National Cherry Popover Day

Celebrated on 09/01/2026

Quick Fact

The cherry popover, a lighter and airier cousin of the Yorkshire pudding, rises dramatically in the oven due to high heat and steam. National Cherry Popover Day celebrates this unique pastry that puffs up like a balloon and is often served with sweet cherry compote. The day encourages home bakers to master the art of popover making, which relies on a simple batter of eggs, flour, milk, and salt.

Origins and Establishment of National Cherry Popover Day

National Cherry Popover Day was established in 2015 by the Cherry Marketing Institute (CMI), a U.S. organization representing cherry growers. The date, September 17, was chosen to coincide with the peak of the tart cherry harvest season. The holiday was created to promote the versatility of cherries in baking and to highlight the popover as a classic American pastry that pairs perfectly with cherry toppings.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially celebrated primarily through social media campaigns and recipes shared by the CMI, National Cherry Popover Day has grown into a niche food holiday embraced by baking enthusiasts and cherry lovers. Today, it is marked by home cooks sharing their popover creations online, using hashtags like #CherryPopoverDay. Some bakeries and restaurants offer special cherry popover menus, and the day is often used to educate about the health benefits of tart cherries, which are rich in antioxidants.

Facts & General Observations

• The United States produces over 370 million pounds of tart cherries annually, with Michigan being the top producer.
• Popovers originated in the United States in the 19th century, derived from English Yorkshire puddings.
• A single cherry popover contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the recipe and serving size.

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