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Everyday Pie

What to Bake for the Fourth of July

Published 17 days ago • 2 min read

Kelli Avila

July 17, 2026

Hello and happy tuesday!

The best desserts for the Fourth of July are simple to serve and portable. And if they're pie, even better.

Here are some of my favorites!

Apple Pie Bars

As American as apple pie, but even easier to make. Double the recipe, bake it in a larger pan, and you'll have plenty to share at your Fourth of July gathering.

Cherry Hand Pies

Cherry pie just feels right for America's birthday. These hand pies pack all that classic flavor into a portable dessert that's easy to serve and even easier to share. They can be assembled and frozen well ahead of time. Bake from frozen!

More Hand Pie Recipes:

No-Bake S'mores Cake

If it's too hot to turn on the oven, this one has you covered. It captures everything people love about classic campfire s'mores in a simple no bake dessert that's easy to make ahead.

More No Bake Cakes:

Blue Ribbon Blueberry Pie

If you're from the Northeast like me, blueberry pie is almost as much of a classic as apple, especially when it's made with wild Maine blueberries. This recipe truly is blue ribbon worthy, whether you're hoping to win a Fourth of July pie contest or simply win over everyone gathered in your own backyard.

More Blueberry Recipes

Strawberry Cherry Slab Pie

If you're feeding a crowd, this is the pie I'd make. Sweet strawberries and cherries are tucked into a flaky slab pie that's easy to slice into squares, making it perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings. This recipe was also mentioned in a fun article from the Boston Globe about being a cake or pie person. You might have guessed what I am, but what about you?

I've been sharing recipes on my website for almost six years now, and I think every year I've mentioned how much I loved the Fourth of July as a child. Maybe it was the pie, maybe it was the neighborhood block party, or maybe it was simply because it still felt like the start of the summer.

In recent years, my relationship with this holiday has become a little more complicated. But this year, as we celebrate America's 250th birthday, I've found myself thinking more about what makes this country worth celebrating. I believe we're stronger because of our differences, not despite them. I believe kindness, generosity, curiosity, and the freedom to be ourselves are values worth celebrating and protecting.

So this weekend, I'll gather with the people I love (in VT!), bake a pie or two, and celebrate both where we've been and the country we're still trying to become.

Happy Independence Day!

Everyday Pie

Kelli Avila

I'm Kelli, the creator of Everyday Pie—a baking site where I share approachable, repeatable recipes for pie, pastry, and more.

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