Nothing is more American than apple pie — and a friendly county fair contest to find the best baker around. The annual Stanislaus County Fair apple pie contest not only provides a means of competition, it also means a tasty homemade treat for hundreds of homeless and in-need families.
This contest asks bakers of all ages and skill levels to create their best apple pie and submit it for judging. Along with the thrill of competition, bakers also get to give to those in need. Each contestant must submit two pies — one for judging and one that will be donated to the United Samaritan Foundation’s lunch program.
“We need a lot more bakers this year,” said the contest’s sponsor, Dave Dubyak of Dubyak Chiropractic. “The more pies we enter this year the more people we can send them out to and help.”
The contest is open to all local bakers and service groups. Each entrant must register in advance at the Stanislaus County Fair. There is no entry fee. Judging will take place on the opening day of the fair, July 12.
This will be the 11th year for the apple pie contest at the Stanislaus County Fair. There are no restrictions on what ingredients can go into the pies — except, of course, there has to be apples.
“Over the years I’ve discovered that an award-winning pie lies in the presentation,” said Dubyak. “If it doesn’t look good, the score will reflect on it. Last year people got really creative with the presentation of their pies. Some added nuts, pecans and other decorative pieces.”
Whether the secret lies in appearance, a fluffy crust or the perfect apples, one thing is for certain, experience and technique works best when baking the perfect pie.
This year the judging panel will be made up of mayors from cities around the county, including Luis Molina from Patterson, Ed Katen from Newman, Matt Beekman from Hughson, Charlie Goeken from Waterford, and President of the United Samaritans board, John Rodgers. First prize is $100, with $50 going to the baker of the second place pie.
“It’s a win-win situation,” said Dubyak. “You’re helping out people in need and you could have the chance to win some money along the way.”
For more information about the pie contest, or to register, call the Stanislaus County Fair at 668-1333, visit stancofair.com or call Dubyak Family Chiropractic at 668-1944.
