It’s that time of year again, when the subtle (or not-so-subtle) scent of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves starts to infiltrate everything from lattes to breakfast cereal. So we asked chef Mark McEwan to sample the best pumpkin spice–infused baked goods the city has to offer.
Toronto’s Best Pumpkin Spice Delights
Nice 'N' Cheesy
This cream cheese–filled, caramel-topped bun is McEwan’s favourite of the bunch. “I love cream cheese frosting. It has a nice balance and moisture level.”
$5, 711 Mt. Pleasant Rd.
It's Hip To Be Square
In addition to having the most dramatic pumpkin spice flavour of all the desserts, McEwan says this pumpkin pie square is “nicely creamy. It has good base. It’s a nice combination.”
$3.25, 10220 Yonge St., Richmond Hill
Raising The Bar
McEwan praises this bar’s sweet crumble and says it has “a good moisture level and good spice.” He also likes the treat’s texture.
$4.50, 1945 Avenue Rd.
Cupcake Craze
This cupcake was moist, with “an attractive presentation,” according to McEwan. He also says it has a good pumpkin spice flavour to it.
$3.25, 1970 Avenue Rd.
Fresh-Baked Pop Tart
This classic breakfast/anytime favourite re-imagined for the fall season. Its pumpkin filling is “creamy and nicely spiced,” says McEwan. “It’s a fun version of 1965 for me.”
$3.85, 859 College St.
Take A Loaf Off
McEwan says that this loaf is “a little more to the savoury side, which is nice. I like that.” He also thinks it would be an excellent base for decadent pumpkin spice French toast.
$5.50, 12 Cumberland St.