Metro Detroit’s Irresistible Dessert Spots

October 10, 2024
Delicious raspberry mini tarts (tartlets) with whipped cream desserts

There’s something so incredibly special about enjoying a sweet treat. The combination of sugar with other ingredients is a delightfully indulgent experience that is sure to put a smile on your face. Whether it’s pastries, chocolates, or ice cream, giving into your sweet tooth every once in a while is highly encouraged, especially when those treats come from incredible local shops. The next time you’re looking for your daily moment of sweetness, check out one of these local places for dessert… 

BON BON BON

Multiple locations in Metro Detroit

Bon Bon Bon redefines what chocolate can be with its artistic approach to bonbons. This local chocolatier uses unexpected flavor combinations and handcrafts each piece to be as visually stunning as it is delicious. With flavors like PB & Jam and Better Butter Crunch with ‘Detroit’s favorite potato chips (a must for this business that was born in the back of a Detroit Coney Island ten years ago), Bon Bon Bon is perfect for anyone who appreciates adventurous desserts and enjoys a whimsical twist on a classic treat. Other stand-out flavors include Lil’ Hottie (chile-infused honey and smoked paprika), Lemon Bar None, High Tea, Cherry Lux (with Candied Michigan cherries), Bubs (a dark chocolate brut rosé caramel), and many more. Get a pre-selected box, or build your own of these bite-sized delights. 

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MOMENTO GELATO AND COFFEE

2120 Trumbull, Detroit

At Momento Gelato and Coffee, you’ll find more than just gelato; it’s an experience. As owner Tom Isaia explains, “Momento Gelato and Coffee is modeled after French and Italian cafes. There is an enclosed all-season patio, plus outdoor seating. We make all of the gelato from scratch and have a full menu of espresso-based drinks. Just [recently] we’ve added cordials, beer, and wine, to mimic European cafes even more!” Memento Gelato and Coffee prioritize locally sourced ingredients from Southeast Michigan farmers, so flavors often reflect the seasons. Beyond the delicious pumpkin spice and gingerbread options, flavors like pistachio and chocolate almond amaretto are must-tries too. Pair your gelato with a pastry or two, sip on an iced tea, and indulge in your sweet tooth here. With flavors crafted from scratch and a cozy yet chic atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to linger over an espresso or a glass of wine while enjoying a scoop (or two) of house-made gelato.

momento gelato and coffee shop - sweet tooth
Photo courtesy of Momento Gelato and Coffee

CANNELLE

Multiple locations in Metro Detroit

Known for its authentic French pastries, Cannelle is a destination for anyone craving a taste of Paris. The delicate croissants, éclairs, and tarts are meticulously crafted, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The tarts are covered in raspberries or lemon cream, while the macarons feature berry coulis, ganache, and fresh fruit, depending on which one you pick. Whether it’s a flaky almond croissant and cinnamon roll for breakfast or a rich Croquant Chocolate cake to end your day, Cannelle’s desserts transport you straight to a quaint Parisian bakery. Pair any of these with a latte, macchiato, or a cappuccino and thoroughly enjoy your selections. 

MOMMA’S DESSERT BAR

56752 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township

Momma’s Dessert Bar puts a playful spin on desserts, offering creations that are oh-so impressive. Home of the ‘Big Momma Challenge’ patrons are challenged to finish 15 scoops of ice cream (3 flavors of your choice) topped with hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, and 3 more toppings, all within 15 minutes. Beyond that, the Bathtub Sundae is served up in a bathtub with a rubber ducky, while the Stacked Banana Split offers the perfect combination of vanilla and chocolate soft serve, pineapple, strawberry and chocolate syrup, and more. On the simpler side, you can order a shake or an ice cream sandwich made with any ice cream flavor between chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, or sugar cookies. It’s the kind of place where everything sweet isn’t just a treat—they’re an experience that brings out your inner child.

ASTORIA PASTRY SHOP

320 South Main Street, Royal Oak

541 Monroe Street, Detroit

A Greektown staple since the 70s, Astoria Pastry Shop has been a dessert cornerstone. Boasting a variety of sweet treats, from danishes and muffins for breakfast and cakes and tortes to a range of cookies and must-try brownies, Astoria really has it all. You can’t go wrong with a cannoli or an individual cheesecake to brighten up your day either. If that wasn’t enough, its specialties also include cronuts, French macarons, and caramel apples. Unlike most bakeries, Astoria Pastry Shop is open daily, and often open late into the evening at both locations. It’s great to stop in and grab a treat after dinner or being out for the night. With both classic European pastries and American favorites, this shop ensures there’s something for every palate. The cases are filled with vibrant, artfully presented desserts that make it nearly impossible to pick just one.

LE DETROIT MACARON

2756 Evaline Street, Hamtramck

Macaron lovers need look no further than Le Detroit Macaron. Specializing in these delicate French cookies, Le Detroit Macaron creates an impressive range of signature flavors, from cherry almond and Oreo cheesecake to more inventive, limited varieties that change on a monthly and weekly basis. Le Detroit Macaron typically offers 3 monthly special flavors, along with its 12 signatures, and sometimes even weekend specials that are meticulously planned and created with love. The macarons are all light, crisp on the outside, and filled with a smooth, flavorful cream that will make you savor each bite. If you’re interested in learning how to make your own macarons, this Hamtramck spot offers classes that will guide you through the process, leaving you with new tricks and a box of macarons.

WILDFLOUR BAKERY

2920 West Maple Road, Troy

For those who love their sweets, Wildflour Bakery is a must-visit. Known for its freshly-baked muffins, giant cookies, and cakes, Wildflour offers a variety of baked goods to choose from. You’ll find donuts, cinnamon buns, croissants, and seasonal specialties galore. On the ice cream side, order a waffle or donut sundae, an ice cream sandwich, and more. Seasonally, Wildflour Bakery offers pies, tres leches, pavlovas, and tarts to look forward to. If you’re planning a special event, consider Wildflour for your cakes and mini-desserts to impress your guests. Order a lavender lemonade or an espresso, a breakfast specialty or sandwich, and a sweet treat for now (or later). 

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on May 31, 2023, and was authored by Katie Goncalves.

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