New York City is often compared to a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and its dessert scene is no different. Within the city’s concrete confines, one can discover an array of sweet establishments that reflect not just local flavors, but also an artistic flair that turns dessert into a spectacular experience. Here are ten exceptional dessert caterers scattered across various neighborhoods, each with a unique appeal that would enchant any palate.
1. Magnolia Bakery
Address: 401 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 462-2572
Website: www.magnoliabakery.com
Magnolia Bakery is akin to a culinary time capsule, transporting patrons back to simpler days with its American classic desserts. Famous for its banana pudding—layered perfection of cream, bananas, and cookies—this bakery offers a nostalgic flavor that resonates with many. Its charming locations invite you to indulge in cozy delights, from cupcakes to crumb cakes, making it a quintessential stop for any gathering.
2. Milk Bar
Address: 251 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 484-1440
Website: www.milkbarstore.com
A whimsical adventure awaits at Milk Bar, where dessert meets innovation. Known for the iconic “Cereal Milk” soft serve and extravagant layer cakes, this venue celebrates the playful side of baking. Their concoctions are a delightful twist on childhood favorites, crafting an experience that is whimsical yet sophisticated, making it perfect for contemporary celebrations.
3. DŌ, Cookie Dough Confections
Address: 550 LaGuardia Place, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 964-5085
Website: www.donutdough.com
DŌ is where dreams of raw cookie dough come to life. This caterer mesmerizingly transforms a nostalgic treat into a gourmet delight, allowing guests to indulge without the oven. With flavors ranging from classic chocolate chip to seasonal specials, each bite evokes a wave of comfort. A pop of color and fun awaits, capturing hearts as easily as it tantalizes taste buds.
4. The Sweet Life
Address: 24 3rd Avenue, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 477-5552
Website: www.sweetlifecatering.com
The Sweet Life embodies a bouquet of flavors that add a touch of elegance to dessert catering. With a focus on artisanal pastries and exquisite plated desserts, this gem offers remarkable finesse. Perfect for upscale events or intimate gatherings, their creations are not merely desserts but artists’ masterpieces, crafted to evoke admiration before they disappear in delightful bites.
5. Little Cupcake Bakeshop
Address: 30 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 966-4800
Website: www.littlecupcakebakeshop.com
Little Cupcake Bakeshop is testimony to the adage that good things come in small packages. Their charming neighborhood bakeshop offers a tantalizing selection of cupcakes, each adorned with whimsical frostings. With an ethos of sustainability and quality ingredients, their cupcakes tell a story of care, making them a sweet societal embrace perfect for eco-conscious events.
6. Two Little Red Hens
Address: 1652 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10028
Contact: (212) 774-0022
Website: www.twolittleredhens.com
Nestled on the Upper East Side, Two Little Red Hens specializes in home-style desserts that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Known for its Broadway-sized slices of cake and indulgent brownies, it’s a place where frosting dreams come true. Every dessert is designed with love, making it an ideal choice for cozy gatherings where heartfelt flavors take center stage.
7. Baked by Melissa
Address: 484 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024
Contact: (646) 559-2054
Website: www.bakedbymelissa.com
Baked by Melissa creates a symphony of mini cupcakes—perfectly petite bites that pack a punch of flavor. Their innovative flavor combinations are akin to an artist’s palette, offering a range that thrills the senses. Customizable for any celebration, these tiny wonders allow guests to taste multiple flavors without proxy, emerging as a colorful highlight to any event.
8. Ample Hills Creamery
Address: 623 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (347) 294-0991
Website: www.amplehills.com
Ample Hills Creamery is a land of ice cream dreams where flavors are a testament to creativity and nostalgia. Each scoop reflects a journey through childhood, bringing rich memories to life in unexpected flavors and textures. Perfect for summer gatherings or festive cheer, their ice cream comes with a story that makes every serving an unforgettable experience.
9. Sweets by Chloe
Address: 186 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 829-3104
Website: www.sweetsbychloe.com
For those who embrace a plant-based lifestyle, Sweets by Chloe stands as a refreshing oasis, offering vegan desserts that do not compromise on flavor. From luscious brownies to decadent cupcakes, each treat is a delightful nod to health-conscious indulgence. This boutique bakery excels in crafting desserts that tempt even the most devoted omnivore, spreading the joy of plant-based sweetness.
10. Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream
Address: 150 E 4th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (347) 464-2123
Website: www.vanleeuwenicecream.com
Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream showcases the artistry and craftsmanship in ice cream making, offering rich flavors and superb quality. Each pint is akin to a treasure chest, revealing layers of depth and richness that evoke joy in every spoonful. Perfect for celebrations, their ice cream guarantees a sweet touch that leaves a lasting impression on every event.
New York’s dessert catering scene is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of creativity, flavor, and tradition. From classic confections to innovative treats, these ten purveyors of sweetness not only satisfy cravings but also create memorable experiences for any occasion. Each address is a portal, beckoning dessert lovers to indulge and celebrate the finer things in life.
