There’s nothing like a triptofane induced food coma to make you crave sweets. From pies to cupcakes, we scouted out the perfect finales to your Thanksgiving feast.
One of the best things about Carlos Bakery’s Ridgewood location is that we don’t have to run down to ‘Boken to snag their treats. After hearing that the bakery sells over 7,000 pies (best sellers are the pumpkin and apple) for Thanksgiving we knew their pie would be worth loosening the belt buckle for. (12 Wilsey Sq, Ridgewood, (201) 962-9080, pies $21.95 order early for guaranteed service)
Insider’s know that Janice A Bistro’s pies harken memories of granny’s- home-made, deep dish and bursting with flavor. We liked the Apple Crumb and Pecan. (pies start at $28 call for options and ordering details, 23 Sheridan Avenue, Ho-ho-kus, 201-445-2666)
Cupcakes by Carousel shops will be serving their ever-popular Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie for the holiday. Light, sweet, and the perfect combination of two classic tastes. (Available for order or pickup in Englewood and Ridgewood locations.)
In our eyes, Balthazar Bakery can do no wrong. And just walking in the shop makes us feel (kindof) like we’re in the West Village. Their pumpkin pie was exactly as we expected: neat, presented in a reusable pie pan and flavorful- with a flaky, buttery crust (ironically now made with trans fat-free butter). Regulars request their Sweet Potato Pie and Maple Pecan Torte by the box. (from $22, 214 S. Dean St., Englewood, 201-503-9717, must reserve by Monday, November 25th for pickup on Wednesday or Thursday)
Oh Abma’s, your Harvest Pie was like a fall harvest in our mouth. Loaded with apricots, apples, cranberries and tons of spices, it’s a great choice for those who can’t decide on just one flavor. ($14.99, 700 Lawlins Road, Wyckoff, 201-891-0278, must order by Saturday, November 23rd)
Best deal in town is Whole Food’s Paramus’ “Kim’s Pumpkin Bundt Cake”. We’re not sure who “Kim” is, but she knows how to make a moist, delicious Bundt. Visit the store or call to order from their Thanksgiving pop up shop and you’ll be surprised to find home-made items that taste more “farmers market” than mass produced. ($6.99, Bergen Town Center, Paramus, 201.226.1244)
Want to buck the pie trend? We loved Baked in a Cup’s Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream and Caramel Drizzle- our bet is you will too. Check out the rest of their flavors on their webpage. (70 E. Main Street, Ramsey, 201-962-3377, call to order, pickup available on Thanksgiving Day)
For the “wow” factor, we can’t ignore Crumbs Bakeshop’s over-the-top creations. Their “Thanksgiving Taste Test” consists of 12 mini Autumn inspired, smile inducing, flavors (think Candy Caramel Apple or Harvest Pumpkin) that come perfectly packaged to give, or consume. ($19.95 for the mini-12pack, 123 East Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, 201-447-5800)