A Slice of Tradition: Pumpkin Pie Tops the List of Christmas Desserts in NJ!
While many of us are still finishing our Thanksgiving leftovers, it’s never too early to get excited about Christmas food—especially desserts.
Candy canes and ribbon candy are festive, but for most people, baked goods steal the show. There’s something special about enjoying a homemade dessert, especially if it’s a recipe passed down through your family.
For me, one-holiday dessert stands out not just as a favorite but as a New Jersey classic: pumpkin pie. A recent study by Coffeeness shows it’s also the most popular Christmas dessert in the state.
The Study Behind the Sweet Stats
To find out the most-loved Christmas desserts in each state, Coffeeness used Google Trends data to analyze search interests.
While neighbors in New York and Pennsylvania prefer sugar cookies, pumpkin pie takes the spotlight in New Jersey—and 20 other states!
Why We Love Pumpkin Pie?
Pumpkin pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a tradition. I love having a slice after dinner, and I’ll admit I’ve even enjoyed a small piece for breakfast. Without whipped cream, it feels like a healthy start to the day—right?
This holiday favorite has deep roots in history. The first pumpkin pie recipe appeared in the 1650s in a cookbook by Françoise Pierre de La Varenne. When the Pilgrims arrived, they embraced pumpkins, a crop native to America, as part of their festive meals.
Pumpkin pie became a symbol of New England abolitionists in the 19th century, representing a blend of tradition and values. Over time, it turned into a beloved holiday staple across the United States.
Fun Facts About Pumpkin Pie
- The dessert dates back to early European settlers who combined Native American pumpkins with European baking styles.
- Pumpkin pie was once considered a political symbol, especially in New England.
- Its long-standing history makes it as American as—if not more so than—apple pie.
A Slice of NJ Tradition
New Jersey’s love for pumpkin pie makes sense when you think about its rich flavors, comforting texture, and connection to family gatherings.
Whether you enjoy it at Christmas dinner or sneak a slice the next morning, this dessert is more than just food—it’s a tradition that brings people together.
So this holiday season, let’s celebrate with a slice of pumpkin pie and keep the tradition alive. And maybe we can start saying, “As American as pumpkin pie.” What do you think? Try dropping that phrase into your holiday conversations this year!