“This year’s competition was one of the best ever,” said Mary Deatrick, executive director of the American Pie Council. “Our commercial and independent bakers really elevated their pies, and that yielded a huge number of blue ribbons.”

While fruit and berry flavors saw significant popularity, there were many winners with innovative inclusions, including liquor-infused flavors, such as Chocolate Bourbon Pecan and Rum-Laced Chocolate Pecan, and “sweet-meets-spice”, which included Hot Honey Peach and Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Pie.

“We showcased the best of the best this year,” Deatrick added, “and it’s already sparking ideas for next year’s competition.”