The debate over Thanksgiving desserts has taken a flavorful turn, as sweet potato pie and pumpkin pie vie for the title of the ultimate holiday treat. In Flowood, Mississippi, local bakeries like Sugar Magnolia Takery are at the center of this culinary clash, with patrons passionately weighing in on their preferred choice.
At Sugar Magnolia Takery, owner Elizabeth Arnold highlights the distinct characteristics of each pie. “Sweet potato is sweeter, made with white and brown sugar, whereas pumpkin pie is less sweet and spicier,” she explains. While both pies share a similar appearance and texture, regional preferences significantly influence which dessert graces the Thanksgiving table.
Lori Robinson, a loyal customer, unequivocally declares her allegiance to pumpkin pie, recalling her mother’s tradition of baking it every holiday season. In contrast, another customer, Xavier Pittman, champions sweet potato pie, reflecting a common trend in southern bakeries where sweet potato often outsells its pumpkin counterpart.
Cultural Roots and Regional Preferences
According to culinary historian Adrian Miller, sweet potato pie holds a special place in Southern culture. “If there were to be a Mount Rushmore of soul food desserts, sweet potato pie would definitely be there,” he asserts. This popularity is linked to the deep cultural and historical roots of sweet potatoes in the South, a connection that stems from the era of slavery. Sweet potatoes were a staple for many enslaved individuals, providing a familiar and accessible food source.
The origins of both pies can be traced back to European carrot pie, but the distinct recipes evolved in the United States. The first known recipe for pumpkin pie appeared in the nation’s inaugural cookbook, published in 1796 by Amelia Simmons. This long-standing tradition has solidified pumpkin pie’s association with northern Thanksgiving celebrations.
While sweet potato pie is often viewed as a favorite among Black Southerners, pumpkin pie is typically linked to white Northerners. Yet, this division oversimplifies a nuanced culinary landscape. Michael W. Twitty, a culinary historian with deep Southern roots, emphasizes the importance of understanding these dishes as part of a broader American identity.
“Good-natured ribbing between regions and cultures is fun, but it should not define who we are,” Twitty explains. His own childhood Thanksgivings included a mix of both pies, highlighting how individual family traditions can transcend regional stereotypes.
The Availability Factor
Access to ingredients played a significant role in the popularity of these desserts. Sweet potatoes thrived in the South, where early Americans had ample access to the vibrant orange varieties we recognize today. Conversely, Northern regions often had white-fleshed sweet potatoes with a mealy texture, which limited their appeal.
Miller notes that while slavery may have influenced the culinary divide, the simpler explanation lies in the availability of these ingredients. With both sweet potatoes and pumpkins readily available in the South, it is no wonder that sweet potato pie became a cherished dessert among Southern families.
As the Thanksgiving season approaches, the debate between sweet potato and pumpkin pie is sure to continue. Both desserts are not only delicious but also steeped in personal and cultural significance. Whether one prefers the warmth and spice of pumpkin or the sweetness of sweet potato, it is clear that both pies will remain integral to holiday celebrations across the United States.
Ultimately, this culinary debate reflects the rich tapestry of American history and identity, reminding us that our food choices are often intertwined with our cultural heritage.