Nothing says autumn like a slice of homemade pumpkin pie. But why waste these colorful, crisp fall days with rolling your own dough and creating that pumpkin-pie filling? These places will satisfy your seasonal cravings by giving you that same homemade taste of autumn's quintessential dessert. Don't forget the whipped cream!
Hoosier Mama Pie Company
Everyone's favorite pie shop (seriously, we haven't heard one bad thing about this place) has your pumpkin pie needs covered with a $20 version that includes real cream, vanilla and spices. But you can also order up a number of other crusty autumn-centric treats, from a maple pecan pie ($22) to pear apple cranberry with walnut crumble ($20) to a pork apple sausage supper pie ($27). Order at least 48 hours in advance (more for Thanksgiving). Unfortunately, the shop is no longer accepting orders for Thanksgiving - you may be able to grab a pie at Green City Market on Wednesday, November 25.
Potash Brothers Supermarket (Gold Coast)
This Gold Coast market and deli offers pumpkin pies for $6.99 each, not to mention apple, pecan ($7.99), peach ($8.49) and Very Berry ($10.19).
Dinkel's
Thinking of making an impression this holiday by bringing an enormous 3-D butter cream cake shaped and "dressed" like a Thanksgiving turkey? Dinkel's can make that happen. Or maybe play it safe with nearly a dozen pie choices, including crowd-pleasers like Dutch apple, pecan or pumpkin. Just give them a day's notice for that unforgettable turkey cake.
Ann Sather (Belmont)
Although this spot is known for its ridiculously addictive cinnamon rolls, the pies here (available beginning November 23) are also smashing. Traditional pumpkin is available, but gets trumped by options like a walnut-chocolate chip pie and a tasty apple version. A nine-inch pie costs $12, and advance orders are recommended.
Whole Foods
Whistle while you shop. Because you can slide a pie into your cart along with fresh cranberries and the turkey you had to order so far in advance. The Whole Foods Bakehouse is well-stocked with the spiced custard classic that is pumpkin pie. Take note: This is one reasonable item at the store that won't put you in debt this year. And then stop by the South Loop location's grandiose wine and cheese shop and say goodbye to the money you saved.
Jewel
Never underestimate the power of Jewel's bakery. Beyond its knock-out chocolate chip cookies and surprisingly authentic baguettes, the store's cakes and pies make a great centerpiece for the holidays. And bonus, a pumpkin pie is only $2.99, no advance ordering, no hassle. Need we say more?
Roeser's Bakery
For nearly 100 years this family has been fattening up Chicagoans with its confectionery delicacies. Let the tradition roll this holiday with a pie from the Roeser's kitchen. Bring on the mince meat, the pecan, the sweet potato, the pumpkin and the apple pies. You can pick up a few this holiday. And there are oodles ready for pick-up.
Rolf's Patisserie
Last-minute errand runners take comfort: Rolf's is open from 6 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving. But there's no guarantee there will be much of a selection that day of those tasty Dutch cherry, peach, apple or pumpkin pies. So either try your luck or order up to three days in advance to be safe. The free coffee with every $1 purchase will offset the cost of the $18 deep-dish pies. Regular tin pies are just under $10.
Red Hen Bread
Why not go where the local chefs go to supply fresh bread to their dinner guests this holiday season? Stock up on rolls or hearty bread as well as an apple pie that will be the hit of the party. Instructions: Take your pie out of box and place it on a plate for effect. For a last-minute order of your pumpkin, pecan or fruit pie, Red Hen is open on Thanksgiving until noon.
Bleeding Heart Bakery
Tired of the old same old-same old? Order a pumpkin pie in a chocolate crust this year from the folks that bring you amazing pastries from an all-organic kitchen. Be green on the holidays, and it'll set you back less of the green stuff in your wallet than you'd expect from an organic bakery. Make sure to order at least 48 hours in advance, though.
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Be thankful for Centerstage Chicago's Thanksgiving Guide
Eat Out ~ Drink on the Eve
Get Cookin' ~ Volunteer and Give Back
Eat at O'Hare ~ Munch Near Midway
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