A Thanksgiving Classic
A Thanksgiving Classic: Apple Pie at Lucy’s Pie House & Grill
Thanksgiving at Lucy’s Pie House & Grill is about more than just great food—it’s about honoring traditions, sharing stories, and creating memories. One of the desserts we’re proudest of is our fully homemade apple pie, made with all-natural ingredients and baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together.
Recently, one of our customers shared the saying: “Apple pie without cheese is like a hug without a squeeze.” It got us thinking about the history behind this quirky pairing and why some people swear by it while others have never tried it.
Why Cheese with Apple Pie?
The tradition of pairing apple pie with cheese dates back to Yorkshire, England, where apple pies were often served with Wensleydale cheese. When New England settlers brought the idea to America, cheddar became the preferred cheese due to its availability and sharp flavor. According to The Mystic Seaport Cookbook: 350 Years of New England Cooking, this wasn’t just a regional quirk—it was practical.
Before the development of sweeter apple varieties like the Red Delicious in the late 19th century, most apples were tart or bland. Cheese, with its saltiness and tang, added a satisfying contrast to the spiced apples. In an era before freezers, where ice cream wasn’t an option, cheese became the go-to complement for apple pie. This tradition took root in dairy-rich regions like New England, the Midwest, and parts of Canada.
Some people baked cheese into the pie crust, others melted it on top, and many simply served a slice on the side. The combination of sweet and savory flavors continues to divide apple pie fans—some love it, some don’t, and many haven’t tried it.
Is It Lonely or Just Right?
We’d love to know what you think: Is apple pie without cheese lonely or just right? Are you a cheese-on-pie enthusiast, or do you prefer your slice with a classic scoop of ice cream? Or maybe you’re a purist who believes apple pie needs no topping at all.
Whatever your preference, we’re here to make your Thanksgiving delicious.A Thanksgiving Must-Have at Lucy’s
At Lucy’s, we believe the best apple pie starts with the best ingredients. That’s why every pie is made from scratch, with hand-peeled, perfectly ripened apples, warm spices, and a flaky homemade crust. Whether you’re reliving old traditions or starting new ones, our apple pie is the perfect way to end your Thanksgiving feast.
From all of us at Lucy’s Pie House & Grill: Happy Thanksgiving! May your day be filled with gratitude, good company, and plenty of pie—cheese optional.