Best Thanksgiving Desserts: How Illinois Likes To Get Fat

ACROSS ILLINOIS — The Thanksgiving holiday is just days away, and if you’re looking to avoid being that person who shows up empty-handed, consider bringing what a new report described as the “most iconic dessert” in Illinois.

The Daily Meal took the time to research desserts synonymous with every state. Some were obvious — Key Lime, Boston Cream, Mississippi Mud pies all made the list for their respective states — but others were more obscure and invited discussion. Just as importantly, they’ll allow you to avoid being store-bought guacamole guy.

The most iconic dessert in Illinois is none other than brownie, the report said. Here’s what the authors had to say:

"Interestingly, pumpkins are the state fruit of Illinois, but brownies first made their appearance at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Note that popcorn is the official state snack and so a strong case for caramel corn could also be made here."

>> 'Brownie Decadence' recipe

If tasty brownies aren't available, you can always bring a classic apple or pumpkin pie, both staples of fall and Thanksgivings everywhere. Armed with the knowledge that they’re the most iconic desserts in Vermont and New Hampshire, respectively, you now have an excuse to bring them.

Feeling adventurous? Consider bringing some Blarney Stones or a possum pie. Blarney Stones are just pound cakes covered in decadent vanilla frosting and peanuts. They’re synonymous with Iowa and sold all over The Hawkeye State. Possum pies, meanwhile, are apparently a staple in Arkansas. The pies are filled with cream cheese and chocolate pudding, and are topped with whipped cream.

Your turn: What do you think is the most iconic dessert in Illinois? Tell us in the comments or on Facebook.

Seventeen pies made the list — 18 if you count Georgia’s famous peach cobbler — along with seven varieties of cakes. Five desserts feature chocolate and two were inspired by wither yogurt or ice cream.

If you find yourself scrambling for an emergency grocery run on “Turkey Day,” don’t worry, we got you covered. A host of stores will stay open, at least for a little while.

Patch national staffer Dan Hampton contributed to this report.

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