McDonald's to Reintroduce Fried Apple Pie for America's 250th Birthday

McDonald's announced its intention to reintroduce its fried apple pies to most U.S. restaurants for a limited time, starting June 23, 2026. This marks the first time the fried version of the dessert will be widely available in the country in more than 30 years, coinciding with America's 250th birthday celebration.

The original fried apple pie was first launched by McDonald's in 1968, the same year as the Big Mac. Franchisee Litton Cochran from Tennessee developed the rectangular pie, which was served in a cardboard sleeve. In 1992, the company replaced the fried apple pie with a baked version in most of the U.S., a change reportedly made in response to growing consumer awareness regarding fat and cholesterol consumption. Despite this, the fried apple pie has remained on menus in some international markets, including Mexico, Australia, and China.

The baked apple pie contains 230 calories, which is 10 more than the fried version, according to McDonald's website. The company states it utilizes over 170 million American-grown apples annually in its U.S. stores.

Several other fast-food companies are also introducing special treats for the semiquincentennial. Burger King recently unveiled its Firecracker Cookie Pie, featuring a sugar cookie crust with red, white, and blue star-shaped sprinkles. Sonic is offering a red, white, and blue slush float for $2.50, and Hardee's has an iced Star-Spangled Biscuit with red and blue sprinkles.

To further mark the occasion, McDonald's plans to install a 35-foot-tall giant fried apple pie on Route 66 in Joliet, Illinois, near its Chicago headquarters. This installation is scheduled to remain in place until July 4, 2026.

According to Fortune, there is a Facebook group called "Bring Back the Original McDonald’s Fried Apple Pie" with 130 members.