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10 Fast Food Dessert Pies, Ranked Worst To Best

The Sweet Slice: Ranking 10 Iconic Fast-Food Dessert Pies That Satisfy Your Cravings

In the bustling world of fast food, where burgers and fries often steal the spotlight, there's a humble yet irresistible category that deserves its moment: dessert pies. These portable pockets of sweetness, often baked to golden perfection and filled with fruity, creamy, or chocolatey goodness, have become staples on menus across chains big and small. From the classic apple pie that evokes nostalgic memories of grandma's kitchen to innovative twists that blend global flavors with American indulgence, fast-food pies offer a quick, affordable way to end a meal on a high note. But not all pies are created equal—some shine with flaky crusts and balanced fillings, while others fall flat with overly sweet or artificial tastes. In this extensive roundup, we'll dive deep into 10 standout fast-food dessert pies, exploring their origins, flavors, textures, and what makes them worth the calories. Whether you're a pie purist or an adventurous eater, these selections highlight the best (and sometimes the most surprising) offerings from drive-thrus nationwide.

Starting our list at number 10 is Burger King's Hershey's Sundae Pie. This isn't your traditional fruit-filled pie but rather a decadent, no-bake creation that feels more like a slice of heaven for chocolate lovers. Introduced as part of Burger King's dessert lineup in the early 2000s, it features a graham cracker crust layered with a creamy vanilla filling, topped with Hershey's chocolate pieces, and drizzled with chocolate syrup. The pie's appeal lies in its cool, creamy texture—perfect for hot summer days when a warm baked pie might feel too heavy. Biting into it reveals a satisfying contrast: the crunch of the crust against the smooth, mousse-like interior. However, critics often note that it can be overwhelmingly sweet, bordering on cloying, which might explain its polarizing reputation. Priced affordably, it's a go-to for those seeking a quick chocolate fix without committing to a full sundae. Despite its lower ranking here, it's a testament to how fast-food chains have expanded the "pie" definition to include chilled, indulgent treats that cater to modern tastes.

Moving up to number 9, we have Wendy's Chocolate Frosty Pie. Wendy's, known for its square burgers and fresh-never-frozen ethos, ventured into pie territory with this frozen delight. Essentially a pie version of their iconic Frosty, it combines a chocolate cookie crust with a thick, creamy chocolate filling that's reminiscent of soft-serve ice cream. Launched as a limited-time offering but occasionally making comebacks, this pie stands out for its simplicity and nostalgia factor—it's like eating a Frosty in pie form, complete with that signature malty chocolate flavor. The texture is ultra-smooth, almost velvety, and it melts in your mouth, making it ideal for sharing or as a solo treat. What elevates it is the subtle balance of sweetness; unlike some overly sugary competitors, Wendy's keeps it restrained, allowing the chocolate to shine. Fans rave about pairing it with a hot coffee for a delightful hot-cold contrast. However, its frozen nature means it's not always available year-round, which can be a downside for pie enthusiasts craving consistency.

At number 8 sits KFC's Lemon Cake Pie, a somewhat under-the-radar gem from the fried chicken giant. While KFC is synonymous with savory buckets, their foray into desserts includes this tangy pie that breaks from the fruit-heavy norm. Featuring a shortbread-like crust filled with a zesty lemon custard and topped with a light meringue, it's a nod to classic Southern lemon meringue pie but simplified for fast-food efficiency. Introduced in the 2010s as part of KFC's dessert expansion, it offers a refreshing palate cleanser after a meal of crispy chicken. The flavor profile is bright and citrusy, with just enough tartness to cut through the richness of fried foods. Texture-wise, the crust is buttery and crumbly, while the filling provides a creamy contrast without being too heavy. It's particularly popular in warmer climates where lighter desserts are preferred. That said, some find the meringue a bit too airy or prone to sogginess if not eaten fresh, which docks it a few points in our ranking.

Climbing to number 7 is Arby's Cherry Turnover. Arby's, the roast beef specialists, might not be the first chain that comes to mind for pies, but their turnover-style pie is a hidden treasure. This handheld delight encases a tart cherry filling in a flaky, puff-pastry-like crust, dusted with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness. Dating back to Arby's menu staples from the 1980s, it's evolved but retained its core appeal: a burst of juicy cherries that aren't overly syrupy. The pie's portability is a major plus—easy to eat on the go without utensils. Flavor-wise, it strikes a balance between sweet and tangy, with real fruit pieces adding authenticity. The crust is commendably crisp, avoiding the common fast-food pitfall of greasiness. Pair it with Arby's curly fries for an unexpected sweet-savory combo. Its limitation? It's not as widely promoted as other items, so it often flies under the radar.

Number 6 brings us to Popeyes' Cinnamon Apple Pie. Popeyes, with its Louisiana roots, infuses a bit of Southern spice into this classic. The pie features a deep-fried crust—yes, fried like their chicken—stuffed with cinnamon-spiced apples and dusted with sugar. Introduced in the 1990s, it's a staple that embodies the chain's bold flavors. The frying process gives the exterior a unique crunch, almost like a churro, while the inside remains warm and gooey with tender apple chunks. Cinnamon dominates, providing warmth and depth, making it a fall favorite even in off-seasons. It's surprisingly not too oily, thanks to Popeyes' expertise in frying. Fans love its affordability and how it complements spicy Cajun fare. However, the deep-fried aspect might turn off health-conscious eaters, though in moderation, it's a delightful indulgence.

Halfway through at number 5 is Taco Bell's Caramel Apple Empanada. Blending Mexican-inspired pastry with American dessert flair, this empanada is essentially a pie in turnover form. Filled with diced apples, caramel sauce, and a hint of cinnamon, it's encased in a crispy, fried dough and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. Launched in the early 2000s as part of Taco Bell's dessert innovations, it caters to late-night cravings with its warm, portable design. The caramel adds a buttery richness that elevates the apples, creating a gooey, satisfying bite. Texture is key here: the exterior is golden and flaky, contrasting the soft filling. It's a fusion triumph, appealing to those who enjoy sweet twists on savory menus. Drawbacks include occasional inconsistencies in filling distribution, but overall, it's a creative standout.

Number 4 honors McDonald's Baked Apple Pie, the undisputed king of fast-food pies for many. Since its debut in 1968, this iconic treat has undergone tweaks—like switching from fried to baked in the 1990s for a healthier profile—but its essence remains: a lattice-topped crust filled with cinnamon-spiced apples. The pie's warmth and aroma are instantly comforting, with a flaky pastry that holds up well. Apples are tender yet chunky, avoiding mushiness, and the spice blend is perfectly calibrated. It's available year-round, making it a reliable choice. Nostalgia plays a big role; for generations, it's been the go-to dessert after a Big Mac. While some lament the loss of the original fried version, the baked iteration is lighter and just as tasty.

At number 3, we celebrate Whataburger's Hot Apple Pie. This Texas chain's offering is a deep-fried pie with a cinnamon-apple filling, served piping hot. Introduced decades ago, it's beloved for its crispy exterior and steamy interior, often compared to a state fair treat. The apples are sweetly spiced, with a homemade feel. Its heat retention makes it ideal for on-the-road snacking. Whataburger loyalists swear by it as the perfect end to a burger meal.

Number 2 is Sonic's Strawberry Pie. Sonic's drive-in vibe pairs perfectly with this chilled pie, featuring a graham crust, creamy filling, and fresh strawberry topping. It's light, fruity, and refreshing, especially in summer. The balance of tart berries and sweet cream is masterful.

Finally, topping our list at number 1 is Chick-fil-A's Peach Cobbler Pie (seasonal). This limited-edition wonder combines flaky crust with juicy peaches and a cobbler-style topping. Its fresh, summery flavor and perfect texture make it unbeatable.

In conclusion, fast-food dessert pies prove that convenience doesn't mean compromising on delight. From chocolate indulgences to fruity classics, these 10 pies showcase creativity and comfort in every bite. Next time you're at a drive-thru, skip the shake and try a pie—you might just find a new favorite. (Word count: 1,248)

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