Kamil Perry
Apple pie and cheese is a food combination that exists in the United States. While it is not common in Southern states, it is a tradition in certain parts of the country. The pairing is believed to have originated in England in the 17th century, where a tradition of using dairy-based sauces in pies evolved into topping them with cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Regions where cheese is put on apple pie | New England, the Midwest, parts of England and Canada |
| Regions where cheese is not put on apple pie | Southern states |
| Type of cheese used | Sharp cheddar, gouda, parmesan, gruyère, roquefort |
| Alternative toppings | Streusel, ice cream, whipped cream |
| Origin of the combination | England, dating back to the 17th century |
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What You'll Learn
The tradition of eating apple pie with cheese
The combination of apple pie and cheese, specifically sharp cheddar cheese, has been a beloved tradition in the United States since as early as the 1800s. However, the tradition of pairing these two foods likely originated in England in the 17th century.
In England during the 17th and 18th centuries, it was common for pies to be topped with a dairy-based sauce, such as custard. Eventually, some people began to substitute the dairy sauce with a slice of cheddar cheese, creating the classic combination of apple pie and cheddar cheese. This tradition was then brought over to the United States by European settlers, particularly in the North, where it became popular in what is now considered New England and the Upper Midwest, regions known for their dairy and apple production.
The reason why apple pie and cheddar cheese work so well together lies in their contrasting flavours and textures. The gooey, syrupy sweetness of the apple pie filling and the buttery, flaky crust are perfectly balanced by the salty, savory sharpness of the cheddar cheese. The cheese can be melted on top of the pie, served cold, or on the side, allowing for a variety of textures and temperatures to suit individual preferences. For those who want to take the combination even further, cheese can be added to the apple filling or used to make a savory cheddar crust.
While the tradition of eating apple pie with cheddar cheese is most strongly associated with the Northeast and Midwest regions of the United States, it has also spread to other parts of the country and the world, including Canada and England. However, in some regions, such as the Southern United States, the combination of apple pie and cheese is less common, with ice cream, heavy cream, or whipped cream preferred as toppings for apple pie.
Overall, the tradition of eating apple pie with cheese, especially cheddar cheese, is a unique and unexpected culinary combination that has endured for centuries. While it may not be to everyone's taste, it is a testament to the creativity and innovation that can occur when different foods and cultures come together.
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The history of apple pie and cheese
Apple pie is a popular dessert in many parts of the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Norway, Germany, and New Zealand. While the pie is often served à la mode—topped with ice cream—some people enjoy it with a slice of cheese, usually sharp cheddar. This combination is said to have originated in England and dates back to the 17th century, when dairy-based sauces often topped pies.
The practice of eating apple pie with cheese likely began as a way to aid digestion, as cheese was commonly served with fruit and nuts at the end of meals. Over time, this combination made its way to the United States, particularly to regions with a strong dairy and apple production, such as New England and the Midwest. In these areas, apple pie with cheddar cheese became a popular dessert, with some considering it a serious delicacy.
However, the combination of apple pie and cheese is not universally loved in the United States. In the Southern states, for example, it is not a common practice. Southerners are known for their unique food combinations, but apple pie with cheese is not one of them. Instead, they typically top their apple pie with ice cream, heavy cream, or whipped cream.
The debate over the proper way to enjoy apple pie extends beyond the choice of cheese or no cheese. Some people prefer a double-crusted pie, with pastry both above and below the filling, while others opt for a single-crust pie or a Dutch apple pie with a crumb or streusel topping. The type of apple used can also vary, with popular cooking apples including Braeburn, Gala, Cortland, and Granny Smith, among others.
While the history of apple pie and cheese may be disputed, with some claiming it began in England and others tracing it back to early American settlers, one thing is clear: this combination has a long history and is considered by many a perfect pairing of sweet and savory flavors.
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Alternative cheeses to cheddar
While many Americans enjoy apple pie with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, there are several alternative cheeses to choose from. These alternatives can be used to cater to dietary restrictions, personal preferences, or simply to add some variety.
One option is mozzarella, which, like cheddar, originated in the 12th century in southern Italy. Mozzarella has a firm yet stringy consistency due to its stretching and kneading process, making it ideal for pizza toppings. It has a mild yet distinctive flavour that differs from the sharpness of cheddar. However, it may not be the best choice for recipes that require a sharp cheese, such as mac and cheese.
Another Italian cheese, provolone, is a suitable substitute for cheddar. Provolone has a generally smoky flavour and a mild taste. The sharper version, provolone picante, is firmer and takes longer to melt, so it may not be suitable for certain recipes like mac and cheese or omelettes. However, it can be a great choice for sandwiches, paninis, and salads, or as an addition to a charcuterie board.
Colby cheese is another alternative that offers a similar texture and flavour to cheddar. It has a mild, slightly sweet taste that can add a unique twist to recipes. For those who enjoy the creamy texture and sharp flavour of cheddar, Havarti cheese is a suitable substitute. It melts beautifully and can add a touch of sophistication to dishes.
For those following a plant-based diet or looking to reduce their dairy intake, there are vegan cheddar cheese alternatives available that mimic the taste and texture of traditional cheddar. These alternatives are perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or simply looking for variety in their kitchen creations.
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How to serve apple pie with cheese
Apple pie and cheese is a food combination that has been around for a long time, although it is not popular among all Americans. The combination is believed to have originated in England in the 17th century, where a tradition of using dairy-based sauces in pies evolved into topping pies with cheese. The tradition then spread to the United States, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest regions, which are known for their dairy and apple production.
If you want to serve apple pie with cheese, here are some tips to consider:
Type of Cheese:
Sharp cheddar cheese is the traditional choice for pairing with apple pie. Its salty, savory sharpness is said to complement the sweet and syrupy filling of the pie, creating a unique flavor combination. However, there are other cheese options that you can experiment with, such as Gouda, Parmesan, Gruyère, or even Roquefort.
Ways to Serve the Cheese:
- Topping: You can simply place a slice of cheese on top of the pie. You have the option to melt the cheese or serve it cold, according to your preference.
- Filling: For a more integrated flavor, you can add grated or cubed cheese to the apple filling before baking the pie.
- Crust: For a savory twist, you can incorporate grated cheese into the pie crust.
- Side: If you're not sure about combining the cheese and pie directly, you can serve the cheese on the side, allowing individuals to add cheese to their pie slice as desired.
Consider Regional Preferences:
It is worth noting that the combination of apple pie and cheese is not equally popular across all regions of the United States. While it is a well-established tradition in the Northeast and Midwest, it is less common in the Southern states, where apple pie is more often served with ice cream, heavy cream, or whipped cream.
So, if you're serving apple pie with cheese to a diverse group of Americans, be prepared for varying reactions—some may find it delicious, while others may be confused by this unconventional pairing.
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Why apple pie with cheese might taste good
Apple pie with cheese might taste good because of the interplay between the sweet and savoury flavours. The gooey, syrupy sweetness of the filling and the buttery, flaky crust of the pie complement the salty, savoury sharpness of the cheese. This combination of flavours could result in a delicious contrast.
The type of cheese used is also important. Sharp cheddar cheese is the most traditional choice, with its bright orange colour and strong flavour. However, other varieties such as Gouda, Parmesan, Gruyère, and Roquefort could also be used, each contributing their own unique flavours and textures. For example, Gouda offers nutty, caramelly notes, while Parmesan is known for its intense saltiness.
The practice of pairing apple pie with cheese may have originated in England in the 17th century, where pies were often topped with dairy-based sauces or custard. Over time, some people began to experiment with using cheese as a topping, and the tradition eventually made its way to the United States, particularly in regions with a strong dairy and apple production, such as New England and the Midwest.
While the combination of apple pie and cheese may seem unusual to some, it has a long history and a dedicated following, especially in certain regions of the United States. Those who enjoy it appreciate the unique blend of flavours and textures that the sweet pie and savoury cheese create.
Additionally, the combination of apple pie and cheese can be seen as a convenient way to enjoy a dessert and a cheese course in one, satisfying both sweet and savoury cravings. This practicality, along with the tasty interplay of flavours, might be why some people enjoy apple pie with cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
Some Americans do put cheese on apple pie, but it is a regional tradition that is most common in the Northeast and Midwest.
The tradition of eating apple pie with cheese likely originated in England in the 17th century, when a tradition of using dairy-based sauces in pies evolved into topping pies with cheese.
Sharp cheddar is the traditional choice, but other options include gouda, parmesan, gruyère, and roquefort.
The cheese can be melted on top of the pie, kept cold, or served on the side. It can also be added to the apple filling or used to make a savory cheddar crust.
Other common toppings for apple pie include ice cream, heavy cream, and whipped cream.
