How to Find Vegan Bang Bang Pie in Logan Square

Logan Square, one of Chicago’s most vibrant and food-forward neighborhoods, has become a magnet for innovative culinary experiences — especially for those seeking plant-based indulgences. Among the rising stars in this dynamic food scene is the elusive yet unforgettable Vegan Bang Bang Pie. A creative twist on the classic Southern dessert, this pie marries creamy coconut-based filling, spicy-sweet chili-lime glaze, and a flaky, buttery vegan crust to deliver a flavor profile that surprises and satisfies. But finding it isn’t always straightforward. Unlike mass-produced desserts, Vegan Bang Bang Pie is often made in small batches by independent bakers, pop-up artisans, or vegan-centric cafes with limited distribution. This guide walks you through every step to locate, verify, and enjoy authentic Vegan Bang Bang Pie in Logan Square — whether you’re a local resident, a visitor, or a vegan dessert enthusiast chasing the next big flavor.

The importance of knowing how to find this dessert goes beyond mere curiosity. For many, vegan desserts represent more than dietary preference — they’re a statement of ethical consumption, environmental awareness, and culinary innovation. When a dessert like Vegan Bang Bang Pie is done right, it challenges the misconception that plant-based eating is restrictive or bland. Discovering it in Logan Square means connecting with a community of passionate makers who prioritize quality, creativity, and sustainability. This guide empowers you to navigate the local food landscape with confidence, ensuring you never miss out on this standout treat.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand What Vegan Bang Bang Pie Is

Before you start searching, you need to know exactly what you’re looking for. Vegan Bang Bang Pie is not a traditional pie found in most bakeries. It’s a fusion dessert that draws inspiration from the popular Thai-inspired “Bang Bang Chicken” dish, translating its signature spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet profile into a chilled pie format.

Typical components include:

• Vegan crust: Made with plant-based butter (like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance), gluten-free flour blends, or almond flour for a nuttier texture.
• Creamy filling: Often coconut milk-based, thickened with agar-agar or tapioca starch, and flavored with vanilla, lime zest, and a touch of maple syrup.
• Bang Bang glaze: A sauce combining vegan mayo (such as Just Mayo or Vegenaise), sriracha, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a splash of lime juice.
• Toppings: Toasted coconut flakes, crushed cashews, microgreens, or edible flowers for visual appeal and texture contrast.

Because this dessert is artisanal and often made in small quantities, it’s rarely labeled as “Bang Bang Pie” on menus. Look for descriptors like “Spicy Coconut Pie,” “Thai-Inspired Vegan Dessert,” or “Creamy Chili Lime Pie.”

Step 2: Map Out Vegan-Friendly Establishments in Logan Square

Start by compiling a list of vegan and vegan-friendly businesses in Logan Square. Use Google Maps and search terms like “vegan bakery Logan Square,” “plant-based dessert Chicago,” or “vegan pie near me.” Filter results by “open now” and “recent reviews” to prioritize active spots.

Key locations to investigate include:

• Avli Vegan Greek Kitchen – While primarily savory, they occasionally feature rotating vegan desserts.
• Plant Based Pizzeria – Known for their creative menu, they’ve offered seasonal vegan pies.
• Love & Fries – A vegan comfort food spot with dessert rotations.
• My Vegan Bakery – A dedicated vegan bakery with weekly specials.
• Green Zebra – A health-focused café that sometimes collaborates with local pastry chefs.

Don’t overlook independent pop-ups and farmers’ markets. Logan Square Farmers Market (held on Saturdays) often features vegan dessert vendors. Check their Instagram or website for vendor lists before visiting.

Step 3: Search Social Media for Hidden Gems

The most reliable source for Vegan Bang Bang Pie isn’t Google — it’s Instagram and TikTok. Vegan food creators in Chicago frequently post about limited-run desserts before they sell out. Search the following hashtags:

• VeganBangBangPie

• LoganSquareVeganEats

• ChicagoVeganDesserts

• VeganPieChicago

• PlantBasedPie

Look for posts from local food influencers like @ChicagoVeganEats, @TheVeganBakerChi, or @PlantBasedPalsChi. These accounts often tag the baker or shop and include exact locations and pickup times.

Also, join Facebook groups such as “Vegan Chicago Foodies” or “Chicago Plant-Based Eats.” Members frequently post “Today’s Special” threads where someone might announce, “Just baked Vegan Bang Bang Pie — 10 pies left, pickup at 3pm at my apartment in Logan Square.” These community-driven posts are goldmines for finding rare items.

Step 4: Contact Local Vegan Bakeries Directly

Don’t rely solely on websites or menus — many small bakers don’t update them regularly. Call or send a direct message to vegan bakeries in the area. Ask specific questions:

• “Do you currently offer a spicy coconut pie with a chili-lime glaze?”
• “Is Vegan Bang Bang Pie on your weekly rotation?”
• “Can I pre-order one for pickup this weekend?”

Be polite and mention you’re a fan of their work — this builds rapport. Bakers are more likely to respond to genuine interest than a generic “do you have vegan pie?”

Some bakeries operate on a pre-order system only. For example, My Vegan Bakery requires orders by Thursday for weekend pickup. Missing the cutoff means waiting another week.

Step 5: Visit During Peak Hours and Ask for the “Special”

When visiting a café or bakery, go between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekdays or 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekends. That’s when the daily dessert case is fully stocked.

Once there, don’t just look at the display. Ask the staff: “Do you have any special vegan desserts today? Something with a spicy-sweet glaze or Thai-inspired flavor?”

Staff members often know about hidden items not listed on the menu — especially if they’re made in-house. If the baker is present, ask if they made any new desserts that day. Personal interaction increases your chances of discovery.

Step 6: Check Online Pre-Order Platforms

Several platforms now connect local artisans with customers:

• Shopify-based stores: Many vegan bakers run their own online shops. Search “Vegan Bang Bang Pie Shopify” or browse Etsy for “Chicago vegan pies.”
• Uber Eats and DoorDash: Filter by “vegan” and search for “pie” or “dessert.” Some shops list items under creative names like “Spicy Coconut Dream Pie.”
• Local food co-ops: The Logan Square Co-Op occasionally features rotating vegan dessert vendors. Check their weekly newsletter.

Set up Google Alerts for “Vegan Bang Bang Pie Chicago” or “plant-based pie Logan Square” to receive email notifications when new listings appear.

Step 7: Join a Vegan Dessert Subscription Box

Some services deliver curated vegan desserts weekly or monthly across Chicago. Examples include:

• Plant Based Box – Features regional vegan desserts, including occasional Bang Bang-style pies.
• Chicago Vegan Treats – A subscription service run by local bakers. Past boxes included a vegan Thai-inspired pie.

Signing up gives you access to exclusive items before they’re listed publicly. You’ll also receive advance notice of pop-ups or collaborations.

Step 8: Attend Vegan Food Events and Festivals

Logan Square hosts several annual events that spotlight plant-based cuisine:

• Chicago Vegan Food Fest (held every June) – Features dozens of vendors, including dessert specialists.
• Logan Square Vegan Pop-Up Market (monthly, usually 3rd Saturday) – Local bakers bring limited-edition pies.
• Plant Based Chicago Meetups – Organized on Meetup.com; often include dessert tastings.

These events are the most reliable places to sample — and purchase — Vegan Bang Bang Pie. Vendors often sell out quickly, so arrive early and bring cash or a mobile payment app.

Best Practices

Be Specific in Your Queries

When asking about the pie, avoid vague questions like “Do you have vegan desserts?” Instead, describe it: “I’m looking for a chilled pie with a creamy coconut filling, a spicy-sweet glaze made with sriracha and vegan mayo, and a flaky crust.” This helps staff recognize the item even if it’s not on the menu.

Build Relationships with Bakers

Regular customers are often the first to hear about new creations. If you find a baker who makes Vegan Bang Bang Pie, become a repeat customer. Leave a thoughtful review, follow them on social media, and show genuine interest. Many artisans will notify loyal patrons before posting publicly.

Always Confirm Availability Before Traveling

Just because a bakery made the pie last week doesn’t mean they’re making it today. Always call or message ahead. A simple “Hi, I’m coming in at 2 p.m. — will you have the spicy coconut pie today?” saves time and disappointment.

Respect Limited Quantities

Vegan Bang Bang Pie is labor-intensive and made in small batches. If a baker says they only have two left, don’t argue or demand more. Instead, ask if they’ll make more next week — and put your name on a waiting list. This fosters goodwill and increases your chances of getting it next time.

Store and Serve It Properly

Once you purchase it, keep it refrigerated. Most vegan pies are not stabilized with eggs or dairy, so they’re more perishable. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of lime zest or toasted coconut. Pair with a cup of matcha or herbal tea to enhance the flavor experience.

Document and Share Your Find

Take a photo, write a review, and tag the business. Your post might help someone else find the pie. It also encourages the baker to continue making it. Community support is what keeps niche vegan desserts alive.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps and Websites

• HappyCow – The gold standard for finding vegan restaurants and bakeries worldwide. Filter by “desserts” and “Logan Square.”
• Instagram Explore – Search hashtags and use location tags to find real-time posts.
• Google Maps + Reviews – Sort by “recent” reviews to find mentions of new desserts.
• Meetup.com – Search “vegan dessert” in Chicago to find tasting events.
• Etsy – Search “vegan pie Chicago” to find local bakers offering mail-order options.

Essential Ingredients to Recognize

If you’re trying to identify Vegan Bang Bang Pie on a menu or in a photo, look for these keywords:

• Coconut milk or cream
• Agar-agar or tapioca starch
• Plant-based butter or oil
• Sriracha or chili-lime glaze
• Vegan mayo or cashew cream
• Maple syrup or coconut sugar
• Gluten-free crust or almond flour

These are telltale signs of an authentic vegan version. Traditional Bang Bang Pie uses dairy and eggs — so if you see “butter” or “eggs” listed, it’s not vegan.

Local Vegan Food Blogs and Podcasts

Follow these for insider updates:

• Chicago Vegan Magazine – Monthly features on local dessert creators.
• Plant Based Chicago Podcast – Episodes often interview vegan pastry chefs.
• My Vegan Life Blog – Weekly roundup of vegan desserts across the city.

Google Alerts Setup

Create a free Google Alert with the following search terms:

• “Vegan Bang Bang Pie Chicago”
• “Spicy Coconut Pie Logan Square”
• “Vegan Thai Dessert Chicago”
• “Plant-Based Pie Pop-Up Chicago”

Set alerts to send daily or weekly. You’ll be notified the moment someone mentions the dessert online.

Real Examples

Example 1: My Vegan Bakery – The First to Offer It

In early 2023, My Vegan Bakery, run by pastry chef Elena Ruiz, began offering Vegan Bang Bang Pie as a weekly special. She created it after a customer requested a “spicy-sweet pie inspired by Thai flavors.” Elena’s version uses house-made coconut whipped cream, a brown rice crust, and a glaze spiked with smoked paprika and lime. She posts her weekly menu every Monday on Instagram. In April 2024, she sold out of 40 pies in under two hours. Her post received over 1,200 likes and 87 comments from people asking when it would return.

Example 2: The Logan Square Pop-Up Series

Every third Saturday, a rotating group of vegan bakers hosts a dessert pop-up at the corner of Kimball and Pulaski. In June 2024, baker Marcus Tran brought a vegan version of Bang Bang Pie with a cashew-based filling and a chili-maple drizzle. He didn’t advertise it — he just brought 12 pies. Within 90 minutes, they were gone. One attendee posted a photo with the caption: “Found it. Just like the internet said. Best. Pie. Ever.” That post went viral in local vegan groups and led to a collaboration with a nearby café.

Example 3: The Mystery Vendor at the Farmers Market

A vendor named “Sweet Roots” appeared at the Logan Square Farmers Market in May 2024 with no signage or website. She sold a pie she called “The Fire & Cream.” It had a golden crust, a pale cream center, and a glossy red glaze. A curious customer asked about the ingredients — she confirmed it was vegan and described the sriracha-vegan mayo glaze. By the end of the day, she had sold out. She returned the next month with the same pie, now labeled “Vegan Bang Bang Pie.” Her story spread through word of mouth and social media.

Example 4: The Online Success Story

After a viral TikTok video of someone biting into a Vegan Bang Bang Pie at a pop-up, a home baker named Jasmine Lee began taking pre-orders via Instagram. She uses a secret recipe passed down from her Thai grandmother, adapted to be vegan. Within three months, she was shipping pies across Illinois. Her packaging includes a QR code linking to a video of her making the glaze. Her success shows how niche vegan desserts can scale through authenticity and community.

FAQs

Is Vegan Bang Bang Pie actually Thai?

No. The original “Bang Bang” flavor profile comes from Chinese-American cuisine, popularized by Thai-inspired restaurants in the U.S. The pie is a modern American vegan reinterpretation — not a traditional Thai dessert. But the flavor combination is inspired by Thai culinary elements like chili, lime, and coconut.

Can I make Vegan Bang Bang Pie at home?

Yes. Many recipes are available online. Key ingredients include full-fat coconut milk, vegan mayo, sriracha, lime juice, maple syrup, and a vegan pie crust. Baking it requires chilling time (at least 4 hours) to set properly. It’s easier than it looks — and more rewarding than buying it.

Why is it so hard to find?

Because it’s not mass-produced. It requires multiple components, artisanal preparation, and refrigerated storage. Most bakers make it only when they have the time and ingredients — often as a weekly special. Demand often outstrips supply.

Does it taste like regular Bang Bang Chicken?

It has the same flavor profile — creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy — but the texture is entirely different. It’s a chilled, smooth pie, not a fried protein dish. Think of it as the dessert cousin of Bang Bang Chicken.

Is it gluten-free?

Some versions are, but not all. Always ask if the crust is made with gluten-free flour. Many bakers offer both options — just specify your need when ordering.

How long does it last?

Stored in the refrigerator, it lasts 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze it (without glaze) for up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add the glaze just before serving.

Are there nut-free versions?

Yes. Some bakers use sunflower seed butter or oat flour crusts to avoid nuts. Always confirm allergen info — coconut is a tree nut allergen for some, though technically a fruit.

What’s the average price?

Expect to pay $28–$38 for a whole 9-inch pie. Individual slices are $8–$12. Prices reflect the cost of high-quality, organic, and specialty ingredients.

Can I order it for delivery outside Logan Square?

Some bakers ship nationwide using insulated packaging and dry ice. Check their website or ask if they offer shipping. Local delivery via DoorDash or Uber Eats is also available for select vendors.

Why should I care about finding vegan desserts like this?

Because they represent innovation in plant-based eating. Vegan desserts prove that ethical eating doesn’t mean sacrificing joy. Finding Vegan Bang Bang Pie in Logan Square means supporting local creativity, reducing environmental impact, and celebrating flavor without compromise.

Conclusion

Finding Vegan Bang Bang Pie in Logan Square isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth — it’s about participating in a movement. This dessert, born from the intersection of cultural fusion, vegan innovation, and artisanal craftsmanship, reflects the spirit of a neighborhood that values authenticity, creativity, and community. It doesn’t appear on every menu. It doesn’t get advertised on billboards. It thrives in whispers, Instagram posts, farmers’ market stalls, and the quiet dedication of bakers who refuse to compromise their values.

This guide has equipped you with the tools, strategies, and mindset to locate this elusive treat — not just once, but repeatedly. Whether you’re using Google Alerts, visiting pop-ups, or messaging local bakers directly, you’re no longer a passive consumer. You’re an active participant in the ecosystem that makes vegan excellence possible.

Remember: the next Vegan Bang Bang Pie you find might be the one that inspires someone else to start baking. Your curiosity, your questions, and your support matter. So go out there — ask for the special, follow the hashtags, show up early, and taste the innovation. Logan Square is waiting. And so is the pie.