A Sweet Tooth’s Dream: The Top 5 Must-Visit Dessert Shops in Calgary

If you find yourself wandering the streets of Calgary with a craving for something sweet, look no further. The city, often known for its breathtaking mountain views and vibrant energy, is also home to some of the most delightful and tempting dessert spots you’ll ever encounter. From decadent pastries to innovative ice creams, Calgary offers a wide variety of treats that will leave you wanting more.

For anyone who considers themselves a dessert enthusiast, this guide will take you through the top five dessert shops in the city. Each offers its own unique flavor and atmosphere, and they are all worth a visit. Whether you’re here for a short stay or a longer visit, indulge your sweet tooth with these unforgettable stops.

1. Doughnut Party: Where Innovation Meets Sugar

Address: 306 17th Ave SW

Calgary’s Doughnut Party takes the humble doughnut to a whole new level. With a focus on innovative flavors and high-quality ingredients, this trendy shop is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys a good twist on the traditional. Their creations aren’t just ordinary donuts; they’re masterpieces designed to surprise and delight at every bite.

The selection rotates frequently, but some all-time favorites include the “Maple Bacon,” where the richness of maple syrup is paired with crispy bacon bits, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory. If you’re looking for something even more adventurous, the “Cinnamon Roll Doughnut” is a fusion of two beloved desserts, giving you the soft, doughy texture of a cinnamon roll with the crispy exterior of a doughnut.

Aside from the regular donut flavors, they also offer seasonal specialties. The “Pumpkin Spice Latte Doughnut” during the fall is worth making a special trip for. You won’t find a more delicious marriage of seasonal flavors and a doughnut anywhere else.

Each doughnut is handcrafted daily, ensuring freshness and quality. The vibrant decor and lively atmosphere only add to the experience.

2. The Cheesecake Café: A Slice of Heaven in Every Bite

Address: 150, 140 10th Ave SE

Cheesecake lovers, brace yourselves. The Cheesecake Café in Calgary is a paradise for anyone who can appreciate the magic of a perfectly made cheesecake. Offering an extensive selection of flavors, from classic New York-style to more daring combinations, this is a spot you’ll return to time and again.

Their cheesecake menu is a masterpiece in itself, with each slice boasting a rich and velvety texture. The “Original New York Cheesecake” is a timeless favorite, smooth and creamy with just the right amount of tanginess. If you want something more decadent, try the “Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake,” where the richness of peanut butter and chocolate envelops the creamy filling in a way that will make your taste buds dance.

For those who prefer lighter options, their “Lemon Meringue Cheesecake” is refreshingly tart, with a fluffy meringue topping that adds a delightful contrast to the citrusy base. You can also enjoy these cheesecakes in pie format, mini versions, or even as a cheesecake jar – perfect for taking away and enjoying on the go.

The cozy ambiance of the café adds to its charm, with comfortable seating and a welcoming atmosphere, making it the ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon with a slice of your favorite dessert.

3. Mimi’s Cookie Bar: An Ongoing Love Affair with Cookies

Address: 308 14th St NW

Mimi’s Cookie Bar is the stuff of cookie dreams. It’s the kind of place where cookie lovers can indulge in warm, gooey cookies fresh from the oven, with a variety of creative and mouthwatering flavors. Whether you’re into classic chocolate chip or you want something that pushes the boundaries, Mimi’s has something to satisfy every craving.

The cookies here are thick, chewy, and downright decadent. The “Churro Cookie” is a popular favorite, dusted with cinnamon sugar for a sweet, comforting taste that takes you back to your childhood. If you’re looking for a bit more indulgence, the “S’mores Cookie” combines chunks of gooey marshmallow, graham cracker, and chocolate, making it feel like you’re eating the dessert version of the classic campfire treat.

However, the real showstopper is the “Nutella-Stuffed Cookie.” As you break into the soft cookie, you’re met with a warm, gooey center of rich Nutella that oozes out in the most satisfying way. You won’t be able to resist taking another bite (or two, or three).

The small shop is a charming place to visit, with a sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting in the air, making it impossible to walk by without being drawn in. If you’re lucky, you might catch the tail end of a batch just out of the oven – the perfect excuse to grab an extra one to go!

4. The Sugar Cube: A Cupcake Lover’s Ultimate Destination

Address: 1414 14th St NW

For anyone with a soft spot for cupcakes, The Sugar Cube is a paradise you can’t miss. Located just north of downtown, this bakery specializes in creating beautifully decorated and deliciously flavored cupcakes that are perfect for every occasion.

Each cupcake is a miniature work of art. The “Salted Caramel Cupcake” is a favorite among patrons, with its rich caramel frosting perfectly complemented by a hint of sea salt, making every bite a balance of sweetness and savory depth. The “Lemon Lavender Cupcake” provides a more floral and citrusy experience, offering a light and refreshing flavor with an elegant finish.

The best part? The cupcakes are available in both mini and regular sizes, allowing you to sample more flavors or share with friends. For those with dietary restrictions, The Sugar Cube also offers gluten-free and vegan options without compromising on flavor.

The intimate, cozy shop is the perfect place to stop by on a weekend afternoon. You can sit, sip on a coffee, and enjoy a selection of cupcakes, while the world outside continues on its busy pace. The décor of the shop adds to the charm, with its vintage-inspired design and colorful display of desserts.

5. Fiasco Gelato: A Cool Dessert for Every Season

Address: 2202 4th St NW

Fiasco Gelato is not just another gelato shop. It’s a beloved destination for anyone who’s serious about gelato. Using locally sourced ingredients and Italian-inspired recipes, Fiasco takes gelato to new heights. The gelato here is incredibly smooth, creamy, and comes in a wide variety of bold, inventive flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

One of the signature offerings is their “Raspberry Cheesecake Gelato,” where the tartness of the raspberries perfectly complements the rich, creamy base. If you’re in the mood for something more decadent, the “Tiramisu Gelato” offers the perfect combination of coffee, chocolate, and mascarpone – a true tribute to the traditional Italian dessert.

However, one of their standout creations is the “Honey Lavender Gelato.” The floral notes of lavender combine effortlessly with the sweetness of honey, making for a refreshing yet indulgent treat. This is one flavor that will make you forget you’re even eating gelato – it’s that good.

Fiasco also offers a variety of dairy-free and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a scoop of their delicious creations. Whether you’re enjoying it in a cone or a cup, their gelato is the perfect way to cool off in Calgary’s warmer months, or even when the weather turns cold, as gelato is a treat that knows no season.

Calgary’s dessert scene is a world of its own, where creativity meets flavor in the most delightful ways. These five spots not only offer outstanding desserts, but they also provide an experience—one that allows you to savor the little moments that make life sweet. Each of these shops brings something unique to the table, so don’t be afraid to indulge and explore as many as you can while you’re in the city. There’s always something new waiting to surprise you, and you’ll surely leave with a satisfied smile and a full stomach.