooked comfort in American culture. National Pie Day honors this rich tradition and encourages people to enjoy and celebrate pies in all their forms.

Types of Pies:

• Fruit Pies: Classic fruit pies include apple, cherry, blueberry, and peach, made with fresh or canned fruit and often topped with a lattice or crumb crust.
• Custard Pies: These pies feature a creamy, egg-based filling, such as in pumpkin, sweet potato, or buttermilk pie.
• Cream Pies: Made with a rich, whipped cream or custard filling, popular varieties include chocolate cream, coconut cream, and banana cream pie.
• Savory Pies: Not all pies are sweet; savory pies include dishes like chicken pot pie, shepherd’s pie, and quiche, which are filled with meats, vegetables, and cheeses.
• Nut Pies: Pies like pecan pie and walnut pie are known for their rich, sweet fillings made with nuts, sugar, and syrup.

Ways to Celebrate National Pie Day:

• Bake a Pie: Celebrate by baking your favorite pie from scratch. Whether you choose a classic apple pie or try a new recipe, baking a pie is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy this day.
• Host a Pie Party: Invite friends and family over for a pie-themed party. Ask guests to bring their favorite pies, and enjoy a variety of flavors and styles.
• Pie Tasting: Visit a local bakery or pie shop and sample different types of pies. This is a great way to discover new favorites and support local businesses.
• Share a Pie: Spread the love by sharing a homemade or store-bought pie with neighbors, coworkers, or friends. Pies make a thoughtful and delicious gift.
• Try a New Recipe: Experiment with a new pie recipe that you’ve never tried before. Explore different ingredients, such as exotic fruits or unique spices, to create a pie that’s uniquely yours.
• Learn Pie-Making Techniques: If you’re new to baking, use National Pie Day as an opportunity to learn pie-making techniques. Watch tutorials, read cookbooks, or take a baking class.
• Post on Social Media: Share your pie creations and celebrations on social media using hashtags like #NationalPieDay and #PieDay. Connect with other pie enthusiasts and exchange recipes and ideas.

Simple Apple Pie Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 double pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 6-7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: Roll out one half of the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges, leaving a slight overhang.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
3. Fill the Pie: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
4. Add the Top Crust: Roll out the second half of the pie crust and place it over the apples. Trim the edges and crimp to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake the Pie: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Interesting Facts About Pie:

• Oldest Known Pie Recipe: The oldest known pie recipe dates back to ancient Rome, where a recipe for a rye-crusted goat cheese and honey pie was recorded.
• Pie in Pop Culture: Pies have been featured in many movies and TV shows, symbolizing home, comfort, and tradition. Notable examples include "American Pie" and the famous pie scene in "Waitress."
• Versatile Dish: Pies can be adapted to any season or occasion, with endless possibilities for fillings and crusts, making them one of the most versatile desserts.

Conclusion: National Pie Day is a delicious celebration of a timeless dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. Whether you bake your own pie, host a pie party, or simply savor a slice of your favorite flavor, this day is all about indulging in the comfort and joy that pie brings. Embrace the tradition, try new recipes, and share the experience with friends and family. National Pie Day on January 23rd is the perfect excuse to enjoy a slice (or two) of pie and appreciate the rich history and versatility of this beloved treat.