Unearth The Voyage
Embrace the flavors of fall with a delightful tour of New England’s most enticing pumpkin desserts. From creamy, spiced creations to comforting baked goods, these treats promise an autumnal charm in every bite. Discover how local bakeries and eateries transform the humble pumpkin into culinary masterpieces, celebrating the season’s bountiful harvest and the region’s rich culinary traditions.
1. Maine’s Iconic Pumpkin Whoopie Pies (Freeport, ME)
Maine is famed for its whoopie pies, and in Freeport, Wicked Whoopies elevates this classic with a seasonal twist. Their pumpkin version features a spiced pumpkin cake encasing a fluffy vanilla filling—a nod to both fall flavors and Maine’s culinary heritage. Imagine biting into this treat after a crisp autumn walk, the warmth of spices mingling with the coolness of the cream. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that captures the essence of New England’s autumn. Made official as Maine’s state treat in 2011, it embodies local pride and tradition.
2. Vermont Pumpkin Creemee (statewide)
In Vermont, the soft-serve “creemee” beloved by locals takes on a pumpkin flavor during fall, offering a creamy, indulgent way to enjoy the season’s bounty. As the leaves turn, stands across the state serve this autumnal delight, often flavored with apple-pumpkin spice. Whether enjoyed on a foliage tour or as a sweet afternoon treat, the pumpkin creemee is a quintessential Vermont experience. Use the official Creemee Locator to find your nearest stand, and savor the simple pleasure of this seasonal specialty amidst the stunning landscapes.
3. Pumpkin Ice Cream at Kimball Farm (MA & NH)
Kimball Farm, a cherished roadside institution, introduces pumpkin ice cream each fall, along with flavors like Gingersnap Molasses. Each scoop carries the essence of the season, perfect for those lingering warm days as autumn settles in. Whether you’re stopping by their Massachusetts or New Hampshire locations, this creamy delight pairs perfectly with scenic views and crisp air. It’s a delicious way to celebrate the changing seasons, providing a sweet reminder of simpler times with every spoonful.
4. Caramel Pumpkin Cheesecake Donut at Union Square Donuts (Boston area, MA)
Union Square Donuts brings a luxurious twist to the classic donut with their Caramel Pumpkin Cheesecake creation. This seasonal favorite combines the soft, brioche-style doughnut with a decadent pumpkin-cheesecake filling. Each bite is enveloped in caramel glaze and topped with gingersnap crumble, making it an indulgent autumn treat. Its popularity grows each fall, drawing both locals and tourists eager to experience this unique flavor. The donut’s rich textures and flavors capture the essence of autumn in New England.
5. Pumpkin Donuts at Kane’s Donuts (Saugus & Boston, MA)
Kane’s Donuts in Massachusetts celebrates fall with an array of pumpkin-flavored offerings. From pumpkin-beer glazed donuts to gluten-free pumpkin spice variants, there’s a flavor for every palate. Each donut is crafted with care, showcasing the rich flavors of the season. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Kane’s offers a taste of autumn that is both nostalgic and contemporary. This blend of tradition and innovation makes their pumpkin donuts an essential part of the New England fall experience.
6. Pumpkin Ice-Cream Flavors at Ferris Acres Creamery (Newtown, CT)
In Newtown, Connecticut, Ferris Acres Creamery crafts unique pumpkin ice-cream flavors that draw visitors from far and wide. Choose from their Pumpkin Pie or Oh Snap! Pumpkin Cookies & Cream varieties—each scoop offering a fresh take on traditional autumn flavors. The creamery’s idyllic farm setting enhances the experience, making it a perfect autumn outing. Known for their creative flavors and quality ingredients, Ferris Acres turns pumpkin into a deliciously novel treat, capturing the essence of fall in New England.
7. Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie at Ellie’s (Providence, RI)
Ellie’s in Providence offers a sophisticated take on pumpkin desserts with their Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie. This elegant creation features a silky pumpkin cheesecake filling nestled within a shortbread or wheat-free crust, depending on your preference. Topped with chantilly cream, it’s a perfect treat for those seeking a refined, yet comforting dessert. The pie’s delicate balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for both locals and visitors looking to experience Rhode Island’s autumnal charm in a single bite.
8. Pumpkin Cheesecake at Pastiche Fine Desserts (Providence, RI)
At Pastiche Fine Desserts in Providence, the arrival of fall heralds the return of their much-loved pumpkin cheesecake. This dessert combines a creamy, spiced filling with a crunchy pecan topping, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Known for their exquisite desserts, Pastiche delivers a classic yet innovative autumn treat that has become a seasonal staple. Each bite is a celebration of New England’s fall bounty, offering a taste of comfort and tradition in the heart of the city.
9. “Famous” Pumpkin Whoopie Pies at Gould Hill Farm (Contoocook, NH)
Gould Hill Farm in Contoocook, New Hampshire, is renowned for its “Famous” Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. These delectable treats, featuring a rich pumpkin cream filling between two moist cakes, are perfect post-apple picking indulgences. Visitors flock to this orchard bakery for the quintessential fall experience, savoring the whoopie pies while taking in the stunning foliage views. The farm’s picturesque setting and dedication to quality make its pumpkin whoopie pies a cherished autumn tradition, capturing the essence of New Hampshire’s seasonal offerings.
10. Flour Bakery’s Pumpkin Pie (Boston, MA)
Flour Bakery in Boston is celebrated for its pumpkin pie, a seasonal delight that draws patrons for its deeply spiced custard and creamy whipped topping. This pie perfectly embodies the warmth and coziness of autumn, offering a taste that’s both familiar and exciting. Whether enjoyed by the slice or whole, it’s a testament to Flour Bakery’s commitment to quality and flavor. The pie’s rich textures and balanced spices make it a must-try for anyone seeking a quintessential Boston fall treat.
11. Two Fat Cats’ Pumpkin Whoopie Pie (Portland, ME)
Two Fat Cats Bakery in Portland, Maine, takes the whoopie pie to new heights with their pumpkin version, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This classic New England treat, with its soft pumpkin cakes and sumptuous filling, reflects the bakery’s dedication to quality and tradition. It’s a beloved autumn offering that has even caught the attention of national food media. Each bite is a taste of Maine’s cozy fall atmosphere, making it a delightful addition to the season’s culinary repertoire.
12. Grocery Ringer: Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Caramel Kringle (regional stores)
Trader Joe’s delights New England shoppers each fall with their Pumpkin Caramel Kringle. This flaky pastry, filled with spiced pumpkin and drizzled with caramel icing, is a seasonal favorite that quickly flies off the shelves. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, it embodies the comforting flavors of autumn in a convenient, ready-to-eat form. With its deliciously rich filling and light, crisp crust, the kringle captures the essence of seasonal indulgence, offering a taste of festive, autumnal delight.
