McDonald’s is bringing back a long-lost menu item that hasn’t been widely available since the 1990s, and fans of the chain are already excited. While fast-food restaurants often rotate limited-time items—like Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza or KFC’s returning potato wedges—McDonald’s has built its own reputation around seasonal favorites such as the McRib and Shamrock Shake. Now, however, the company is reviving something even more unexpected: the Fried Apple Pie.
The Fried Apple Pie is a deep-fried version of McDonald’s classic dessert. It features a crispy, golden crust filled with warm apple and cinnamon filling. Unlike the baked version currently sold in many locations, this original recipe offers a crunchier texture and richer flavor that many longtime customers still remember. Its return is part of a limited promotional release tied to summer celebrations in select markets.
The dessert has a surprisingly long history. It was first developed in the 1960s by a McDonald’s franchise owner in Tennessee, with the recipe perfected by his wife. After becoming popular regionally and eventually nationwide, the fried version was discontinued in the early 1990s, leaving fans without it for decades.
Now, McDonald’s is bringing it back starting June 23 at participating locations across the United States. It will be available all day, meaning customers can enjoy it as a breakfast treat or dessert. However, the return is expected to be temporary, so fans are encouraged to try it while it lasts.