LACKAWANNA COUNTY, Pa. — The mixers are running, and the pie dough is being run through the sheet press. The Thanksgiving baking rush is on at Miller's Orchard and Farm Market in Scott Township.
"Everybody wants a pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving. Most people order a pumpkin and an apple, but we do a bunch of different varieties," said Amber Peregrim.
Thanksgiving marks the most significant holiday for pie orders at Miller's.
Owner Amber Peregrim says they have over 1,000 orders to fill and make extras for last-minute customers.
From prepping and seasoning the apples to filling the tins and topping each with crumbs, it is all hands on deck.
"We have a system; we know what we are doing, but it is just so many pies in a short amount of time. So we will start tomorrow at 4 a.m., and we will go around the clock until Wednesday night," explained Amber.
Miller's Orchard is a seventh-generation family-owned business. Amber's daughter, Lena, is the eighth generation and works alongside her mom.
"I've been doing this for as long as I can remember. I've been in the kitchen probably since I was 8 or 9, helping label cookies. The last 3 or 4 years, I've been making pies and learning how to flute. I really enjoy that," explained Lena.
As hectic as filling all the orders can be, the Peregrims say it's special to be a part of everyone's Thanksgiving traditions.
"We hope that we are a spot in the community where people want to come and be part of our family farm," said Amber.
"Going into Thanksgiving, it is crazy, then you look back, and it is like, look at those beautiful pies," said Lena
Miller's also makes other Thanksgiving desserts like apple dumplings, cookies, and apple cider donuts.
Miller's Orchards Farm Market opens at 10 a.m. on Wednesday in Lackawanna County.