We have so much to be thankful for during this Thanksgiving season–turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, but most importantly, pie. As the holiday gets closer and closer, the stress sets in on which pies you should make to please your hungry family members. While I would happily eat any pie put in front of me, there’s an obvious order in which reigns supreme. So here are all the best Thanksgiving pies, ranked from good to best.
10. Cherry Pie
Cherry pie is a sub-par excuse for a pie. While it may be an American favorite, it’s just too boring and lacks flavor. Cherry pie can also often be too tart or sour. If you’re really committed to making cherry pie for this Thanksgiving, I would recommend a few heaping scoops of vanilla ice cream on top to off set the bitter taste.
9. Lemon Meringue Pie
While this may not be the most seasonal of pies, it still makes its way into many Thanksgiving dessert spreads. While this pie is pretty tasty, the color and texture aren’t my favorite. Plus, it feels like it should be enjoyed on a warm summer day instead of during Thanksgiving.
8. Sweet Potato Pie
Honestly, the idea of sweet potato pie just kind of freaks me out. Potatoes are not meant to be eaten in the form of a pie. While this pie is known to be a Thanksgiving classic, it should just stick to its original state.
7. Coconut Cream Pie
Coconut cream pie is another delicious pie that tends to be served during Thanksgiving, but just doesn’t feel seasonal enough. While I do enjoy this pie, it’s better suited for other occasions such as Easter or a random pie craving.
6. Banana Cream Pie
I am personally a huge fan of banana cream pie, but it can really rub people the wrong way. Occasionally the texture can be really off or the banana flavor can be too strong. This pie really requires a good recipe to be delicious, but if done correctly, it will make your Thanksgiving guests beg for more.
5. Chocolate Pie
This pie is a safe bet for everyone. I mean, who doesn’t love chocolate? This pie is one of the easiest to make and tends to turn out pretty spectacular every time. If this pie were more seasonal tasting, it could probably break into the top three, but it’s still very tasty.
4. Apple Pie
Apple pie is the most classic pie of all-time. The in-season apples makes this pie extra delicious, but it’s difficult for this pie to compare to other Thanksgiving all-star flavors. While I love apple pie, it just isn’t unique enough to break into the top three.
3. Pecan Pie
Pecan pie definitely deserves a spot in the top three best Thanksgiving pies. Its crunchy texture and nutty taste make for the perfect pairing. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top and this pie is the perfect ending to any Thanksgiving meal.
2. Pumpkin Pie
Ah, pumpkin pie. This is a fan favorite during Thanksgiving because you can’t really get it any other time of year. The smooth and creamy consistency with that hint of fall spice really pushes it towards the top of the list.
1. Chocolate Pecan Pie
Name a more iconic duo than chocolate and pecan combined. This delightful pie mash-up is hard to beat and brings its ranking to number one. This pie truly is the best of both worlds, and I would like to see any other pie try to compete.
So while there is so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving, pie clearly reigns supreme. Just remember, Thanksgiving meals are a marathon, not a sprint, so save room for dessert.