North Dakota’s Chili Debate: Crackers, Cornbread, or Cinnamon Rolls?

Chili & Cinnamon Rolls: Will They Make an Appearance at the API Chili Cook-Off? 

The 44th Annual API Chili Cook-Off is happening this weekend in Williston, and I can’t help but wonder—will any teams serve cinnamon rolls alongside their chili? 

For many North Dakotans, chili and cinnamon rolls go hand in hand. If you didn’t grow up eating this combo, the idea of pairing a spicy, savory bowl of chili with a soft, sweet, frosting-covered roll might sound strange. But for those who did, it’s the ultimate comfort food—right up there with knoephla soup and caramel rolls. 

A School Lunch Staple 

While some claim the chili-and-cinnamon-roll pairing originated in Iowa, North Dakotans know it as a long-standing school lunch tradition. Dating back to at least the 1960s, when cafeteria meals were made from scratch, this meal was both filling and budget-friendly.

According to the Smithsonian Magazine, schools across the Upper Midwest—North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and parts of Montana—embraced the combo, and for many, the nostalgia is strong. 

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Why It Works 

At first glance, chili and cinnamon rolls might seem like an odd match, but people insist the flavors complement each other perfectly. The the sweet, spiced dough of a cinnamon roll balances the bold, hearty flavors of chili—kind of like adding a touch of cinnamon to a chili recipe for extra depth. Whether served side by side or dunked together, it’s a favorite that sparks strong opinions.

Will We See It at the Chili Cook-Off? 

With so many different chili styles on display at the API Chili Cook-Off, it’ll be interesting to see if anyone brings in the classic pairing. I have to admit—I’ve never tried this combo. But given how many people stand by it, there must be something to it.

So, Williston—who’s bringing the cinnamon rolls? I'll let you know if you spot them this weekend.