As a true dessert enthusiast, I understand the importance of ending a meal on a sweet note. A meal without dessert is like a day without sunshine, simply incomplete. If you’re a lover of all things sweet like me, you know the feeling of seeking out the bakeries & dessert shops. I have had the pleasure of exploring many spots, from the famous Voodoo Donut in Portland to the traditional Khajja in Odisha, and I am excited to share with you my curated list of the top 5 must-visit dessert shops in Seattle. From classic bakeries to trendy, innovative spots, these places offer a diverse range of sugary treats for every palate. So grab your fork and join me on a sweet journey through Seattle’s dessert scene.
Cinnaholic Seattle
Location: Capitol Hill | Vegan-friendly | $$
Tucked away at the corner of Pike & Broadway, in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, is Seattle’s very own gourmet vegan cinnamon roll cafe, called Cinnaholic. Maysa (owner) started this cafe about four years ago with a very simple motto, to serve healthy yet decadent sweet treats. “I only serve desserts here, that I would be fine serving my children”, she says.
The cafe itself has a very bright and cheery vibe, with murals from local artists decorating the walls. The business is entirely women-owned and operated. You can order from a giant list of cinnamon rolls, including strawberry shortcake rolls, morning java rolls, and several other tempting combinations. Nothing from the menu catches your fancy? You can customize your toppings all you want! They serve hot and cold beverages and let you customize your drink, much like their rolls.
Cinnaholic Seattle also does special menus and gifts for special occasions. The latest one was for Valentine’s day when they had a whole range of chocolate-covered strawberries, sweetheart boxes, and many more. Be sure to drop by in the middle of a tiring day for a pick me up or for a Baker’s dozen to share with friends!
Fuji Bakery
Location: 1030 Elliot Ave W & International District | Vegan-friendly | $
Fuji Bakery is a hidden gem near Elliot Bay. As soon as you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries will transport you to a quaint Japanese cafe. The bakery prides itself on being one of the best Japanese artisan bakeries in town. Plus, they use only the highest quality ingredients to create mouth-watering treats. From additive-free yeast cultivated in-house to Bourbon vanilla beans to French Griottines, the team at Fuji Bakery pays attention to every detail of the baking process. The result is a selection of delectable desserts that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Matcha Green Tea cake is one of their best sellers, a delicately flavored treat that is sure to please any matcha lover. The bakery also offers a variety of other cakes, bread, and desserts, including their famous Strawberry Shortcakes and Melon Pan. They also serve a selection of savory items such as sandwiches and soups, which are perfect for a quick lunch or a light snack. The Malasada, a traditional Portuguese doughnut, is a must-try and another popular item on their menu.
The cafe is cozy and inviting, with a warm atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a sweet treat. Therefore, if you’re looking for a taste of Japan in Seattle, Fuji Bakery is worth a visit. The bakery’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional techniques is evident in every bite, and its selection of desserts is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Petit Pierre Bakery – Phinney
Location: Phinney & Magnolia | Vegan-friendly | $$
Petit Pierre Bakery is the epitome of a quaint and cozy French bakery that Seattle residents have grown to love. Located in the charming Phinney neighborhood, this family-owned establishment is dedicated to staying true to its French roots through its baking techniques and products.
The bakery is run by the dynamic duo of Chef Pierre Poulin and Chef Joanna Chau, who bring decades of expertise and a passion for pastry-making to the table. Using only the finest French imported ingredients, they produce freshly-baked goods that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Paris. The bakery offers a wide variety of bread, pastries, and desserts, each crafted with care and precision. Their croissants, baguettes, and macarons are particularly noteworthy, drawing in locals and visitors alike. The rustic decor of the bakery evokes the charm of a traditional French village bakery, making for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast or lunch spot or a treat to go, Petit Pierre Bakery is the perfect destination.
Pie Bar
Location: Ballard, Capitol Hill & Phinney | Vegan-friendly | $$
Are you a pie lover on the hunt for the best slices in Seattle? Look no further than Pie Bar! Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Ballard, this cozy and inviting bakery caught my attention with its beautiful roof lights and rustic decor. But, it was the taste of their sweet and savory pies that truly won me over.
I discovered Pie Bar while exploring the area and I knew I had to give it a try. As soon as I walked inside, I was greeted with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pies. I grabbed a beer and dove into their famous pot pie, and let me tell you, it was unlike any pot pie I’ve ever had before. The filling was unique and delicious, and I can still taste it in my mouth.
If you’re a fan of sweet pies, their cookie cream pie is a must-try. And for savory pies, their chicken pot pie is one of my all-time favorites. But what sets Pie Bar apart is their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and offering seasonal specials like pumpkin-flavored pies and turkey jambalaya. So next time you’re in Ballard, be sure to stop by and treat yourself to a slice (or two) of heaven.
Piroshky Piroshky
Location: Pike Place, South Park & Century Square | Vegan-friendly | $
Piroshky Piroshky is our go-to place in Seattle whenever we crave some delicious and authentic pastry. This women-owned Russian bakery has been a local favorite since it opened its doors in 1992. Piroshki, or hand-held pies, are a traditional Russian pastry that comes in a variety of savory and sweet flavors, such as beef, chicken, potatoes, cheese, and fruit.
At Piroshky Piroshky, you’ll find not only piroshki but also other traditional Russian baked goods like blini and korovai. The bakery is known for its fresh and authentic pastries and has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
In terms of decor, the bakery may not be much to look at, but it more than makes up for it in taste. They don’t offer dine-in, but you can take your treats to go and enjoy them at the nearby Victor Steinbrueck Park or the waterfront. Some of our favorites include the Apple Cinnamon Roll, Marzipan Roll, Chocolate Cream Hazelnut Rolls, and the Potato & Mushroom Piroshky. If you’re a fan of traditional pastries, you won’t want to miss Piroshky Piroshky.
Additional recommendation
Are you on the hunt for the best dessert spots in Seattle? Well, let me share a little secret with you… don’t forget to check out our top picks for the best home-grown ice cream brands in town. These ice cream brands will make you scream for more! And that’s not all, we’ve got more recommendations for you. The Salvadoran Bakery, Le Fournil, and Dahlia Bakery are must-visits for anyone looking for some mouth-watering treats. So, go ahead and indulge in some sweet treats, you deserve it! Drop your favorite bakery in the comments below, so we can all join in on the yummy fun.
Happy munching!
