The Best Desserts in Charlottesville You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
I have no shame in admitting I have a sweet tooth. I would eat cookies for breakfast every single day if it didn’t happen to be so unhealthy. While I usually try and control myself - and my sugar intake - that doesn’t mean I’m not going to allow myself to indulge every now and again and there are some really unique sweet spots in Charlottesville.
From housemade ice creams to delicious flaky pies, there are a ton of sweet spots in Charlottesville to find desserts and sweet treats. I’m sharing my favorite places for the best desserts in Charlottesville. Check them out below:
The Best Desserts in Charlottesville You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Albemarle Baking Company
This is my go to spot for desserts in Cville because of these two words: Princess Cake.
You an find an abundance of delicious desserts to get at this local bakery, but my absolute favorite is the Princess Cake. Their take on a traditional Swedish dessert, this sinful item features vanilla sponge cake layered with bavarian cream and covered with a thin sheet of marzipan.
Cake Bloom
I’ll admit I love champagne mainly because I like bubbly things. Typically I like to have french fries or potato chips with it but when I heard there was a place serving cake with bubbles I was pretty on board with that idea as well. Plus, I can still get my chips.
This is another one of my favorite sweet spots in Cville, mainly because is just so happy and fun - I don’t think you could possibly be in a bad mood here. Another female owned business, they like to elevate and celebrate and do this by offering floral cakes, sparkling wine, and a great selection of items from local artisans. Additionally, they offer events and workshops like bubbly brunch and flower arranging, which is always fun.
Chaps Ice Cream
Located on the Downtown Mall, Chaps Ice Cream will make you feel like you stepped back into the good parts of the 1950’s. The environment is a true ice cream parlor feel and they make all of their flavors in house. You can also eat a full course meal here, as they offer breakfast sandwiches and burgers, though to not get ice cream here would be utter insanity.
Cou Cou Rachou
This bakery is the brainchild of pastry chef Rachel De Jong and one of my favorite spots. All of her items are delicious, but I have a soft spot for her apple pie for two, as this was what my husband and I had at our wedding in place of cake.
Iron Paffles & Coffee
I’ve been a big fan of Iron since it opened and I would go there for coffee before work each morning. The owner Kathryn Matthews, a hardworking female originally from England, was always so friendly and fun to chat with even while she was busy working away. Plus, it’s such a cool concept and backstory - read more about how it came to be here.
If you haven’t been able to enjoy one yet, paffles are puff pastry waffle sandwiches and they are flaky, decadent and delicious. My personal favorite is the Iron Maiden - a gooey and great combination of banana and nutella. Add a cup of a coffee and you have a wonderfully sinful way to start your day.
Petite Marie Bette
Pre Covid I would do a weekly run club on Wednesday nights and on Thursday mornings my friend and I would reward ourselves with coffee and carbs at Petite Marie Bette. I would always opt for a Prezzant Everything (a pretzel croissant with everything seasoning and yes, it is as amazing as it sounds) with an Americano and it was honestly my biggest reason for doing the run the night before. I no longer run, but I do still find ways to justify getting a treat at this adorable spot. If you’re feeling extra decadent, opt for their hot chocolate with house made marshmallow.
Pie Chest
Pie Chest is a great spot for both savory and sweet pies. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients, these homemade pies offer up flaky deliciousness that pairs oh so well with a great cup of coffee. As they are seasonal, the offerings change regularly but you are always guaranteed something fantastic.
Located in downtown Charlottesville, this is a nice spot to sit and enjoy a sweet treat while people watching. I will note they close in the afternoon, so if you are looking for a dessert to have at home you’ll either want to grab something earlier in the day. If opting for a whole pie, I would recommend ordering ahead of time, as they sell out quickly of their stock.
Sadly, they will be closing their doors on 3/14/2023, so plan to visit soon!
I can’t stress enough - if you find yourself in Charlottesville and are looking to indulge with a unique treat at amazing spots, you’ll want to hit up one of these fantastic Cville locations.
Cheers and happy eating!
