The old saying might be “it’s as American as apple pie,” but this summer marks the nation’s 250th anniversary, so things have to be extra American. McDonald’s has just the thing: the return of fan-favorite Fried Apple Pies.
This Tuesday, the U.S. (and global) fast food staple announced that its fried apple pies would be making a limited-time comeback on June 23 just in time for the country’s 250th birthday coming up on July 4.
“If you know, you know. If you don't, June 23 is your chance to find out,” said McDonald’s in a press release. “The OG Fried Apple Pie is back at participating restaurants nationwide for a limited time.”
Inside a golden, crunchy and flaky crust, diners will bite into the signature 100% American-grown apple filling. It’s a recipe that goes back to at least the 1960s, when Tennessee Owner/Operator Litton Cochran created a fried apple pie that became a fan favorite.
“There are certain things that just take you back – and the Fried Apple Pie is one of them. It’s something that people love and remember from growing up,” said Eric Cochran, McDonald’s Owner/Operator. “When Ray Kroc was trying to come up with a dessert for McDonald’s, my Grandad, Litton Cochran, suggested a Fried Apple Pie as a classic that people would love. My Grandmom, Jo Cochran, spent months perfecting the recipe. Bringing the Fried Apple Pie back for fans this summer to celebrate America’s 250th just feels right.”
While these pies fit snugly in one hand, a much larger 35-foot Fried Apple Pie will also rise along Route 66 this summer to mark the comeback on June 23. A kickoff event for the debut of the giant pie will be held at 920 N Broadway St. in Joliet, Ill., from 3:30 to 6 p.m. CT. Live music, ice-cold Coca-Cola and complimentary Arch Cards will be on tap. Then, the pie will stand tall through July 4.
“The McDonald's Largest Fried Apple Pie invites fans to snap a selfie and pick up a McDonald’s souvenir map before hitting the road again,” said McDonald’s.
