Austin's Best desserts range from classic comfort food establishments to innovative new creations, including artisanal ice cream parlors and unique fusion desserts.
Austin Texas has emerged as a vibrant culinary destination in 2025, with its dessert scene particularly standing out as a sweet sensation.
Whether you're in the mood for traditional treats or adventurous new flavors, Austin's diverse desserts have something for every sweet tooth, making it the perfect destination to indulge in some of the city's most creative and delicious sweet creations.
As someone with a sweet tooth, I must give my flowers to Austin, Texas as my go-to spot for desserts in Texas. I love the city's sweets so much that I had to make a list of the most stunning sugary treats in this emerging culinary hotspot. Let's take a closer look!
Must-Try Dessert Spots in Austin
There are many great desserts around Austin, so to cover them more efficiently, let’s break them down into a few categories:
Pastries and Cakes
First is Quack's 43rd Street Bakery, a local favorite known for its out-of-this-world buttercream frosting! With hours from 7 AM to 9 PM, it's perfect for grabbing a morning pastry or indulging in a late-night dessert.
If you haven't had Kolaches yet, this is one of the best spots to try them—Texas' beloved Czech pastry. The staff here is incredibly friendly and always ready to help you find exactly what you're craving.
Next, I visited Capital City Bakery and was seriously impressed by their inclusivity. They offer vegan cheesecake and gluten-free options, but the real standouts are their cupcakes—flavors like classic chocolate, lavender lemonade, and many creative combinations!
And as a surprising favorite, I have to give a shoutout to 85°C Bakery Cafe. This place has earned its spot in Austin with its mix of Asian-inspired pastries and modern convenience. Originally from Taiwan, they offer an impressive range of sweet and savory items.
Since I'm a fan of lemon desserts, I tried their vanilla chiffon cake with lemon filling, and it was amazing—the fluffiness and touch of acidity from fresh fruit on top made it an unforgettable treat. In Austin's competitive bakery scene, they've carved out their niche. It's worth checking out!
As you leave these bakeries full of tasty treats, just keep an eye out for traffic and pedestrians in busy downtown Austin to stay safe.
Ice Cream and Gelato
Austin has an amazing ice cream and gelato scene. Spots like Lick Honest Ice Creams is a beloved local store that sources its ingredients locally from Texas farmers and artisans, using seasonal, sustainable, and all-natural components without artificial additives.
With so many unique flavors, my favorites were Goat Cheese, Thyme & Honey, Caramel & Coffee paired with Salted Spanish Peanuts, or a chocolate delight with Dark Chocolate Olive Oil.
Another local favorite, Dolce Neve, is a gem of authentic Italian gelato in Austin. Made fresh daily with local ingredients, this spot brings a taste of Italy to the city, thanks to its Italian founders who stick to traditional methods. If you're stopping by, try the rich Crema Dolce Neve, the Pistachio, or any seasonal sorbets made with fresh Texas fruits.
While you might be focused on enjoying your ice cream and trying not to spill it, watch out for traffic when crossing the street!
Food Trucks and Dessert Stands
Austin's mobile dessert scene is a vibrant part of the city's culinary culture, offering a range of sweet treats on the go. Key attractions include Gourdough's, for those seeking flavorful oversized donuts and around 23 “favorites” on their menu, and options for customers to create donuts with various fillings, toppings, and glaze.
Another local favorite is Holy Cacao, famous for its bite-sized chocolate cake balls, rich cake shakes, and all things chocolate—perfect for pairing with a nice cup of coffee.
As you head out to check out these trucks, remember to park safely and be mindful of the busy areas—they're often located where both foot and vehicle traffic can get heavy.
Instagram-Worthy Dessert Spots
Whether you're after a great ambiance or the perfect Instagram story, Austin's dessert scene has some serious gems for your feed. Bird Bird Biscuit, for example, offers vibrant pastries that feel more like an art gallery than a bakery.
Buttercream Crumbs is another standout known for visually stunning desserts, from custom cakes to cupcakes. Their signature buttercream frosting makes every visit feel like a sweet moment, not just a photo op. Just remember to stay aware of your surroundings and watch your step, especially in crowded spots like downtown, where pedestrian traffic can be overwhelming, especially around popular spots.
Key Takeaways
Austin's dessert scene is a real treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether grabbing a cozy morning pastry at Quack's 43rd Street Bakery, indulging in a creamy scoop of gelato at Dolce Neve, or going big with a giant donut at Gourdough's, the city has something for everyone.
And if you're looking to snap a pic (as we all do these days), spots like Bird Bird Biscuit and Buttercream Crumbs are perfect for those Insta-worthy moments. With the popularity of the Austin dessert scene only growing, there's no shortage of delicious sweets, and now is a great time to explore it.
While you're savoring these delicious treats, remember to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in bustling downtown areas. Crowded streets and tight parking can be tricky, so always prioritize safety. And if you do run into any accidents during your dessert adventures, an Austin-based accident lawyer can help guide you through your legal options.