Phoenix isn’t just about stunning desert landscapes and cacti; it’s also a sweet haven for dessert lovers. For my family, a dessert tour isn’t just a day of indulgence—it’s a cherished tradition. It all started as a way to celebrate my daughter’s 17th birthday, and it quickly became an annual event that we eagerly anticipate each year. What makes it so special is the sense of discovery—unearthing hidden gems and unique flavors from local bakeries, ice cream shops, and dessert bars. These tours allow us to find new favorite spots we can visit year-round and recommend to others. Plus, we love supporting small businesses, making this not only a fun experience but a meaningful one as well. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, a dessert tour is the perfect way to explore Phoenix while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Narrowing Down Your Sweet Selections
Share suggestions through social media with friends and family, and save the posts throughout the year. Use those to narrow down your selections when planning your dessert tour. I recommend incorporating a variety of dessert selections, focusing on specialties so you can experience a little of everything.
Sweet Stops in Downtown Phoenix
Start your adventure in downtown Phoenix, where bakeries and dessert bars offer a little bit of everything. Whether you’re into decadent cakes, creamy gelatos, or unique local confections, you’ll find plenty to indulge in. If you’re lucky enough to come across a local food truck along the way, don’t miss the opportunity to grab a churro—they’re the real deal.
Recommendations: Urban Cookies, Churn, Banham’s Cheesecake, Hunnie Butter.
Scottsdale’s Upscale Dessert Scene
The Scottsdale area is known for its upscale vibe. This neighborhood has boutique patisseries and Instagram-worthy dessert spots. Think gourmet cupcakes, artisan chocolates, and dessert cocktails. This is the closest you will get to a European patio vibe in the valley.
Recommendations: Butta Cakes, JL Patisserie, Paris Rendez-Vous, PIEfection, Allora Gelato.
Family-Friendly Desserts in Tempe
Tempe is a delightful destination for families, featuring unique and whimsical spots that cater to both adventurous eaters and dessert enthusiasts. The ice cream parlors in the area are a true treat, often showcasing a variety of experimental flavors that promise to tantalize your taste buds and create unforgettable experiences. Tempe’s desserts offer a playful twist that will leave everyone smiling.
Recommendations: Honey 2Aa Bee Crepes.
Hidden Gems in Mesa and Gilbert
The suburbs of Gilbert and Mesa are home to hidden gems, such as dessert cafes offering house-made pastries and sweets inspired by global cuisines. These cozy spots are perfect for those seeking a more tranquil experience on their sweet journey, allowing you to savor every bite in an inviting atmosphere.
Recommendations: Batch Cookies, Eclipse Cookie Bar, Cielito Rosa Bakery.
Local Ingredients and Unique Flavors on the West Side
Food tours in Phoenix wouldn’t be complete without highlighting local ingredients. Areas like Glendale, Peoria, and Surprise offer a wealth of options that showcase flavors unique to the Southwest. Be sure to look for desserts featuring prickly pear, a cactus fruit native to Arizona, which adds a distinctive taste to dishes. You’ll also find many culinary influences from our neighbors to the south in this region.
Recommendations: The Sicilian Baker, My Daddy’s Italian Bakery.
Establish Opening Hours
Nothing is more disappointing than getting excited about a stop, only to get there and discover it’s closed. If you have a specific date you’re planning your dessert tour, make sure each location on your list is open, then determine the hours so you can map out where to start and end. If the location closes at 2 p.m., you don’t want it to be at the end of your list; it needs to be one of your first stops. Opening times could impact the order or location of town you end up in.
Mapping Out the Day
Living in a larger city like Phoenix, it may be easier to focus on a specific area of town, rather than trying to spread it out all over. However, visiting locations in different areas creates more time to spend with your group, as well as opportunities to meet up with friends or family in that area.
Once you have a list of destinations on your Google Maps, use the drag feature to put them in an efficient driving order. You need to make sure the locations will be open at the approximate time you will be in that area, but adding an activity like a museum or park in between will add to the experience.
Enjoy a Treat With Your Friends
After you’ve carefully planned your day and mapped out your itinerary, reach out to your friends who live nearby. Check if they can join you at one of the exciting locations you’ve chosen. Sharing this adventure with the people who mean the most to you will truly enhance the experience, making it even more memorable and fulfilling. Their presence will be the cherry on top of this wonderful day.
For more helpful tips, check out my blog on crafting your own food tour!
How Sweet It Is
Phoenix offers a delightful range of options for dessert lovers, making it a top destination for food tours. Whether you’re planning good trips with family or indulging in a solo quest for dessert sweets, this city has something for everyone. From prickly pear-inspired treats to family-friendly ice cream parlors, the possibilities are as endless as they are delicious. Start planning your dessert tour in Phoenix today and experience the sweeter side of the Southwest!
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