YQG Sweet Spots
Top Picks for Desserts, Sweets, and Sugary Eats
As Julia Child once said, “A party without cake is really just a meeting.”
What about a party without cupcakes, pastries, or candy? And really, who even needs a party to enjoy something sweet?
Whether you’re searching for a decadent dessert to celebrate a special occasion or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth with a post-dinner treat, our region is full of amazing bakeries, sweet shops, and restaurants offering cakes, cookies, candy and all things carb.
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Looking for some of the best spots in Windsor-Essex for sweets, treats, and sugary eats? From Amherstburg to Lakeshore, here are a few of our top picks from across Essex County:
Windsor
Cookie Bar – 1093 Drouillard Rd.
Cookies and beer? The power couple we never knew we needed. This fun and funky shop in Windsor’s Ford City district specializes in ¼ pound craft cookies and also stocks a huge selection of craft beers you won’t find anywhere else.
But let’s get back to the cookies. With a list of signature creations (including Ore-WHOA, birthday cake, my all-time fave, the dark chocolate and pistachio Stach) plus a rotating menu of seasonal specialty flavours, cookie cakes, vegan options, and more, Cookie Bar is THE spot for cookies that are big in size and even bigger on taste.
Healthy Creations – 4013 County Rd. 46
Desserts that taste good AND are good for your tummy? Sign me up. Located just minutes from Walker Road, Healthy Creations is a 100% gluten-free bakery offering a great selection of breads, cookies, sweets, and more, all lovingly crafted for taste without compromise. No fillers. No fake stuff. No preservatives.
A great option for those with Celiac disease, but honestly, just a great option in general. You can taste the depth of flavour in everything they create, and I am absolutely hooked on their new chewy coconut bars (a must-try!) They also offer ready-to-bake meals and gluten-free take and bake pizzas, perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t feel like cooking.
LaSalle
Kava Café & Bakery – 5841 Malden Rd.
When I try to imagine what heaven looks like, it’s probably pretty close to Kava. This adorable boulangerie and patisserie, tucked into the corner of Malden Square Plaza, is baking up some of the most delectable breads, pastries and cookies I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating. On top of that, they also make a mean cup of coffee.
This is a must visit when you’re in the Lasalle area, and if you’re not, it’s worth the drive. The offer a huge daily selection of sourdough breads in flavours like cheddar jalapeno, blueberry, olive, pumpkin spice and more, as well as danishes, croissants, bars, brownies, cookies…you get the picture. Pro tip: be sure to explore every display case before trying to whittle down your order.
Oh, and while you’re there, be sure to snag a bite to eat; their turkey and brie sandwich on their homemade challah bread is ridiculously good.
Amherstburg
Evelyn’s Candy House – 63 Richmond St.
At the cutest little shop in the heart of Amherstburg, you can literally feel like a kid in a candy store. Whether you’re craving classic candy creations, house made fudge, saltwater taffy, or something ooey, gooey and oh so chocolatey, Evelyn’s will make you feel like you’ve stepped inside Willy Wonka’s factory.
Be sure to explore every nook and cranny for favourites including a huge selection of chocolate bars, vegan chocolate options, as well as seasonal treats (their holiday displays are nothing short of epic) and candy kabobs. Having trouble deciding or have a custom order? They’re also home to a lovely staff who are more than happy to guide you.
Warning: it’s hard to walk out of here with just one thing in your shopping bag.
The Farm House Market – 7601 Middle Side Rd.
Farm fresh produce, ready to heat meals, AND a huge selection of home baked treats? The Farm House Market is your one stop shop for all things local and delicious.
I always find something new (and tasty) every time I visit. While browsing their selection of butter tarts, pies, and cookies, a fellow customer recommend I snag a loaf of their freshly baked focaccia, which sells out almost immediately once it’s put out. I have two words: life changing. Chewy and crispy and light anf fluffy all at the same time. And the garlic parm on top? Chef’s kiss. Really, is there anything better than warm bread straight out of the oven?
TL:DR? Put the Farm House Market on your radar and get there early to experience fresh-baked bliss.
The Panetteria – 248 Ramsay St.
Some of my favourite bread heads in Essex County, the team behind this boutique shop are always baking up a variety of breads and pastries that will leave you craving more.
A few personal favourites (if I HAD to pick) would definitely be their strawberry galettes and Nutella almond chocolate croissants. Owner Anna knows me so well when I come in that she asks if I need napkins because she knows that I will 100% be devouring at least one of my purchases on the drive home.
From cinnamon rolls to cookies and fresh sourdough, this tiny bakery packs a big punch with amazing variety and killer flavours. P.S. don’t sleep on their scones. Delish.
Golden Oven Bakery – 290 Sandwich St. S, Amherstburg & 1794 Westcott Rd., Windsor
Buttery croissants the size of your head stuffed with everything from fresh whipped cream to fruit, chocolate, cookies…and even topped with other baked goods!
Do I have your attention?
With two locations (Amherstburg and Windsor), you’re never far from Golden Oven’s epic creations.
In addition to their renowned selection of giant stuffed croissant, this European-style bakery is also well stocked with an incredible collection of cheesecakes, cakes, macarons, fresh bread, tarts, eclairs, and more, all baked fresh daily and crafted to be picture perfect. Every item is not only ultra Instagrammable, it’s also ultra-flavourful.
My ‘must try’ picks? The Dubai chocolate stuffed croissant or the cannoli croissant. But really, any item choose will have you instantly hooked.
Essex
Little House of Cupcakes and More – 108 Talbot St. N
I’m wondering if this place would be open to a name change? I’m thinking something like, “Little House of Cupcakes and SO MUCH more!”
This adorable little shop in the heart of Essex is not only home to a delicious assortment of cupcakes (including the new chocolate coconut crunch OMG), it’s also the spot for a huge assortment of classic candy, chocolate, plus other delightful baked goods like peanut butter balls, cookies, butter tarts, macarons, shortbread…the list goes on.
The shop has a steady flow of regulars who stop in weekly for their fix, and if you’ve been there you know why; once you get a taste for their heavenly treats, it’s hard not to come back for seconds…or thirds.
Lakeshore
The Iron Kettle Commissary – 6305 Main St., Comber
Located in a gorgeously restored historical building on Comber’s main street, this charming bakery is serving up some of the most buttery, irresistible pastries in southwestern Ontario. Visitors come from up and down the 401 to get their hands on the team’s signature creations including a rotating variety of croissant, cruffins, cookies, scones, breads, and choux, a French pastry filled with velvety cream.
One of my personal faves? Their almond croissant; twice baked, soaked in almond syrup then topped with sliced almonds. A (very) close second? The pistachio croissant, stuffed to the brim with the most decadent pistachio cream.
While you’re there, be sure to snag a frozen pot pie or two; great to have on hand for those nights you want a home-cooked meal you didn’t have to cook yourself.
Wagner Orchards & Estate Winery – 1222 Lakeshore Rd. 103
Looking for delicious pies and pastries with a side of family fun? Wagner’s offers something for everyone; from apple picking and tractor rides in the fall to ciders, wine, farm-raised meats, and fresh-from-the-oven baked goods.
Using old family recipes and the highest quality local produce, they create mouth-watering desserts like like the aforementioned pies, as well as cookies, turnovers, and the must-try apple strudel.
Whatever the reason for your visit, you need to make sure you leave with one of their classic apple pies in hand. With perfectly spiced apples and a flaky, sugared crust that’s to die for, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion…even if that occasion is watching Netflix on the couch.
Leamington
Lakeside Bakery Deli Café – 286 Erie St. S.
For 25 years, Lakeside’s handcrafted cakes and pastries have sweetened countless milestones for multiple generations of families across Essex County; from baby showers and first birthdays to communions, weddings, and anniversaries.
But you don’t need a special occasion to visit; this Leamington mainstay is open daily with fresh bread, as well as cases chockfull of their renowned pastry offerings, like meticulously crafted cakes, cupcakes, cannoli, éclairs, turnovers, croissants, tarts, and more. Be sure to try the Portuguese custard tarts…actually, be sure to try literally everything. Once you sample their delightful offerings, you’ll see why the business has become a destination for so many.
Bonus tip: want to learn baking tips and tricks from Lakeside’s expert team? Be sure to check their social media for upcoming workshops hosted onsite, including cake and cookie decorating classes.
Kingsville
Miller’s Bakery – 21 Chestnut St.
Miller’s in Kingsville is epitome of what every bakery should be: a beautifully bright space that smells like heaven with the sweetest staff, good vibes, and of course, a unique assortment of treats baked fresh daily.
“These are the prettiest thing we baked today,” smiled the lady at the counter during my most recent visit. She was placing the cutest little mini pumpkin pies in the display case and she was right; they looked amazing. Spoiler alert: they also tasted amazing.
This is another one of those places where it’s hard to pick JUST a few things. Do you go with a classic chocolate chip cookie or a cream cheese Danish? Or a bear claw? A scone? Their butter tarts are also a fan favourite. My current obsession? Their morning buns; a croissant-type creation with a hint of orange, rolled in sugar. Pastry perfection. You can’t help but leave this place with a smile on your face (and a very full belly.)
Meleg’s Lakeview Orchard & Cider Mill – 166 Arner Townline
A family farm destination offering a variety of fruit, fresh-pressed cider and drool-worthy treats from June till November, Meleg’s is home to some of the most delightful donuts in Essex County.
Visit them each season for a different “you pick” experience; from strawberries, blueberries, and cherries, to peaches, apples, raspberries and more. All those fresh fruits also make their way into the delicious baked goods in their on-site market, like tarts, loaves, and of course, pies.
Of course, as I mentioned, it’s the freshly made donuts that really steal the show here. Choose from classic or cinnamon sugar (or get a mix of both) and watch them being made right before your eyes. The real challenge is making sure they survive the car ride home.
Tecumseh
Casa Miro – 1141 Lesperance Rd.
One of the most frequent questions I receive through my blog is “where do I find crepes?” The best spot in Essex County for crepes also happens to be one of the cutest spots to grab brunch or coffee with your friends; Casa Miro.
This Spanish tapas café offers a delightful menu of panini, sharables, and more, as well as both savoury and sweet crepes, made fresh to order. Choose from one of their signature creations (I love the s’mores, or the classic Suzette,) or build your own, with fillings like Nutella, banana, fresh whipped cream, or house-made strawberry compote.
Prefer to sip your sweets? Check out their specialty beverage menu, featuring a Nutella latte, hot chocolate, and café bombon.
Original Blog Post By: Jen Brignall-Strong of Tailgate Takeout
Click here for even more locations to find sweet treats in Windsor Essex!
