And just like that, Thanksgiving is around the corner. Whether you're hosting the big meal yourself or going to someone else's home as a guest, one way to ease the pressure is to leave the desserts to the pros.
Luckily, three uptown spots are offering an impressive selection of pies, tarts and cakes that go way beyond the usual pumpkin–but time is of the essence. Read on and be sure to make your pick before it's too late:
Order by Sunday, November 18 (for Tue 20 or Wed 21 pickup)
Although you won't find any typical Thanksgiving pies at this delectable Inwood pastry shop, do expect drool-worthy desserts with just a hint of traditional holiday ingredients. Two signature creations include the spiced pumpkin cake, soaked in spiced orange syrup and finished with cream cheese frosting and toasted pecans ($47.50), and the show-stopping chocolate cream tart, layered with caramel, chocolate ganache and spiced pecans ($29.50). The latter is so rich that it can easily serve 6 to 8 people even though it's only 7 inches round.
Order by Sunday, November 18
East Harlem's Dear Mama Coffee–soon to open a second huge space in West Harlem–is offering no less than three takes on Thanksgiving pie that are sure to delight. Those who prefer fruit can opt for the Rosemary Caramel Apple, a butter-crust apple pie finished with rosemary-kissed caramel; it also comes in a gluten-free version ($28). Then there's the Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake, an airy confection consisting of pumpkin cheesecake mousse cradled in a pretzel crust ($30). And for children of all ages? The S’mores Pie features an espresso-laced chocolate ganache in a spiced shortbread cookie crust and comes topped with torched bourbon marshmallow ($30). Whoa.
Orders must be placed 48 hours in advance
This beloved family-owned ice cream shop in Harlem is putting a delightfully frozen spin on Thanksgiving with two special pies you'll be pulling out of the freezer instead of the oven. Choose from the Sweet Potato Ice Cream Pie that's topped with a layer of decadent Toasted Homemade Marshmallow ($27.50) or the sophisticated Bourbon Pecan Ice Cream Pie, flavored with a hint of cardamom and sea salt ($30).
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