Why Illinois Refuses to Ditch Its Go-To Thanksgiving Dessert

The dessert I save the most room for every Thanksgiving.  I don't know what it is, but I'm obsessed with pumpkin pie only during the month of November.

I mean, it is one of the most sought-after pies during fall and winter in Illinois.  It makes me think of cozy sweaters, changing leaves, and that first crisp fall day (which has already come and gone).

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There's actually a pretty cool story behind why we are so obsessed with pumpkin pie.

Believe it or not, it's Illinois's official state pie.  Back in 2015, Governor Bruce Rauner made it official, giving a "sweet" nod to one of our state's biggest claims to fame.  Why pumpkin, you ask?  Illinois doesn't just grow pumpkins... we dominate across the state.

Why Illinois Refuses to Ditch Its Go-To Thanksgiving Dessert

Illinois is responsible for producing more pumpkins than anywhere else in the country.  Nearly 95% used for processing come straight from Illinois fields.  Next time you pop open a can of pumpkin puree, chances are it came from right here in our backyard.

It makes sense, then, that pumpkin pie has become the dessert that defines fall in Illinois. It's more than just a slice of pie, it's tradition, comfort, and a little piece of home.  Whether you're grabbing a slice at midnight, baking one for Thanksgiving, or grabbing a mini pie at the store, it totally reminds us that the holidays are in full swing.  There's no taste like it!

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There's something really magical about that first bite, too.  Especially when it's warm and straight out of the oven.  If not pumpkin pie, what other dessert would rank #1 in your eyes?