With Thanksgiving right around the corner, one question begins to rise again — pumpkin pie or apple pie? These two desserts both possess their own magic: nostalgic flavor, family memories and seasonal charm. No matter if it is the warmth of baked apples or the cool spice of pumpkin, each pie can capture the soul of a season in its own way.
Across America, both of the desserts have earned a spot on holiday tables, but at Aliso Niguel High School, students are vocal with their opinions about which slice they feel should reign supreme. Most students said that they thought pumpkin pie was preferred over apple pie, calling it an essential of fall that can’t be replaced by any apple pie.
Jaslene Massey (12) did not hesitate to share her opinion, saying, “I honestly don’t think I could stomach an entire apple pie, I would absolutely stop halfway through and rethink my decision, but for pumpkin pie I would eat the whole thing — no regrets.”
Kylie Curtis (11) agreed with Massey, commenting that pumpkin pie is better than apple pie because, “it’s smooth and super creamy.” She also mentioned that pumpkin pie simply feels like fall, “It’s [pumpkin pie] packed with spices that just remind me of the fall season, and definitely Thanksgiving. It’s a dessert that makes you want to curl up near a fireplace.”
Still, apple pie defenders stand their ground. Apple pie often brings back memories of childhood and the scent of baked apples can bring a warm feeling. Many students noted that apple pie can be enjoyed at any time of the year, unlike pumpkin pie, which is seen as a fall staple.
Apple pie’s versatility makes it popular. For many people, apple pie can also often be representative of a symbol of comfort and tradition.
Charlotte Jameson (9) said, “Apple pie is absolutely the better option. I might be biased because my family makes it every year for Christmas, and my mom’s recipe is easily the best.”
Jordyne Lewis (12) agreed, saying that for her, apple pie is supreme because of the topping she has with it. “Definitely apple pie for me; eating it with ice cream is just genuinely unbeatable,” she said.
While pumpkin pie may currently take a seasonal spotlight, apple pie can hold a year-round charm. The sweetness that comes with baked apples, cinnamon and sugar placed within a buttery crust gives it a timeless charm.
Pumpkin pie, on the other hand, shines solo during the cold months with its warm spice of nutmeg, clove and cinnamon and its cool, custard-like texture. Nonetheless, both pies capture the nostalgic factor that the holidays bring to the table.
As Thanksgiving approaches, our ANHS students are prepared to eat their favorite pies, whether that means a pumpkin wedge or a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over a warm apple. In the end, pie preferences will differ, but dessert will never fail to bring people together. No matter your slice of choice, everyone wins when there’s whipped cream involved.
