This year marks the 40th anniversary of one of the most beloved and delicious innovations — the Pillsbury Toaster Strudel. What began as an experiment in the Pillsbury test kitchen has become a household staple and a pop culture icon, with its flaky layers, fruity fillings and signature icing.
The journey of Pillsbury Toaster Strudel began in 1982, when the product made its debut in test markets in Tucson, Ariz., and Binghamton, N.Y. The original four flavors (blueberry, raspberry, strawberry and creamy cinnamon) quickly took off, praised as a quality morning pastry that’s “good enough for grownups.”
Pillsbury Toaster Strudel reached national distribution in May 1985. Two new flavors, apple and cherry, launched that fall and since then, the unique flaky toaster pastry has hit shelves in over 50 flavors.
One of the most charming aspects of the Pillsbury Toaster Strudel is the “Strudel Doodle.” Using the icing included with each pastry, fans are encouraged to doodle their own designs during breakfast.
The “Strudel Doodle” gained in popularity, and over the years came to life in different ways, including the Doodle Dream Day contest in 2005. Fans could submit their designs online for a chance to win prizes ranging from $5,000 to a trip to New York City. Celebrities even got in on the fun as “celebrity doodlers.”
Today, the success of Pillsbury Toaster Strudel has spurred new product development like savory Toaster Scramblers. All varieties are made with real scrambled eggs and delicious cheese sauce wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. So, grab a Pillsbury Toaster Strudel and start your day off with a delicious morning bite!
