Apple pie is a staple of American desserts. It’s sweet, fruity, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday, or just a comforting treat. But what toppings can you put on an apple pie to take it to the next level? For many Americans, the answer is simple: cheese. Whether it’s a slice on top or melted right into the pastry, cheese adds a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the apples. But what kind of cheese do Americans prefer on their apple pie, and where did this tradition come from? In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of cheese on apple pie, regional variations, and other toppings you can try.
The History of Cheese on Apple Pie
Cheese on apple pie may seem like an odd combination to some, but it has a long history in certain parts of the United States. In fact, the tradition of serving cheese with apple pie dates back to the 17th century, when European settlers brought their culinary traditions with them to the New World. In those days, cheese was often served alongside pie as a way to preserve it and make it last longer.
Over time, this tradition evolved into serving cheese with apple pie specifically, and today, it’s most popular in New England and the Midwest. In New England, sharp, tangy cheddar cheese is often served on top of warm apple pie, while in the Midwest, cheese is baked right into the pastry crust. Interestingly, the West Coast doesn’t seem to have caught on to this trend, as cheese on apple pie is less common there.
Regional Variations
While cheese on apple pie is a popular tradition in both New England and the Midwest, there are regional variations in how it’s served. For example, in Vermont, a slice of sharp cheddar is often placed on top of a slice of warm apple pie, and then the whole thing is microwaved for a few seconds to melt the cheese. In Wisconsin, on the other hand, apple pies are often made with cheddar cheese already baked into the crust to create a savory base for the sweet apples.
In some areas, other types of cheese are used as well. For example, in parts of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, cream cheese is sometimes used as a topping, while in the South, some people prefer a slice of mild, creamy American cheese on their apple pie.
Other Toppings to Try
While cheese is the most famous topping for apple pie in America, there are plenty of other options to try if you’re feeling adventurous. Some people enjoy a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of their warm apple pie, while others like a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
If you’re feeling really daring, you could even try making a savory apple pie instead of a sweet one. A savory apple pie might include ingredients like bacon or sausage, and would be seasoned with herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
Conclusion
Apple pie is an American classic, and serving cheese on top of it is a tradition that’s been around for centuries. Whether it’s a slice of sharp cheddar, a creamy layer of cream cheese, or something else entirely, Americans love the contrast of savory and sweet flavors that cheese adds to their apple pie. So why not try it yourself? Next time you bake an apple pie, experiment with different toppings and see what combination you like best. And who knows, maybe someday your unique twist on this classic dessert will become a tradition in its own right!
FAQ
What is the best accompaniment to apple pie?
Apple pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. The sweet, juicy apples and the flaky, buttery crust make for a perfect combination. But have you ever wondered what the best accompaniment to apple pie is? While there are many options to choose from, the most popular choice remains a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
Whipped cream strikes the perfect balance with apple pie by cutting through the sweetness with a light and fluffy texture. Classic whipped cream is an essential recipe that every home cook needs in their arsenal. It is incredibly easy to make, and all you need is some heavy cream, sugar, and a whisk. Give it a twist by adding some unique flavors such as honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness!
Another excellent accompaniment to apple pie is a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy, cold ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm and flavourful pie. The contrast between the warm pie and the cold ice cream creates a delicious combination of textures that will leave your taste buds dancing.
If you’re looking for something a bit more novel, why not try some caramel sauce? The rich, buttery flavor of caramel pairs beautifully with the apples in the pie. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top of the pie and the scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Finally, for those who prefer a savory accompaniment to their dessert, a slice of sharp cheddar cheese is an excellent option. The tangy, salty cheese provides the perfect balance to the sweetness of the pie. Serve the cheese on the side, allowing your guests to experiment with pairing it to their liking.
The best accompaniment to apple pie is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, the classic fresh whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese, all provide delicious options to enhance the flavor of your apple pie.
What cheese is best on apple pie?
When it comes to apple pie, cheese is not typically the first topping that comes to mind. However, if you ask some die-hard apple pie fans, they might argue that a slice of sharp cheddar cheese is a must-have accompaniment. The pairing of cheddar cheese and apple pie has a long history, dating back to early American settlers. In fact, the notion of pairing cheese with sweet fruit desserts is not unique to apple pie, and has been a common practice in many cultures for centuries.
Traditionally, cheddar is considered the best cheese to add to apple pie. The sharp, tangy flavor of cheddar cheese complements the sweetness of the apple pie filling, providing a savory balance to the dessert. The combination of cheese and apple is a perfect example of the sweet and savory flavor profile, as it brings another dimension to the dish. Cheddar is an excellent choice because it is a hard cheese that is easy to grate, and provides a robust flavor that can stand up to the warm, sweet filling of the apple pie.
While cheddar is the most popular cheese pairing with apple pie, there are other cheeses that can be used as well. For example, blue cheese is a more pungent option that can add a unique flavor to the apple pie. Some also opt for more mild cheeses such as brie or cream cheese. It all comes down to personal preference. The important thing is to choose a cheese that will complement the flavors of the apple pie and won’t overpower it.
It is worth noting that some people may have a hard time accepting cheese as a topping for apple pie. However, to truly appreciate the beauty of this pairing, it is worth trying at least once. The magical combination of cheese and apple pie is a culinary experience that cannot be matched. If you are open to trying new flavor combinations, adding a slice of sharp cheddar cheese to your apple pie might be the perfect way to take your dessert to the next level.
In what state is it a law for apple pie to be served with cheese?
If you’re a fan of apple pie, you might be surprised to hear that in the state of Wisconsin, it is actually illegal to serve apple pie in public restaurants without a slice of cheese on top. This law has been enforced in Wisconsin for decades, and many residents see it as an important part of their state’s culinary heritage.
The practice of serving cheese with apple pie originated in the 19th century, when dairy was a widely available and affordable food in Wisconsin. The combination of sweet, warm apple pie with a sharp, tangy slice of cheddar cheese became a regional specialty, and it was eventually enshrined in state law.
Today, many restaurants and cafes in Wisconsin proudly serve apple pie with a generous slice of cheese on top. Some even take the tradition a step further by offering a variety of cheeses to choose from, such as aged cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese.
While the law might seem quirky to outsiders, many Wisconsinites take it very seriously. Some even consider it a point of pride that their state has a law requiring cheese to be served with apple pie.
Of course, plenty of people outside of Wisconsin enjoy pairing cheese with apple pie as well. It can be a delicious and unexpected flavor combination, and it’s a great way to showcase the rich culinary traditions of different regions and cultures.
So, if you ever find yourself in Wisconsin and have a hankering for apple pie, don’t forget to ask for a slice of cheese to go with it. It’s not only a delicious addition to your pie, it’s also the law.
What is the difference between American apple pie and English apple pie?
Apple pie is a classic dessert enjoyed by many people around the world. However, the recipe and ingredients for apple pie can differ depending on the country or region. One of the most popular versions is American apple pie, which is known for its sweet, spiced filling and flaky crust. In contrast, English apple pie is typically less sweet and often served with custard.
The primary difference between American and English apple pie is the seasoning. While American apple pie typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices, English apple pie is often less spiced and can feature just a little sugar and apples. In the United Kingdom, it’s common for custard to be served alongside a slice of apple pie, creating a creamy contrast to the tart apples.
Another key difference is the type of apples used in each recipe. American apple pie often features Granny Smith apples, which hold their shape well and offer a tart flavor that pairs well with the sweet filling. In contrast, English apple pie may use Bramley apples, which are more acidic and have a lower sugar content, giving the pie a more tart flavor profile.
Finally, the crust can also differ between the two types of apple pie. American apple pie is known for its flaky, buttery crust, often made with flour, butter, and shortening. English apple pie, on the other hand, typically features a denser crust made with a mix of flour and suet, a type of fat found in animal tissue.
While both American and English apple pie share the same basic ingredients of apples, sugar, and crust, the differences in seasoning, type of apples, and crust create distinct versions of this classic dessert.
