National Pumpkin Pie Day, celebrated on December 25 honors this beloved fall dessert that’s a staple at Christmas gatherings. Pumpkin pies, made with a pie shell filled with pumpkin custard, are typically seasoned with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. If you missed National Pumpkin Day in October, this is your chance to enjoy a delicious pumpkin pie!
History of National Pumpkin Pie Day
The origins of National Pumpkin Pie Day are unclear, but pumpkin pie itself has a rich history.
The originates from the Greek word ‘pepon,’ which means ‘large melon.’ This term was adopted by the French as ‘pompon’ and eventually became ‘pumpion’ in English.
The first pilgrims in Plymouth Colony might have made a version of pumpkin pie. With pumpkins provided by Native Americans, the settlers created a pumpkin custard using milk, honey, and spices. This early version of pumpkin pie is believed to have been served on the first Thanksgiving.
In 1651, the renowned French chef François Pierre de la Varenne published a significant cookbook titled “Le Vrai Cuisinier François” (The True French Cook). The book was translated into English in 1653 which included a recipe for pumpkin pie called ‘Tourte of Pumpkin.’
By the 1670s, recipes for ‘pumpion pie’ began appearing in English cookbooks. Over time, the recipes became more standardized, with the addition of spices. Optional ingredients like raisins, apples, and currants also started being included.
In 1796, the pumpkin pie we recognize today began to take shape with the publication of “American Cookery” by American orphan Amelia Simmons.
This cookbook was the first to feature recipes tailored to American tastes and included a recipe for pumpkin pudding baked in a crust, closely resembling the pumpkin pie we enjoy today.
Timeline of National Pumpkin Pie Day
| 1621 (Pilgrims’ Pumpkin Pie) | The first pilgrims in America begin making their variation of a pumpkin pie. |
| 1675 (Early Recipes) | Pumpkin pie recipes start appearing in English cookbooks, like in Hannah Woolley’s “The Gentlewoman’s Companion”. |
| 1844 (An Ode to Pumpkin Pie) | The Thanksgiving poem ‘Over the River and Through the Wood’ composed by Lydia Maria Child, features a pumpkin pie. |
| 2003 (Pumpkin Craze!) | Starbucks adds the original Pumpkin Spice Latte to its menu. |
| 2010 (World Record!) | The world’s biggest pumpkin pie, weighing 3,699 pounds, is made in New Bremen, Ohio. |
7 Interesting Facts About Pumpkins
- That’s a lot of Baking!: The world’s largest pumpkin pie was 20 feet long and made at the New Bremen Pumpkinfest. It included 109 gallons of milk, 1,212 pounds of canned pumpkin, 2,796 eggs, 15 pounds of cinnamon, and 525 pounds of sugar!
- Giant Pumpkins: The world record for the largest pumpkin ever grown was set in 2021 by a pumpkin weighing 2,702 pounds (1,224.6 kg). These giants can grow to impressive sizes thanks to careful cultivation and a lot of nutrients.
- It Used to Be the Other Way Round: In the past, pumpkins were mainly used to make pie crusts rather than the filling.
- Pumpkins as a Remedy: Pumpkins were once believed to cure snake bites and remove freckles.
- Only in America!: The traditional American pumpkin is the Connecticut field variety.
- The Pumpkin Wasn’t the Original Choice for Carving: Early jack-o’-lanterns were made from potatoes or turnips. It wasn’t until later that pumpkins became the preferred choice.
- Nutritional Benefits: Pumpkins are not just for Halloween and Thanksgiving—they’re also quite nutritious. They’re high in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. Their antioxidant properties can help support immune function and overall health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Pumpkin Pie Day on December 25th offers a delightful opportunity to celebrate one of fall’s most cherished desserts. Whether you’ve missed out on enjoying pumpkin pie in October or are simply eager for another slice, this day provides the perfect occasion to indulge in this flavorful treat.
From its early roots with the Pilgrims to modern-day innovations like the Pumpkin Spice Latte and world-record pies, pumpkin pie has evolved significantly over the centuries. With its rich history, cultural significance, and nutritional benefits, pumpkin pie remains a beloved symbol of warmth and festivity, making National Pumpkin Pie Day a wonderful reason to gather with loved ones and savor a slice of tradition.
Frequently Ask Question
1. What is National Pumpkin Pie Day?
National Pumpkin Pie Day is celebrated on December 25th. This day is honored as a beloved fall dessert, pumpkin pie, which is a staple at Christmas gatherings.
2. What are the key ingredients in pumpkin pie?
Pumpkin pie is typically made with a pie shell filled with pumpkin custard, seasoned with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of pumpkins?
Pumpkins are high in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. They have antioxidant properties that support immune function and overall health.
4. When did pumpkin pie recipes start appearing in cookbooks?
Recipes for pumpkin pie began appearing in English cookbooks in the 1670s. The modern version of the pie began to take shape with the publication of Amelia Simmons’ “American Cookery” in 1796.
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