Must Try Desserts in LA: A Guide to Sweet Delights and Iconic Treats

Craving something sweet in the City of Angels? You’re not alone! Los Angeles is a dessert lover’s paradise, filled with mouthwatering treats that can satisfy any sweet tooth. From trendy pastry shops to iconic ice cream parlors, there’s always something new to discover.

Overview of Must Try Desserts in LA

Los Angeles boasts a vibrant dessert scene, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. The city offers an impressive array of desserts, from artisanal pastries to innovative ice cream flavors. You’ll find a mix of traditional and modern options that cater to all tastes.

Iconic Ice Cream Shops

• Salt & Straw: Famous for unique flavors like Honey Lavender and Pear & Blue Cheese. Try their seasonal offerings for a surprise.
• Cremoly: Known for its rolled ice cream, which you can customize with toppings. This trendy spot provides a fun experience.

Trendy Pastry Shops

• Bottega Louie: Offers pastries like macarons and stunning tarts. The vibrant atmosphere adds to your experience.
• Little Prince: Famous for their extraordinary croissants, including flavors such as almond and chocolate. These flaky delights keep locals coming back.

Decadent Cakes

• Milk Bar: Highlights their signature Layer Cake and Cereal Milk Cake. These treats showcase creative flavors that push the boundaries.
• SusieCakes: Celebrates classic American desserts. Their old-fashioned cakes bring nostalgia with every bite.

Unique Treats

• Kettle Corn: Available at various food markets, this sweet and salty snack offers a crunchy alternative to traditional desserts.
• Churros: Find these in many food trucks and cafes. Their crispy exterior and warm interior make for an irresistible snack.

• Dessert Tasting Tours: Consider joining a local tour to sample a variety of desserts in one outing. This option allows you to explore different neighborhoods and their sweet spots.
• Food Festivals: Attend events like the LA County Fair or various food festivals to discover new dessert trends and local favorites.

Los Angeles’ dessert landscape features an exciting blend of flavors and techniques. With so many options, you’re bound to discover a dessert that satisfies your cravings.

Classic Desserts

Los Angeles boasts an array of classic desserts that every sweet tooth must try. Here’s a look at some iconic options available throughout the city.

Cheesecake Delights

Cheesecake holds a special place in LA’s dessert scene. Look for classic flavors like New York-style cheesecake, known for its creamy texture. Local favorites include:

• The Cheesecake Factory: Famous for its extensive cheesecake menu, featuring over 30 varieties. Their Fresh Strawberry Cheesecake combines a buttery cookie crust with rich cream cheese and fresh strawberries.
• Junior’s Restaurant: Offers a legendary Brooklyn-style cheesecake that’s light and fluffy. The original version is a must for purists.
• Eclair Bakery: Known for their unique takes, including matcha and mango cheesecake options. These flavors set them apart from traditional recipes.

Iconic Chocolate Cakes

Chocolate cake is a timeless classic, and LA has some standout spots where you can enjoy this indulgent treat. Seek out:

• Porto’s Bakery: Their famous Chocolate Chiffon Cake features layers of airy chocolate cake and smooth chocolate frosting. This cake is a crowd favorite for celebrations.
• SusieCakes: The classic Chocolate Layer Cake offers rich chocolate flavor with a simple yet decadent buttercream frosting. It’s perfect for any special occasion.
• Milk Bar: Known for their Chocolate Birthday Cake, which layers chocolate cake with chocolate frosting and a unique creamy filling. This cake appeals to those who love a multi-textured dessert.

Explore these classic desserts while wandering around Los Angeles, and indulge in the sweet flavors each location has to offer.

Trendy Desserts

Los Angeles boasts an exciting array of trendy desserts that keep sweet enthusiasts coming back for more. You’ll find innovative ice cream options and unique pastries to tickle your taste buds.

Innovative Ice Cream Flavors

Experience ice cream like never before at spots like Salt & Straw. They offer adventurous flavors such as Honey Lavender and Blue Cheese Fig, blending tastes you wouldn’t expect. Explore new taste sensations by trying out combinations like Strawberry Honey Balsamic or Olive Oil, which promise to delight and surprise. For a hands-on experience, visit Cremoly for customized rolled ice cream, where you can choose your base, mix-ins, and toppings to create a personalized treat.

Unique Pastries and Treats

Indulge in standout pastries at places like Bottega Louie, famous for its vibrant macarons and stunning éclairs. Their perfect balance of flavors and eye-popping colors make each visit a festive experience. Little Prince offers an extraordinary twist on traditional croissants, with inventive fillings like matcha and chocolate hazelnut. If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out the innovative slice cakes at Milk Bar, where flavors like Corn and Birthday Cake offer a delightful nostalgia with every bite. Exploring these trendy desserts opens the door to new flavor profiles and creative culinary artistry in LA.

Local Favorites

Los Angeles boasts a rich dessert culture filled with must-try spots. This city’s bakeshops offer a variety of treats, ensuring your sweet cravings are satisfied.

Best Bakeshops in LA

1. Bottega Louie: Known for its colorful macarons and light éclairs, this bakeshop combines eye-catching presentation with delightful flavors. Don’t miss the pistachio or rose macarons.
2. Little Prince: Famous for its croissants, this spot elevates traditional pastries with inventive fillings like almond cream and raspberry jam. Grab one to start your culinary adventure.
3. SusieCakes: This charming bakery specializes in classic desserts, particularly their moist chocolate cakes and layer cakes. The nostalgic flavors remind you of homemade treats.
4. Milk Bar: This trendy shop offers unique takes on iconic desserts, such as the famous Birthday Cake and cereal milk soft serve. Try their pie for an unconventional experience.
5. Porto’s Bakery: A family favorite, known for its cheese rolls and decadent cakes. The triple berry cake is a crowd-pleaser, with layers of fresh berries and cream.

1. Magnolia Bakery: Renowned for its banana pudding, this bakery serves it in nostalgic containers. Enjoy it on-site or take a few to-go for a sweet snack later.
2. Ghirardelli Chocolate Company: This spot gives you a taste of San Francisco in LA. Their sundaes, especially the hot fudge sundae, leave a lasting impression.
3. Churros El Tigre: This food truck is a must for churro enthusiasts. They offer churros filled with dulce de leche or chocolate, cooked to perfection.
4. Cremoly: Known for its customizable rolled ice cream, this shop lets you choose from a variety of mix-ins and toppings. The presentation is as delightful as the flavors.
5. The Pie Hole: This hidden gem offers an array of delicious pies, from classic apple to intriguing flavors like chocolate cream. Each pie promises homemade goodness.

These local favorites highlight the diverse and innovative dessert scene in Los Angeles. Each spot provides delightful experiences, ensuring that your sweet tooth is well catered to.

Seasonal Desserts

Los Angeles features seasonal desserts that highlight local flavors and celebrate festive occasions throughout the year.

Holiday Specials

Embrace the spirit of each holiday with themed desserts. For Halloween, try the pumpkin spice cupcakes from Sweet Lady Jane, which blend rich flavors with festive decorations. During Christmas, indulge in the peppermint bark from See’s Candies, celebrated for its smooth chocolate and crunchy peppermint finish. Valentine’s Day calls for sweetheart cookies from Milk Jar Cookies, lovingly decorated to share with someone special. Explore these seasonal delights to experience LA’s holiday cheer through dessert.

Summer Treats

Summer in LA brings refreshing treats ideal for warm weather. Enjoy the acai bowls from Beau’s Coffee, topped with fresh fruits and granola for a nutritious, cool snack. Treat yourself to the sorbet and gelato options at Gelato Bar, where flavors like mango and lavender provide a refreshing escape. For a crunchy bite, grab a shaved ice from Hawaiian Shaved Ice, adorned with colorful syrups and condensed milk. These summer desserts offer a fun way to beat the heat while savoring delightful ingredients.

Conclusion

You’ve got a sweet adventure ahead in Los Angeles. With so many mouthwatering desserts waiting for you it’s hard to choose where to start. Whether you’re in the mood for unique ice cream flavors or stunning pastries there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Don’t forget to explore seasonal treats that celebrate local flavors and festive occasions. Each bite is a chance to discover the creativity and passion that defines LA’s dessert scene. So grab your friends and dive into this delicious journey—you won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-try desserts in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles offers a diverse array of must-try desserts. Iconic options include unique ice cream flavors at Salt & Straw, stunning macarons from Bottega Louie, and inventive croissants at Little Prince. Don’t miss decadent cakes from Milk Bar and SusieCakes, along with delicious treats like churros and kettle corn found at various food markets.

Where can I find the best ice cream in LA?

For amazing ice cream, head to Salt & Straw for their creative flavors like Honey Lavender and Blue Cheese Fig. Another great option is Cremoly, known for their customizable rolled ice cream. Both are popular spot to satisfy your sweet tooth with cool treats.

Which bakeries are famous for cakes in Los Angeles?

Renowned for their cakes, Milk Bar and SusieCakes are top favorites in LA. Milk Bar specializes in unique takes on classic flavors, while SusieCakes offers nostalgic layer cakes. Both bakeries are perfect choices for cake lovers seeking indulgent desserts.

Are there any dessert tasting tours in LA?

Yes, there are several dessert tasting tours available in Los Angeles! These tours allow visitors to sample a variety of sweet treats from different shops, increasing your chances to explore local favorites and hidden gems within the city’s vibrant dessert scene.

What seasonal desserts are popular in Los Angeles?

Seasonal desserts in Los Angeles feature local flavors celebrating festive occasions. Popular choices include pumpkin spice cupcakes from Sweet Lady Jane for Halloween, peppermint bark from See’s Candies for Christmas, sweetheart cookies from Milk Jar Cookies for Valentine’s Day, and refreshing acai bowls during summer heat.