Starting Our Thanksgiving Morning Pie Tradition

As a child, my grandmother often remarked that Thanksgiving breakfast should include pie. The concept stuck with me; it made sense since post-dinner, dessert was usually an afterthought due to fullness. Though my family never embraced it, I loved the idea.

Years later, with a child of my own, I wanted unique holiday traditions. Recalling grandma’s breakfast pie idea, I decided to give it a shot. To have pies ready by morning, Wednesday night was for baking — a perfect lineup: apple pie, pumpkin pie, and some fresh whipped cream.

A Tradition Starts and Evolves

When my son was 2, we tried it for the first time. After he fell asleep, I baked while enjoying the SNL Thanksgiving special — it all felt inherently right, setting the tone for our own holiday ambiance.

Resisting the urge to snack that night was tough, but saving it made breakfast feel special. On Thanksgiving morning, the Macy's Parade kicked off our day, and the homemade pies — full of apples and pumpkin — seemed like a reasonable breakfast.

Initially skeptical, my son relished the unexpected treat when encouraged. I paired my pie with coffee; his, with milk. The joy stemmed not just from the taste but from sharing an unconventional moment together. Without a doubt, this practice was here to stay.

Unforeseen Joys of Pie for Breakfast

Besides savoring the breakfast pie tradition, I stumbled upon another — a special holiday coffee: whipped cream crowned in a mug, with hot coffee poured over for a cappuccino-like delight. This ritual also channeled nostalgia as the SNL special played, now a yearly staple for me.

The tradition brought unexpected advantages, particularly in co-parenting. My son’s father and I split the day so he gets festive moments with both parents. Initially hard not being with my son all day, crafting rich, meaningful mornings helped ease that.

Starting the holiday with pie allowed a celebration in our shared time, easing the absence at dinner and highlighting special moments with each parent.

Our Sweet Thanksgiving Habit

Now, with my son aged 12, we've carried on the tradition faithfully. Occasionally, I bake a pecan pie, too. With my remarriage, this ritual expanded to include my husband, a fellow coffee enthusiast. Together, pie and coffee have become the heart of our Thanksgiving, with the rest of the day as a delightful afterthought.