Seattle's Iconic Desserts: Where To Find the Best Pastries and Sweet Treats

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It’s time to cover another delicious subject, and this time it’s Seattle and its sweet scene! Now, we're not just saying sweet as in charming — even though the Emerald City is definitely that — but sweet as in decadent, mouthwatering baked goods and desserts. You've got that right; Seattle is a bona fide haven for lovers of all things sugary and delicious.

You may expect Seattle to be a haven of freshly baked sourdough (Hello, pandemic hobbies!), baguettes, and brioche from local bakers, but it’s the desserts that set them apart. From Fremont to Greenwood, from Queen Anne to Belltown, Seattle is full of delicious sweetness.

Think of walking through the bustling, vibrant Pike Place Market, where the scent of freshly baked pastries wafts from the best bakeries in town. Or maybe, you're strolling down the street, a warm cup of Seattle's world-class coffee in hand, on the hunt for a rich piece of artisan chocolate or a freshly baked cupcake or Danish to go with it.

Or perhaps you're craving something a little more exotic? Seattle's dessert scene is as diverse as it is scrumptious, with an array of treats that will cater to every whim and desire — and pair with a latte any day.

This, darling, is your sassy tour guide to all things deliciously sweet in the city of Seattle. So grab a cup of your favorite brew, settle in, and let's uncover the city's iconic desserts and where to find them!

Seattle’s World-Renowned Chocolate

Prepare yourself because Seattle's chocolate scene is not for the faint-hearted! With artisan chocolatiers sprinkled across the city, you're never too far from your next cocoa fix. But don't think this is your ordinary, run-of-the-mill chocolate — oh no, honey! This is chocolate that commands respect.

Gray & Smoked Salt Caramels from Fran's Chocolates

Take Fran’s Chocolates, for instance, an iconic establishment that is nothing short of chocolate heaven. Their signature salted caramels — hand-dipped and sprinkled with artisan sea salt — will set your taste buds aflutter. And did we mention that they're a favorite of former President Obama? Well, if it's good enough for him…

Then, there's the Seattle Chocolate factory and shop, where you can not only satiate your chocolate cravings but also learn about the journey of the cocoa bean — from tree to truffle.

It's like a field trip for your sweet tooth! If you’re not just a passive connoisseur of chocolatey goodness and would like to learn how to wield its power for yourself, the Seattle Chocolate Factory also offers classes to help jumpstart your career as a chocolatier.

Last, but by no means least, is Theo Chocolate. As the first organic, fair-trade certified chocolate maker in North America, they're whipping up guilt-free treats that are as good for the planet as they are for your palate. Now, that's a win-win!

The Irresistible Pastries of Pike Place Market

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked pastries to draw you into a bustling marketplace and away from your plans…and when that marketplace is Pike Place Market, a sprawling foodie paradise lined with stalls overflowing with fresh produce, vibrant flowers, and — most importantly — a myriad of delectable sweet treats, it’s easy to spend the entire day taste-testing everything you can fit in your stomach.

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Chouquettes from Le Panier in Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is just as much about the experience as it is about the food. For your first stop, let's make a beeline to Le Panier. As authentic a French bakery as you'll find outside of Paris, you'll be dreaming of croissants, tarts, and macarons for days after just one visit!

Next door, you'll find Piroshky Piroshky, where the pastries take a delicious detour to Russia. From the sweet cheese and cherry roll to the decadent apple cinnamon roll, there's something for every pastry aficionado.

Then there's The Crumpet Shop, a staple of the market since the 70s. These are not just any crumpets, mind you, but warm, fluffy vessels of deliciousness, just begging to be slathered with honey, jam, or ricotta.

Each of these iconic spots offers a slice of Seattle's sweet history, served with a side of unforgettable flavor. So, are you ready to indulge, darling? Because Pike Place Market is waiting, and trust us, it's worth every single calorie!

The Best Companions for Your Seattle Cuppa Joe

Now, let's put two and two together. What's the best accompaniment to Seattle's world-class coffee? Some delightful pastry, of course! Coffee and dessert — now that's a power couple we can all stand behind.

Classic Ricotta Tart
Pecan Sticky Buns and Coffee from Macrina Bakery

First up, in the heart of West Seattle, we have Bakery Nouveau. It's a spot where European tradition meets Seattle innovation, resulting in pastries that are quite simply — out of this world! Don't miss their twice-baked almond croissant, which is a thing of beauty and a joy forever.

And then, darling, we have Macrina Bakery. Now, they've truly got the whole package. From the rustic loaves of bread to the delicate pastries and sumptuous cakes, this place is a must-visit. Their Morning Glory Muffin — a delightful mix of apple, coconut, and pecans — is the kind of wake-up call we wouldn't mind every morning!

Washington’s Penchant for Out of This World Fruit Pies

Oh, honey, did you think we'd forget about pie? Never! Washington's luscious apple and berry farms make for some of the most scrumptious pies you've ever had the pleasure of tasting.

High 5 Pie
Handmade Pies from High 5 Pie

Over in Phinney Ridge, A La Mode Pies will tantalize your senses with their delicious, homemade pies. The Blue Hawaiian — packed with blueberries, pineapple, and coconut — will transport you straight to a beachside getaway.

And we can't forget High 5 Pie in Capitol Hill. Here, the classic apple pie gets a twist with the addition of a caramel topping. But if you're feeling adventurous, go for their marionberry pie, a true Pacific Northwest specialty.

So, prepare to loosen that belt, dear, because these pies are worth every indulgent bite. Who knew fruits could be so decadently delicious? Well, Seattle knew, and now you do too!

Asian-Inspired Sweet Treats

You thought we were done? The sweetness never ends in Seattle! This city is a beautiful melting pot of cultures and cuisines, so of course, we have a vibrant Asian-influenced dessert scene too. So, ready to add a dash of the exotic to your dessert tour? Let's go!

Ensaymadas from Hood Famous Bakeshop

First up, we're jetting off to Japan — but you won't need your passport for this trip. At Fuji Bakery in the International District, you'll find a delicious fusion of French techniques and Japanese bakery flavors. From the flaky, cream-filled green tea croissant to the delicate strawberry shortcake, it's a taste of Tokyo right here in the Seattle area!

Next, we're hopping over to the Philippines with Hood Famous Bakeshop. This gem of a bakery is making waves with their deliciously unique take on traditional Filipino desserts. You absolutely can't miss their signature Ube Cheesecake — a vibrant purple treat that's as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious. And did we mention it's naturally purple, thanks to the ube, a Filipino yam? Sweet and stylish — we love to see it!

Last but certainly not least, we have Tokara. Now, if you've never had mochi before, you're in for a real treat. Imagine a soft, chewy exterior giving way to a range of irresistible fillings — from traditional red bean to matcha to the more experimental cookies and cream. And the best part? Mochi is gluten-free! So, for all our gluten-sensitive sweets lovers out there, this one's for you.

Seattle is known for embracing the new, the different, the unconventional. It's what makes this city — and its dessert scene — so special. So, go forth, explore, and taste your way through the sweetness of Seattle.

We promise you; it'll be an adventure for the ages! And remember, the world is your dessert platter.

Honorable Mentions

  • Columbia City Bakery
  • Byen Bakeri
  • Crumble & Flake
  • Dahlia Bakery

Takeaway

Oh, sweet tooth of ours, how we have spoiled you! From the velvety indulgence of Seattle's famous chocolates to the crisp, golden pastries of Pike Place Market, this city truly is a dessert paradise. Let's not forget the cozy coffee shops, serving up not just world-renowned brews, but delightful desserts to pair with your caffeine fix.

But it doesn't stop there! The city's pie scene, inspired by Washington's rich bounty of fruits, is a world unto itself. Not to mention the Asian-influenced delights, adding an exotic flair to Seattle's sugary offerings.

In short, Seattle is not just a city; it's a dessert-lover's playground, each neighborhood offering a new, exciting flavor to explore. The journey is all about tasting, discovering, and indulging in the diverse sweet treats the Emerald City has to offer. So, buckle up, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure.

And remember, darling, in the realm of desserts — calories don't count! Now, go forth and conquer that dessert scene with all joy and no guilt.

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