Let’s be honest—sometimes only a sweet treat will do. Lucky for you, Ann Arbor is home to an array of incredible dessert destinations, from small-batch bakeries to iconic ice cream shops. After doing some extensive “research” (at the expense of my gym goals), I’ve curated a list of the absolute best spots for sweets in A2. Your taste buds are about to thank you!
The Sweet Scene: Ann Arbor’s Must-Try Dessert Destinations
1. Blank Slate Creamery
There’s no better place to kick off this list than Blank Slate. This spot has completely spoiled me when it comes to ice cream, thanks to flavors like Coffee & Cookies and their seasonal Lavender Honey. Insider tip: if you can swing by on a weekday afternoon, you’ll avoid the long weekend lines. Better yet, arrive around 3 PM to catch the delicious scent of fresh waffle cones being made. Trust me, this place is worth the hype.
2. The Lunch Room Bakery & Cafe
Yes, it’s vegan, but don’t let that stop you! The Lunch Room has made believers out of even the most skeptical dessert lovers with its rich chocolate chip cookies and decadent pumpkin cheesecake bars. Since everything here is plant-based, you can justify an extra treat or two, right? They also serve up seasonal specialties that deserve a spot on your must-try list, especially when fall flavors are in full swing.
3. Lab
Lab brings a unique twist to Ann Arbor’s dessert scene. Known for handcrafted chocolates that look almost too beautiful to eat, this spot’s sea salt caramels are pure magic. They even offer chocolate-making workshops, so you can try your hand at creating treats of your own. For a cozy winter escape, grab a cup of their hot chocolate, made with real chocolate shavings and topped with homemade marshmallows—deliciously indulgent and perfect for cold Michigan days.
4. Zingerman’s Next Door Cafe
It wouldn’t be a guide to Ann Arbor’s sweet spots without mentioning Zingerman’s. This beloved café is famous for its baked goods, especially the Magic Brownies and cream cheese coffee cake. For a budget-friendly option, sign up for their newsletter to receive alerts on “happy hour” deals when they offer day-old pastries at half price. These treats may be a little less fresh, but they’re still incredibly tasty.
5. Le Bon Macaron
Want to feel like you’re in Paris? Le Bon Macaron’s vibrant, delicate treats are just what you need. From lavender to Earl Grey, their macarons are as delightful as they are photogenic. They rotate seasonal flavors, so you’ll always have something new to try. Follow them on Instagram for updates on their latest creations—my favorite is the Michigan Cherry macaron, which is the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
6. Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea
Sweetwaters isn’t just a coffee spot; it’s also a haven for dessert lovers. The Imperial Red Bean Buns and cream top brownies are legendary, fueling many a work session with their perfect combination of sugar and caffeine. Pro tip: try asking for their “Cloud Nine”—a unique mix of sea salt cream top and chocolate sauce. It’s a little-known secret that makes this spot feel even cozier.
7. Insomnia Cookies
Late-night cravings? Insomnia Cookies has you covered. Known for delivering warm cookies until 3 AM, this spot is a go-to for study breaks and post-bar snacks. Their cookie sandwiches are deliciously decadent, and if you’re looking for a recommendation, try ordering them slightly undercooked for a gooey, irresistible treat. And don’t miss their cookie butter shake; it’s the ultimate guilty pleasure.
8. Washtenaw Dairy
For an old-school experience, head to Washtenaw Dairy. This no-frills spot is cash-only, but their donuts and ice cream are beloved by locals. Get there early—when they run out, they’re out for the day. Don’t underestimate the plain glazed donut; it’s deceptively simple but packed with flavor. On summer evenings, the line for their ice cream stretches down the block, making it a true Ann Arbor tradition.
9. Cake Crusader
Don’t let its unassuming exterior fool you—Cake Crusader is where cake dreams come true. Their custom cakes are perfect for celebrations, but it’s their everyday slices that really steal the show. The red velvet is a fan favorite, and on Thursdays from 3-5 PM, you can sample mini slices of different flavors during their “Slice Happy Hour.” Consider yourself warned: it’s hard to leave with just one slice.
10. Morgan & York’s Dessert Counter
Morgan & York is known for its wine and cheese, but their dessert counter is a hidden gem in its own right. Their French-style pastries are made fresh daily, and the chocolate croissants are easily some of the best in town. If you’re around on the weekend, don’t miss the bread pudding—it has a bit of a cult following, and once you try it, you’ll understand why.
11. TeaHaus’ Dessert Case
TeaHaus is all about the art of tea, but their pastry selection is worth a visit on its own. The Opera cake and fruit tarts look like they belong in a European patisserie, and they taste just as good as they look. Try pairing their black forest cake with a pot of Earl Grey for an afternoon treat that’ll make you feel like you’ve taken a mini trip to Vienna.
12. Iorio’s Gelateria
Yes, we’ve already covered ice cream, but gelato is another story, and Iorio’s does it right. They bring authentic Italian techniques to Ann Arbor with rich flavors like pistachio (made with real Sicilian pistachios) and stracciatella that will leave you craving more. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their wine-inspired sorbets—the Prosecco sorbet is a perfect pick-me-up for warm summer days.
Making the Most of Your Sweet Adventure
Ann Arbor’s dessert spots are amazing, but a few tips can help you maximize your experience:
- Check for student discounts: Many places offer them with a valid student ID.
- Follow on social media: These businesses often announce flash sales and seasonal specials, so keep an eye out.
- Visit during off-peak hours: Most places get busy after dinner, so stopping by in the afternoon or late morning will help you avoid lines and get the freshest treats.
- Ask for samples: Don’t be shy! Many spots are more than happy to let you try a flavor or two before committing.
- Join loyalty programs: They’re often worth it—my Blank Slate punch card collection can attest to that!
The Sweet Side of Ann Arbor’s Dessert Scene
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking to reward yourself after a tough day, or simply want to enjoy a delicious treat, Ann Arbor has a dessert destination that’s perfect for you. What I love most about this city’s sweets is that they reflect the spirit of Ann Arbor itself—a balance of tradition and innovation, elegance and comfort, and timeless recipes with fresh, creative twists.
Now, excuse me—writing this has left me with a serious sweet tooth. Time for some more “research”!
