If you have a sweet tooth and find yourself wandering the streets of Philadelphia, look no further for the ultimate guide to satisfy your dessert cravings. From creamy homemade gelato to mouthwatering artisanal cakes, this bustling city is a dessert lover’s paradise. With so many delectable options scattered across its diverse neighborhoods, Philadelphia offers a dessert experience like no other. Get ready to embark on a sugary adventure as you explore the best dessert spots this city has to offer.
Classic Desserts
Cheesecake
If you have a soft spot for creamy and indulgent desserts, then you can’t go wrong with a slice of cheesecake. This classic dessert has a rich and velvety texture that melts in your mouth with each bite. Whether you prefer a traditional New York-style cheesecake or a more adventurous flavor like chocolate or raspberry, Philadelphia is home to some incredible cheesecake options that will satisfy your cravings.
Apple Pie
There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of apple pie on a crisp fall day. With its flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, apple pie is a comforting and nostalgic dessert that never fails to please. In Philadelphia, you’ll find bakeries that take apple pie to the next level by adding unique twists, such as caramel drizzle, streusel toppings, or even a scoop of ice cream on the side.
Chocolate Mousse
For all the chocolate lovers out there, chocolate mousse is a dessert that should not be missed. This indulgent treat combines the richness of chocolate with a light and airy texture, creating a truly heavenly experience. Philadelphia has several bakeries and dessert shops that serve up decadent chocolate mousse, whether in a cup, as part of a layered cake, or even as a filling in other desserts.
Creme Brulee
With its crackling caramelized sugar topping and silky smooth custard, creme brulee is a dessert that exudes elegance and sophistication. This French classic consists of a vanilla-infused custard base that is baked until perfectly set and then topped with a layer of caramelized sugar that adds a delightful contrast in texture. Several restaurants and bakeries in Philadelphia offer creme brulee in traditional vanilla flavor as well as exciting variations like chocolate, lavender, or even seasonal fruit.
Creative Desserts
Doughnut Ice Cream Sandwiches
Why settle for a traditional ice cream sandwich when you can have a doughnut ice cream sandwich? This innovative dessert takes two fluffy and glazed doughnuts and sandwiches a generous scoop of creamy ice cream in between. The combination of the warm, sweet doughnuts and the cold, velvety ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures that is simply irresistible.
Cronuts
Cronuts, a delightful fusion of croissants and doughnuts, have taken the dessert world by storm in recent years. These flaky and buttery pastries are fried to perfection and then filled with various fillings, such as sweet cream, fruit jams, or even chocolate ganache. Luckily for dessert enthusiasts in Philadelphia, there are bakeries that specialize in crafting these mouthwatering cronuts in a wide array of flavors, ensuring that there’s something for everyone’s taste buds.
Unicorn Cake
Unleash your inner child with a slice of unicorn cake. These whimsical and colorful creations are as delicious as they are visually stunning. From their rainbow-colored layers to their magical decorations like edible glitter and fondant unicorns, unicorn cakes are guaranteed to make any celebration extra special. Several specialty bakeries in Philadelphia offer custom-made unicorn cakes that will transport you to a fantasy world with each bite.
Milkshake with Cereal Toppings
If you’re in the mood for something fun and playful, a milkshake with cereal toppings is the perfect choice. This dessert combines the creaminess of a classic milkshake with the crunch and nostalgia of your favorite childhood cereals. From Fruity Pebbles to Cocoa Puffs, these milkshakes are generously topped with an assortment of cereals, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will bring back memories of lazy Saturday mornings.
Local Bakeries
Beiler’s Bakery
Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic Reading Terminal Market, Beiler’s Bakery is a beloved local institution that has been serving up delicious baked goods for over three decades. This family-owned bakery is famous for its hand-rolled doughnuts, which come in a variety of classic and creative flavors. Additionally, Beiler’s Bakery offers an array of pastries, cakes, and pies, all made with love and attention to detail.
Flying Monkey Bakery
If you’re looking for unique and imaginative desserts, look no further than Flying Monkey Bakery. This charming neighborhood bakery is known for its inventive flavor combinations and whimsical designs. From their decadent cupcakes to their expertly crafted cakes, Flying Monkey Bakery is a haven for dessert lovers who appreciate the perfect balance of flavor and presentation.
Termini Brothers Bakery
For a taste of Italy in Philadelphia, Termini Brothers Bakery is your go-to destination. This iconic bakery has been a staple in the city for over 100 years, and it continues to delight locals and visitors alike with its authentic Italian pastries and desserts. From cannoli to tiramisu, every bite at Termini Brothers Bakery is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Italy.
Isgro Pastries
Isgro Pastries is a must-visit if you’re craving traditional Italian pastries with a touch of Philadelphia charm. This family-owned bakery has been serving up delectable treats since 1904, and it has become a beloved institution in the city. From their flaky sfogliatelle to their velvety ricotta cheesecake, every pastry at Isgro Pastries is made with the highest quality ingredients and generations of passion and expertise.
Ice Cream Parlors
Little Baby’s Ice Cream
Little Baby’s Ice Cream is not your average ice cream parlor. This local favorite prides itself on its unique and unconventional flavors that will challenge your taste buds in the best way possible. From Earl Grey Sriracha to Balsamic Banana, the flavor combinations at Little Baby’s Ice Cream are as imaginative as they are delicious. With a commitment to sustainability and supporting local farmers, this quirky ice cream parlor is a true gem in Philadelphia’s dessert scene.
Franklin Fountain
Step into the past and indulge in a sweet treat at Franklin Fountain, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor that will transport you back in time. Housed in a historic building in Old City, this charming establishment combines vintage decor with handcrafted ice cream made from locally sourced ingredients. From classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate to unique creations like lavender honey and maple bacon, Franklin Fountain offers a delightful selection of frozen treats that will satisfy any ice cream lover.
Big Gay Ice Cream
Big Gay Ice Cream is all about celebrating flavor, fun, and inclusivity. This vibrant ice cream parlor is known for its playful and bold creations that push the boundaries of traditional ice cream. Whether you’re in the mood for a Bea Arthur sundae, topped with crushed Nilla wafers and dulce de leche, or a Salty Pimp cone, with salted caramel and chocolate dip, Big Gay Ice Cream is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face with its imaginative flavors and colorful atmosphere.
Zsa’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Zsa’s Gourmet Ice Cream is a hidden gem tucked away in South Philadelphia. This family-owned ice cream parlor focuses on creating small-batch, artisanal flavors that are beloved by locals. From classics like chocolate and strawberry to inventive combinations like lavender honey and blueberry goat cheese, Zsa’s Gourmet Ice Cream offers a rotating menu of delightful flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Chocolate Shops
Lore’s Chocolates
For chocolate lovers, a visit to Lore’s Chocolates is a must when in Philadelphia. This family-owned chocolate shop has been handcrafting chocolates since 1967 and has built a reputation for excellence. From beautifully molded truffles to mouthwatering chocolate-covered pretzels, Lore’s Chocolates offers a wide range of delectable treats that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning chocolate connoisseur.
Shane Confectionery
Step into Shane Confectionery and prepare to be transported to a bygone era of sweet indulgence. As America’s oldest continuously operating confectionery, this charming chocolate shop and candy store delights visitors with its Victorian ambiance and exquisite handmade chocolates. From classic favorites like chocolate-covered caramels to unique creations like rose-flavored chocolate bars, Shane Confectionery offers a delightful selection of chocolates that will transport you back in time.
Teuscher Chocolates
Teuscher Chocolates is a Swiss chocolatier that has been creating luxurious chocolates for over 80 years. With its flagship store in Zurich, Teuscher has expanded its reach to Philadelphia, bringing its decadent creations to chocolate enthusiasts in the city. From their iconic Champagne truffles to their rich and smooth dark chocolate bars, Teuscher Chocolates offers an exquisite range of chocolates that are a true indulgence for the senses.
The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company
If you’re in the mood for big, chewy, and delicious cookies, look no further than The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company. This family-owned bakery has been baking irresistible cookies since 1979, and its cookies have become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. From classic chocolate chip to creative flavors like Oreo, M&M, and Snickerdoodle, The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company offers a cookie for every palate and occasion.
French Desserts
Macarons
Macarons are delicate and colorful French treats that have gained popularity worldwide. These sweet meringue-based cookies have a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, with a variety of flavorful fillings sandwiched between them. In Philadelphia, you’ll find patisseries and bakeries that specialize in crafting exquisite macarons in a rainbow of flavors, from traditional options like raspberry and pistachio to more adventurous combinations like lavender-lime and passionfruit-mango.
Eclairs
Eclairs are a classic French pastry that are beloved for their elegant appearance and decadent flavors. These oblong pastries are made of choux dough, which is then filled with creamy vanilla or chocolate pastry cream and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze. In Philadelphia, there are patisseries and bakeries that create beautiful and delicious eclairs, often offering a variety of fillings and glazes to suit different preferences.
Croissants
No discussion of French desserts would be complete without mentioning croissants. These buttery and flaky pastries are a staple of French bakeries and have become a beloved treat worldwide. In Philadelphia, you’ll find bakeries that take pride in their croissants, offering both traditional plain croissants and creative variations, such as almond, chocolate, or savory fillings like ham and cheese.
Tartes Tatin
Tartes Tatin is a classic French dessert that features caramelized apples baked in a buttery pastry crust. This upside-down tart is known for its rich and deep flavors, with the caramelized apples providing a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. In Philadelphia, you can find bakeries and patisseries that offer their own interpretations of Tartes Tatin, often using locally sourced apples to create the most flavorful and satisfying desserts.
Italian Desserts
Cannoli
Cannoli is a beloved Italian dessert that consists of crispy and flaky pastry tubes filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta-based filling. With their crunchy exterior and luscious filling, cannoli are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Italian indulgence. In Philadelphia, you’ll find Italian bakeries that make their own cannoli shells and fillings, ensuring a truly authentic and delicious experience.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that features layers of espresso-soaked ladyfinger cookies, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. With its creamy and velvety texture, combined with the bold flavors of coffee and cocoa, tiramisu is a dessert that never fails to impress. In Philadelphia, you’ll find restaurants and bakeries that serve up exceptional tiramisu, often adding their own unique twists, such as incorporating different liqueurs or experimenting with flavors like matcha or salted caramel.
Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is a smooth and silky Italian dessert that translates to “cooked cream.” This delicate dessert is made by simmering cream, sugar, and gelatin until it reaches the perfect consistency, and then chilling it to set. Panna cotta is often served with a fruit coulis or compote, adding a burst of flavor and vibrant colors to the dessert. In Philadelphia, you’ll find Italian restaurants that offer panna cotta as a refreshing and elegant ending to a meal.
Zeppole
Zeppole is a traditional Italian pastry that is often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals. These deep-fried doughnuts are light and fluffy on the inside, with a crispy exterior and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Zeppole can be enjoyed plain, but they are often filled with sweet cream or custard for an extra indulgent experience. In Philadelphia, you’ll find bakeries that offer zeppole, particularly around holidays like Christmas and Saint Joseph’s Day.
Ethnic Desserts
Baklava
Baklava is a sweet and flaky pastry that is widely enjoyed across many cultures, including Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. This indulgent dessert is made by layering thin sheets of phyllo dough with a mixture of chopped nuts, sugar, and spices, and then soaking it in a sweet syrup made of honey or sugar. In Philadelphia, you’ll find bakeries and specialty shops that offer freshly made baklava in various flavors, including traditional walnut, pistachio, and almond.
Mochi
Mochi is a Japanese dessert that consists of sweet rice dough filled with various flavors of sweetened bean paste, fruit, or ice cream. These soft and chewy treats are often enjoyed during tea ceremonies and are a popular choice for dessert lovers seeking a unique and delightful experience. In Philadelphia, you’ll find Japanese markets and specialty shops that offer a variety of mochi flavors, including classics like red bean and matcha, as well as inventive combinations like mango and chocolate.
Flan
Flan is a silky smooth custard dessert that is enjoyed in many Latin American and Spanish cultures. This velvety treat is made by baking a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla until it sets, and then flipping it upside down to reveal a caramel sauce that creates a luscious topping. In Philadelphia, you’ll find Latin American bakeries and restaurants that serve up delicious flan, often offering different variations like coconut, coffee, or even chocolate.
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a popular dessert in Indian cuisine that consists of deep-fried milk solids soaked in a sugar syrup flavored with cardamom, rose water, and saffron. These round and soft dumplings are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with a perfect balance of sweetness and aromatic flavors. In Philadelphia, you’ll find Indian restaurants and sweet shops that offer freshly made gulab jamun, often serving them warm for the ultimate indulgence.
Vegan Desserts
Vegan Cakes
If you follow a vegan lifestyle, you don’t have to miss out on delicious cakes. Vegan bakeries and specialty shops in Philadelphia offer a wide range of vegan cake options, from classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous combinations like matcha and raspberry lemon. These cakes are made without any animal products, using plant-based alternatives like nut milks, vegetable oils, and natural sweeteners, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a slice of cake without any compromise.
Dairy-Free Ice Cream
Dairy-free ice cream has come a long way in recent years, with innovative recipes and ingredients that mimic the creamy texture and flavors of traditional ice cream. In Philadelphia, you’ll find vegan ice cream shops that offer a diverse range of dairy-free flavors, often made with coconut milk, almond milk, or other plant-based alternatives. From classic options like chocolate and mint chip to more unique creations like lavender honey or cookie dough, dairy-free ice cream satisfies sweet cravings while catering to dietary preferences.
Healthy Energy Balls
For a guilt-free and nutritious dessert option, healthy energy balls make the perfect choice. These bite-sized treats are made from a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners, providing a healthy boost of energy and nutrients. In Philadelphia, you’ll find health food stores and bakeries that offer a variety of energy ball flavors, allowing you to indulge in a sweet treat while nourishing your body.
Raw Vegan Cheesecakes
Raw vegan cheesecakes are a popular choice for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while adhering to a vegan and gluten-free lifestyle. These creamy and decadent desserts are made with a combination of soaked nuts, coconut oil, and natural sweeteners, resulting in a deliciously rich and silky texture. In Philadelphia, you can find specialty bakeries and cafes that offer a range of raw vegan cheesecake flavors, from classic options like strawberry and chocolate to more unique combinations like matcha or salted caramel.
Gluten-Free Desserts
Gluten-Free Cookies
Gluten-free cookies are a delicious alternative for those with gluten intolerance or Celiac disease. In Philadelphia, you’ll find bakeries that specialize in creating mouthwatering gluten-free cookies that rival their traditional counterparts in flavor and texture. From classic chocolate chip cookies to creative options like peanut butter and jelly or white chocolate macadamia, these gluten-free treats ensure that everyone can indulge in a sweet moment without worrying about dietary restrictions.
Flourless Chocolate Cake
For chocolate lovers who are gluten intolerant, flourless chocolate cake is the ultimate dessert delight. This dense and fudgy cake is made with ground almonds or other nuts instead of flour, resulting in a rich and deeply chocolatey treat. In Philadelphia, you’ll find bakeries and restaurants that offer flourless chocolate cake, often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra touch of decadence.
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are a sweet and chewy treat that is naturally gluten-free. These delightful confections are made with shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and egg whites, resulting in a moist and delicious cookie with a crisp exterior. In Philadelphia, you’ll find bakeries that specialize in crafting coconut macaroons in a variety of flavors, from traditional vanilla to more adventurous options like chocolate-dipped or raspberry-filled.
Almond Flour Brownies
Almond flour brownies are a delightful gluten-free alternative to the classic chocolate treat. These fudgy and rich brownies are made with almond flour instead of traditional all-purpose flour, creating a dense and moist texture that is impossible to resist. In Philadelphia, you’ll find bakeries that offer almond flour brownies with various toppings and flavor variations, ensuring that gluten-free dessert lovers can enjoy this timeless indulgence without any compromise.
In Philadelphia, dessert enthusiasts are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the best desserts in town. Whether you have a hankering for classic treats like cheesecake and apple pie, or you’re in the mood for something more creative and adventurous like unicorn cake or doughnut ice cream sandwiches, the city has it all. From local bakeries that have been serving up delectable pastries for generations to ice cream parlors that churn out innovative and unique flavors, Philadelphia is a dessert lover’s paradise. So go ahead, indulge your sweet tooth and explore all that the city has to offer in terms of delicious desserts. You won’t be disappointed!