The Story Behind an Icon: Our Journey with McDonald’s Apple Pie
When people think of McDonald’s most iconic menu items, the apple pie is always near the top of the list. Warm, familiar, and loved by generations, it’s a product that has stood the test of time.
What many people may not realize is that behind that iconic dessert is our story—a story rooted in family, resilience, and a moment of opportunity that changed everything.
Where We Began
Our story begins nearly a century ago in the kitchen of Cornelia Alabama “Bama” Marshall. What started as homemade pies sold locally quickly grew into something much bigger—built on determination, family values, and a commitment to quality.
In 1927, we officially became the Bama Pie Company. From the very beginning, our focus has been simple: create great products and take care of people.
That mindset continues to guide us today.
The Moment That Changed Our Future
In 1965, everything changed.
Our leader at the time, Paul Marshall, made what started as a simple cold call to a McDonald’s restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois. By chance, McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc was there that day.
Paul offered to fry our pies on the spot. That unexpected opportunity turned into something far greater than anyone could have imagined—it sparked a partnership that continues to this day.
It’s a moment we often reflect on, because it reminds us that boldness, preparation, and a willingness to show up can change everything.
A Partnership Built Over Generations
That single meeting led to a relationship with McDonald’s that has lasted more than 60 years.
Since the introduction of the McDonald’s apple pie in the late 1960s, we’ve had the privilege of helping deliver the quality, consistency, and taste that customers expect with every bite.
Over time, the product has evolved—from its original fried version to the baked pie introduced in 1992—but the goal has always remained the same: create something people love and trust.
Growing While Staying Grounded
Today, we’ve grown far beyond those early days, with operations that reach across the U.S., Europe, and China.
But growth has never meant losing sight of who we are.
We are still a family-founded, people-first organization. Our mission—“People Helping People Be Successful with Caring and Accountability”—continues to guide everything we do, from how we partner with customers to how we support our team members every day.
More Than Just a Pie
For us, the apple pie is more than a product. It represents:
- The courage to take chances
- The importance of relationships
- A commitment to quality
- And a belief that people are at the center of everything we do
It’s a reminder that what we create reaches millions of people, but how we create it matters just as much.
Looking Ahead
As McDonald’s continues to evolve and bring back fan-favorite menu items—including the return of the fried apple pie—we are proud to continue playing a role in that journey.
From a small kitchen in Texas to a global partnership, our story is proof that when you stay true to your values and invest in people, you can build something that lasts for generations.