What’s The No.1 Pie in The U.S.? Instacart Has The Answer – And You Probably Guessed It!

When it comes to pies, one flavor rises above the rest—apple pie. Recent data from Instacart reveals that this classic dessert is not just a holiday favorite, but America’s number one pie. From coast to coast, apple pie remains the top choice for pie lovers, holding its crown despite the growing variety of alternatives.

America's Favorite Pie: Apple Pie Reigns Supreme

When you think of American desserts, the image of a golden, flaky crust filled with cinnamon-sweetened fruit comes to mind—yes, we're talking about apple pie. According to recent data from Instacart, apple pie is not just a classic; it's America's favorite. In 2024, nearly 30% of all pies sold through Instacart were apple pies. This statistic solidifies its position as the reigning champion in pie rankings and reinforces what many have known all along—apple pie is as American as, well, apple pie.

A Deep Dive into the Numbers

Instacart's research highlights some fascinating trends in pie consumption across the nation. After apple pie’s dominant performance, pumpkin pie follows closely behind, accounting for 23% of sales, while pecan pie comes in third at 9%. These three pies have solidified their places as the top contenders in the pie world, each representing a piece of the American dessert tradition. Despite newer, more niche options, these classics continue to capture the taste buds of many.

Interestingly, some lesser-known pies, such as raspberry and vanilla cream, are less popular, with each making up only a tiny fraction (0.02%) of the total pie sales. But when it comes to the big three, there’s no competition. Apple pie’s hold on the market remains firmly intact.

Regional Flavors: Pie Preferences by Location

Pie preferences, as Instacart’s research reveals, vary greatly depending on the region. While apple pie dominates nationally, other pies shine in specific areas. For instance, pumpkin pie isn't just a fall favorite—it’s enjoyed year-round, particularly in the West Coast and Florida. Meanwhile, pecan pie, beloved for its sweet and nutty richness, is the undisputed favorite in the South, particularly in states like Texas and the Carolinas.

In the Midwest, cherry pie takes center stage, especially along a "cherry belt" stretching from Arizona to West Virginia. Meanwhile, cities like San Francisco break from the norm, where Key Lime Pie is the top contender, ordered six times more often than anywhere else. Even more surprising are the regional quirks in the Pacific Northwest, where Marionberry Pie is a standout thanks to the area's local berry—another example of how geography influences pie choices.

The Rise of the Pie Delivery Service

One of the most interesting aspects of this trend is how much people are relying on delivery services like Instacart to satisfy their pie cravings. As online grocery shopping becomes more commonplace, it's not just about convenience but also about the ability to access specific pies with the tap of a button. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, Pi Day celebrations, or a random craving, consumers are increasingly turning to online platforms to indulge in their favorite pies.

Instacart’s data also shines a light on pie-buying habits in major cities. In places like Portland and Seattle, Marionberry Pie reigns, while in Atlanta, Detroit, and Memphis, Sweet Potato Pie takes top honors. And in cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore, Lemon Meringue Pie leads the charge, revealing the diverse palates across the U.S.

Why Apple Pie Still Holds the Crown

So, why does apple pie remain number one? Perhaps it’s the nostalgia factor—apple pie has been a staple in American kitchens for centuries. Its simplicity, the perfect combination of tart apples, sugar, and spice, makes it a universally loved dessert. Whether enjoyed on a summer evening or at Thanksgiving dinner, apple pie manages to evoke a sense of comfort and tradition, appealing to a wide range of tastes. As we continue to see an evolution of flavors and pie preferences, apple pie has proven it’s not just a seasonal dessert but a year-round indulgence.