McDonald's fan favourite returns to restaurants for holiday season

McDonald’s is already stepping into the festive season, and fans of the chain know this is the time of year when menus start shifting toward the sweet, the nostalgic, and the limited edition. With Christmas creeping closer, excitement has been mounting among customers who have been watching closely for hints about which temporary yet unforgettable favourites might return.

The fast food chain has been leaning into that anticipation, teasing seasonal treats and prompting speculation across social media and press announcements as diners hope for the comeback of a much-loved winter staple. As other iconic items prepare to reappear later this month in select US cities, the buzz surrounding McDonald’s seasonal lineup has only grown stronger.

Now, just past the point where fans can stand the suspense, the news has finally been confirmed.

The long-awaited Holiday Pie returns as McDonald’s ushers in festive favourites (McDonald's)

McDonald’s announced on 11 November that its fan-favourite Holiday Pie will return to restaurants nationwide from 14 November. The festive dessert features a creamy custard filling wrapped inside a flaky, doughy crust glazed in sugar and topped with mini rainbow sprinkles.

To mark its return, the company joked on its Menu Spotter: “Not to be biased, but it just might be the greatest gift you can get for yourself or your friends and family.”

The Holiday Pie, which first debuted in 1999, has grown into a seasonal classic and remains one of the brand’s most recognisable winter treats.

"The most wonderful time of the year indeed," one fan said on Instagram as it was announced.

"The holiday pie is my favvvvvvvvv!" another said.

A third wrote: "I haven’t been able to find the pie in years. Always keeping my fingers crossed and keeping an eye out."

The McRib joins the lineup, returning to select cities this November (PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP via Getty Images)

Its comeback also coincides with the return of another cult favourite: the McRib. The chain confirmed that the legendary sandwich will reappear from 17 November in select cities, including Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles and Dallas, while supplies last.

At the end of the Holiday Pie's segment on the Menu Spotter: "Grab your sled or head to the McDonald’s App to get your hands on the pie-tastic holiday goodness!"