Apple Pie Contest

Calling all contestants!

Brush up on those baking skills and get ready for the 2023 Apple Pie Contest!

Which is your preferred way to enjoy a delicious apple pie? Store bought or homemade? I’m a strong believer that good food takes time and will almost always take the extra time to make something completely from scratch.

I’ve been baking butter crust pies for the past three years and when I heard there was going to be an Apple Pie Contest at the Fourth of July Festival, I had to participate.

Before we jump into the apple pie contest though, lets take this time to learn why this iconic dessert is an American favorite.

A Slice of American Culinary Heritage

When it comes to American desserts, few can rival the timeless appeal of a fresh apple pie. Known as the classic treat, with its buttery crust and luscious apple filling, it holds a special place in American culinary culture. From family gatherings to national celebrations, apple pie has become synonymous with the United States, representing tradition, nostalgia, and the flavors of an American home.

The FIRST apple pie I baked.

In 2020, I baked this beautiful butter crust, apple pie to share with friends. Not only was it my first time to bake an apple pie, but also a lattice crust.

Cultural Symbolism:

Apple pie has earned its place as a cultural symbol, embodying the values and spirit of the United States. It became particularly significant during the 19th century, when the phrase "as American as apple pie" entered the lexicon, representing all that was wholesome, traditional, and uniquely American. In times of war and hardship, apple pie stood as a symbol of comfort and resilience, evoking a sense of home and stability.

Family Traditions and Gatherings:

Granny Smith Apples

I prefer to use granny smith apples in my pie for a tad bit of tartness.

For generations, apple pie has been a fixture in American family traditions and gatherings. Passed down through family recipes, the art of making apple pie has been lovingly shared and perfected. Baking an apple pie together has become a cherished ritual, fostering bonds and creating lasting memories. Whether it's the shared task of peeling and slicing apples or the anticipation of the aroma filling the home, apple pie has a unique ability to bring loved ones closer.

However in my household, apple pies weren’t commonly baked from scratch, rather store bought from the local grocery store. As I got older I found myself getting more curious in the kitchen, aside from everything my mom taught me, I wanted to know more. I always loved the idea of making something completely from scratch, no short cuts. I needed to know first hand what the difference was in flavor when the end product started from scratch. Honestly for me it was a game changer, having tasted the perfectly crusted butter crust, warm apple filling fresh from the oven; I’ll make it from scratch every time.

Celebrations and National Holidays:

On the Fourth of July, it is often served alongside fireworks and barbecues, embodying the patriotic spirit of the nation. All the more reason this years apple pie contest took place at the Annual Fourth of July Contest in Smithville, TX. The festival really shined in bringing the community together with live music, local food vendors, family festivities, and a fireworks show.

Smithville Apple Pie Contest:

First Place Apple Pie Winner!

Double, butter crust apple pie made completely from scratch and baked with love!

The night before the festival, I was scrolling through facebook when I came across the announcement for the Pie Contest. I eagerly started messaging the coordinator trying to find out how to join. For a small fee I was easily welcomed to the contest.

Before I could start on my pie I needed a few ingredients, luckily for us the Smithville Farmers Market was introducallowing local vendors to come together selling homemade products. Living just a couple of streets over, Anthony and I walked down to the market to find the amazing Apple Butter from BP Homestead, a local farmer here in Smithville. A spoonful of that really elevated my pie filling, I truly believe it was with help of the local product that enhanced the flavors of my pie.

BP Homestead’s Apple Butter

This special ingredient really enhanced the flavors, in my apple pie. I’m so happy Benjamin with BP Homestead sold us on this product! It was made completely from scratch, exploding with flavor after rendering for 20 hours!

We ended this Fourth of July with pure gratitude and were so happy to have been able to share our pie with the community. Looking forward to next year!

First Pie Contest was a success!

I was overjoyed to hear that the community loved my apple pie.

Ending the blog, with a fun video of the making of our homemade butter crust apple pie! Enjoy!