Pumpkin pie is a classic fall dessert, with its rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Many people enjoy pumpkin pie during the holidays, especially at Thanksgiving. But is this iconic dessert available year-round at McDonald’s? Let’s take a closer look at whether all McDonald’s restaurants carry pumpkin pie.
Availability of Pumpkin Pie at McDonald’s
The availability of pumpkin pie can vary from location to location. Here are some quick facts:
– McDonald’s pumpkin pie is a seasonal menu item and is usually only available for a limited time in the fall. It is not a permanent year-round offering.
– Only some McDonald’s locations carry pumpkin pie. It is not a standard menu item that every single McDonald’s is required to have.
– Pumpkin pie is considered a regional/local menu item. McDonald’s gives its franchises flexibility on some menu options based on local demand and preferences.
– So whether a specific McDonald’s restaurant sells pumpkin pie will depend on the region, the time of year, and individual franchise decisions.
When is pumpkin pie typically available?
While not all McDonald’s sell pumpkin pie, it does show up seasonally on many McDonald’s menus. Here is when you can typically find pumpkin pie:
– Early to mid-fall: McDonald’s tends to start offering pumpkin pie in September or October as a limited time seasonal treat. This aligns with the kickoff of pumpkin spice latte season and the autumn harvest.
– Thanksgiving season: Availability expands leading up to Thanksgiving, when demand for pumpkin flavored items peaks. Many McDonald’s make pumpkin pie widely available throughout November.
– Through December: Some locations carry pumpkin pie through the early winter and sell leftover inventory into December. But it usually disappears from menus by the end of the year.
So the pumpkin pie season at McDonald’s is concentrated in the fall months, but the exact timing can vary. Check with your local restaurants in September, October and November to find out if and when pumpkin pie is available.
Other pumpkin desserts at McDonald’s
If pumpkin pie isn’t on the menu, keep an eye out for these other pumpkin treats that may be available seasonally at McDonald’s:
– Pumpkin spice lattes: McDonald’s occasionally offers its own version of the pumpkin spice latte, made with espresso, milk, pumpkin pie flavor and spices.
– Pumpkin McFlurries: Some locations sell McFlurry ice cream desserts mixed with pumpkin pie filling and spices.
– Pumpkin muffins: Like the pies, pumpkin muffins are a fall bakery treat found at some McDonald’s.
– Donuts and baked goods: McDonald’s bakery items like donuts sometimes get a pumpkin makeover in the fall with pumpkin-flavored icings and fillings.
So while pumpkin pie isn’t guaranteed, check to see if your local McDonald’s offers any kind of pumpkin or pumpkin spice desserts during the autumn months.
What’s in McDonald’s pumpkin pie?
McDonald’s pumpkin pie consists of:
– Pumpkin pie filling – Made with pumpkin puree, condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and other spices. McDonald’s may use canned puree or prepare an in-house mix.
– Flaky pie pastry – Their pie crust is baked until crisp and golden. It likely uses ingredients like flour, butter, water, and sugar.
– Whipped cream topping – McDonald’s pumpkin pie usually comes topped with a swirl of sweet whipped cream.
Some customers feel McDonald’s pumpkin pie tastes comparable to homemade. It has a signature pumpkin spice flavor, rich custard-like filling, and crispy crust. But like any mass-produced menu item, quality can vary from place to place.
Nutrition facts
Based on online nutrition resources, here are the approximate nutrition facts for McDonald’s pumpkin pie:
| Serving size | 1 slice (106g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Protein | 3g |
Like most pies, it’s high in calories, carbs, and sugar. But it can be an occasional seasonal indulgence if enjoyed in moderation.
Tips for finding pumpkin pie at McDonald’s
Here are some tips to increase your chances of scoring McDonald’s pumpkin pie:
– Call ahead – Phone your local McDonald’s and ask if they have pumpkin pie before making the trip. That way you don’t waste a visit if they aren’t currently carrying it.
– Check around major fall holidays – Visit area McDonald’s in late October/early November to find locations offering pumpkin pie for Halloween and Thanksgiving.
– Look for pumpkin pie merchandising – If a McDonald’s has pumpkin pie, they’ll likely advertise it on menu boards, drive-thru signs, and with in-store displays. Let the decor be your guide.
– Ask about whole pies – Some McDonald’s may not sell pumpkin pie by the slice but can sell you a whole pie with advanced notice. Ask at the counter.
– Try multiple locations – One franchise turning you down doesn’t mean they all will. The availability can literally vary from one street to the next.
– Download the app – Apps like McDonald’s let you browse for seasonal items near you. You may find pumpkin pie when you search the desserts menu.
Alternatives to McDonald’s pumpkin pie
If you strike out finding pumpkin pie at McDonald’s, here are some alternative places to find that familiar pumpkin pie flavor:
Grocery store pies
Grocery stores like Walmart, Whole Foods, and Kroger carry fresh baked or frozen pumpkin pies year-round. Popular brands include Pillsbury, Sara Lee, and Marie Callender’s. Read the reviews and choose a top rated frozen pie for convenience.
Bakeries
Local bakeries offer fresh pumpkin pies in the fall. The quality is often higher than grocery store versions. Check reviews and ask neighbors for bakery recommendations.
Coffee shops
Starbucks, Dunkin’ and other coffee shops sell thick, creamy slices of pumpkin pie from late August through December. Add a dollop of whipped cream for the full pumpkin pie experience.
Restaurants
Sit-down restaurants like Cracker Barrel, Bob Evans and Shoney’s serve fresh baked pumpkin pie on their dessert menus during the fall season. Order one after your meal for an autumn treat.
Conclusion
While not universally available, pumpkin pie can be found at select McDonald’s locations during the fall months when pumpkins are in season. Supply varies by region and timing. Your best bet is checking with your local McDonald’s around Halloween and Thanksgiving to see if they have pumpkin pie. If not, grocery stores, bakeries, coffee shops and restaurants can satisfy your pumpkin pie craving instead. With some perseverance, you can get your hands on this iconic autumn dessert.