McDonald's discontinued its iconic deep-fried apple pie in the U.S. in 1992, replacing it with a baked version for perceived health reasons, despite customer preference for the original's sweet, cinnamon-spiced, soft-apple filling and flaky, crispy, deep-fried crust. While the baked pie offers sliced apples and a lattice top, it's considered inferior by many fans who miss the original's indulgent, turnover-style texture, though some international locations and special promotions (like in Hawaii) still offer the fried version.

Description of the Original Fried Apple Pie

Crust: A flaky, crispy, golden-brown exterior from deep-frying.

Filling: A gooey, sweet, cinnamon-spiced mixture with soft apple chunks.

Style: A turnover-style hand pie, served hot in a cardboard sleeve.

Why It Was Discontinued (U.S.)

Health Concerns: McDonald's switched to baking for a "healthier" option to appeal to changing consumer trends in the early 90s.

Lawsuits: A high-profile lawsuit over burns from the piping-hot fried pie also contributed to the decision.