National Pumpkin Pie Day

National Pumpkin Pie Day is a delicious culinary observance celebrated annually on December 25. Coinciding with Christmas Day, this holiday honors the creamy, spiced dessert that serves as the centerpiece for many winter holiday feasts.

History of National Pumpkin Pie Day

The pumpkin itself is native to North America, and early export records show it was introduced to Tudor England, where “pumpion” flesh was quickly accepted as a pie filler. However, the early colonial version of this dish looked very different from the modern slice. Lacking wheat for pastry crusts and ovens for baking, early settlers often improvised by cutting the top off the pumpkin, scooping out the seeds, and filling the hollow shell with milk, spices, and honey. They would then roast the entire gourd in hot ashes to create a custard-like pudding.

The modern custard pie took shape as culinary exchanges occurred between the Americas and Europe. By the mid-17th century, French chef François Pierre La Varenne published a recipe that included a pastry shell, and English cookbooks began featuring “pumpkin pie” recipes with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It became a staple of American cuisine during the 19th century, particularly after Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, cementing the pumpkin’s status as an icon of the harvest and winter.

Pumpkin Pie Day celebrates November 21.

Why is National Pumpkin Pie Day important?

This day celebrates a dessert that represents comfort and continuity. By late December, the pumpkin harvest is long finished, but the hard-shelled gourds store well, making them a reliable source of sweetness during the cold winter months. The pie’s warm spices—ginger, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg—are aromatically linked to the feeling of “home” and family gatherings. It offers a smooth, lighter alternative to the dense fruitcakes and heavy puddings often served during the holidays.

Furthermore, the day highlights the versatility of a vegetable that was once essential for survival. It transforms a humble squash into a decadent treat. The popularity of pumpkin pie has also spurred an entire seasonal economy of “pumpkin spice” products, but this day returns the focus to the authentic, original dessert that started the craze.

• It honors a native North American food tradition.
• The spices used evoke strong holiday memories.
• Pie serves as a communal finish to the Christmas meal.
• It bridges the gap between Thanksgiving and Christmas flavors.
• Families often use recipes passed down for generations.

How to Celebrate National Pumpkin Pie Day

The most obvious way to celebrate is by enjoying a slice of pie after your holiday dinner. While many people rely on store-bought pies or canned purée for convenience, making a pie from fresh sugar pumpkins offers a distinct, roasted flavor and a lighter texture. If you are hosting, consider offering a variety of toppings, such as traditional whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of salted caramel to elevate the classic recipe.

For true enthusiasts, this day legitimizes the practice of eating pie for breakfast. Since the day falls on December 25, starting the morning with a slice of pumpkin pie and a cup of coffee is a festive indulgence many look forward to all year. You can also experiment with the concept by baking pumpkin pie bars, cheesecake, or tarts if you want to try a different format while keeping the traditional flavor profile.

• Bake a pie using a fresh roasted sugar pumpkin.
• Serve slices with homemade maple whipped cream.
• Eat a slice of leftover pie for holiday breakfast.
• Share your family recipe with a younger relative.
• deliver a mini pumpkin pie to a neighbor.

National Pumpkin Pie Day Dates Table