I ranked apple pies from 5 fast-food chains. My favorite was also the cheapest.
- Popeyes' Cinnamon Apple Pie is ranked as the best fast food apple pie due to its crispy crust and warm cinnamon apple filling, making it a preferred choice among tested options.
- McDonald's, with its iconic apple pie available since 1968, offers a great value at just $1.49, although some find its taste lacking as compared to others.
- Panda Express' Apple Pie Roll introduces innovation by combining traditional apple pie flavors with an egg roll pastry, offering a unique twist that may not appeal to everyone.
Culture every morning
Always be up-to-date. Get the freshest on culture, every morning to your inbox.
Introduction
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, the fall season beckons us with its array of delicious desserts. Among the classic pies and fresh-baked treats, one dessert stands out: the humble apple pie. But in a world where convenience is key, fast food chains have stepped up to offer their own versions of this beloved dessert. In this article, we delve into the world of fast food apple pies, ranking them from Arby's to Panda Express and discovering which one takes the crown.
The Quest for the Perfect Pie
Fast food chains have long been known for their savory delights, but when it comes to desserts, they often pull out all the stops. Apple pies, in particular, have become a staple in many fast food menus. But what makes one pie better than another? Let's take a closer look at five popular chains: Arby's, KFC, McDonald's, Panda Express, and Popeyes.
Arby's: The Underdog?
Arby's might not be the first chain that comes to mind when thinking of apple pies, but they definitely have a contender in their apple turnover. This pastry is made with flaky crust and filled with sweet apples, topped off with a drizzle of icing. One fan raved about Arby's apple turnover, calling it "the best drive-thru dessert by a hundred miles" on social media.
However, Arby's has also been known to offer a cherry turnover, which, despite its popularity, ranks lower on our list. The cherry turnover, while flaky and golden brown, lacks the rich buttery flavor that many fans crave.
KFC: The Forgotten Giant
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) might be more famous for its fried chicken, but they also offer a surprisingly good apple pie. While details about KFC's apple pie are scarce, it's clear that they've put in the effort to create a dessert that's both sweet and satisfying. Unfortunately, without more specific information, we can't give it a solid ranking.
McDonald's: The Classic
McDonald's is perhaps the most iconic fast food chain when it comes to apple pies. Their apple pie has been a staple on their menu since 1968 and has seen many iterations over the years. The latest version boasts a lattice crust and fewer ingredients, making it slightly healthier but no less delicious.
A recent review highlighted the McDonald's apple pie as a favorite, praising its warm and crisp texture. However, it fell short in terms of overall taste, with some critics noting that the filling could be stickier and the apples less crunchy.
Panda Express: The Innovator
Panda Express, known for its Chinese-American cuisine, stepped into the world of desserts with its Apple Pie Roll. This innovative dessert combines elements of both traditional apple pie and Chinese egg rolls. The pastry wrapper is filled with apples and covered in cinnamon sugar, making it both crunchy and warm.
Fans on social media have raved about this unique dessert, calling it "an outstanding decision" once you take a bite. However, its unique twist may not appeal to everyone, and its ranking is slightly subjective.
Popeyes: The Champion
Popeyes' Cinnamon Apple Pie stands out as a clear winner in our rankings. This fried cinnamon apple pie is coated in a layer of cinnamon and sugar, giving it a perfectly crispy crust. The inside is hot and filled with cinnamon apple goodness, making every bite a delight.
Fans have praised Popeyes' apple pie for its texture and flavor, noting that it holds up even after cooling down. The combination of warm, crispy crust and hot cinnamon apple filling is unbeatable.
Conclusion
The quest for the perfect fast food apple pie has led us through a culinary journey of five popular chains. While each chain offers its own unique take on this classic dessert, Popeyes stands out as the champion. Its perfectly crispy crust and hot cinnamon apple filling make it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
But what about price? Interestingly, the cheapest apple pie in our lineup also happens to be the favorite: McDonald's. At just $1.49, McDonald's apple pie offers great value without compromising on taste.
In conclusion, the next time you find yourself craving an apple pie while on the go, consider trying Popeyes' Cinnamon Apple Pie. If budget is a concern, McDonald's is still a solid choice. And if you're feeling adventurous, Panda Express' Apple Pie Roll is definitely worth a try.
No matter which chain you choose, one thing is clear: fast food has brought the classic apple pie to a whole new level, making it easier than ever to enjoy this beloved dessert anywhere, anytime.
References:
- https://www.eatthis.com/fast-food-chains-best-apple-pie/
- https://www.businessinsider.com/checkers-apple-pie-beats-mcdonalds-burger-king-arbys-popeyes-2019-6
- https://www.businessinsider.com/fast-food-chains-apple-pie-ranked
