National Dessert Day is the perfect occasion to treat yourself to something sweet. Celebrated on October 14th, it’s a day dedicated to indulging in all things sugary and delicious. Northern Illinois boasts a fantastic array of bakeries and sweet shops, each offering unique and tempting treats. This article will guide you through 17 of the best places in the region to celebrate National Dessert Day. From award-winning bakeries to charming local shops, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
Whether you’re a fan of classic cakes, flaky pastries, creamy ice cream, or decadent chocolates, Northern Illinois has it all. This list covers a diverse range of options, ensuring that your sweet cravings are fully satisfied. Get ready to embark on a delightful journey through the region’s top dessert destinations, perfect for making National Dessert Day truly special.
Prepare to explore the best bakeries and sweet shops Northern Illinois has to offer. We’ll cover a variety of locations, from Yorkville to Geneva, highlighting their signature items and what makes them stand out. So, skip dinner and head straight for the good stuff as we dive into the world of Northern Illinois’ sweetest creations!
Sweet Temptations Dessert Co. – Yorkville
Located in Yorkville, Sweet Temptations Dessert Co. is an award-winning bakery that crafts delectable desserts from scratch. While they specialize in creating stunning desserts for weddings and special occasions, their sweet shop is also open to the public. This locally owned bakery offers a wide range of treats, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every craving. According to their website, they focus on “creating unforgettable moments with every bite”.
Visitors can choose from an array of cookies, cupcakes, truffles, cheesecakes, and bars, each bursting with flavor. Sweet Temptations is open to the public on Fridays from 2 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 728 E. Veterans Parkway, Yorkville. This makes it a perfect weekend destination for those seeking a sweet escape.
What sets Sweet Temptations apart is their commitment to quality and creativity. Their made-from-scratch approach ensures that every dessert is fresh and delicious. With such a diverse menu, you can explore new flavors and find your new favorite treat. Be sure to check them out for a delightful experience.
Cheesecakes by James – Shorewood
If you’re craving a rich cheesecake, Cheesecakes by James in Shorewood is the place to go. This shop offers a variety of decadent cheesecakes perfect for taking home and enjoying. The flavor selection includes classics like blueberry, cherry, and raspberry, as well as unique options like Oreo chocolate chip, triple chocolate, and Reese’s peanut butter cup. According to customer reviews, their cheesecakes are known for their creamy texture and rich flavor.
In addition to whole cheesecakes, Cheesecakes by James also offers cheesecake bite trays and personal cheesecakes, making it easy to sample multiple flavors. They also take holiday and special orders, ensuring you can have the perfect cheesecake for any occasion. The shop is located at 150 Brook Forest Ave., Suite D, Shorewood.
The variety of flavors and convenient options make Cheesecakes by James a standout destination for cheesecake lovers. Whether you’re looking for a classic flavor or something more adventurous, you’re sure to find a cheesecake that satisfies your sweet tooth. Don’t miss out on this Shorewood gem!
Baker Street – Dixon
Located in the heart of downtown Dixon, Baker Street is a multifaceted destination that serves as a cafe, bakery, and coffee roaster. Here, you can enjoy a cup of organic, freshly roasted coffee paired with a homemade scone or muffin. Baker Street also specializes in creating custom cakes and desserts for weddings and other special occasions. Their menu is packed with gourmet cupcakes, homemade pies, and lemon blueberry biscuits.
The cafe prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and offering a cozy atmosphere where customers can relax and indulge. Their commitment to freshness and flavor makes it a local favorite. You can find Baker Street at 111 W. 1st St., Dixon. Visit the provided link for more information.
What sets Baker Street apart is its combination of excellent coffee and freshly baked goods. It’s a perfect spot for a morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up. The variety of offerings ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The cafe is a true gem in Dixon, making it a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
HEY SUGAR – Geneva
HEY SUGAR in Geneva lives up to its name, offering a haven for sugar enthusiasts. While they are famous for their English toffee, their menu extends far beyond that. Other popular items include a variety of cupcake flavors, frosting shots, cakesicles, soft-serve ice cream, cookie dough bites, shakes, and a wide selection of coffees, hot cocoas, and teas. Their expansive menu ensures there’s something for every sweet craving.
Located at 507 S. 3rd St., Geneva, HEY SUGAR is a vibrant and inviting spot for both locals and visitors. The shop aims to create a fun and indulgent experience for all who walk through their doors. Customer testimonials often highlight their unique offerings and friendly service.
The sheer variety of treats available at HEY SUGAR makes it a standout destination. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cupcake or something more adventurous like a frosting shot, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s a perfect place to celebrate National Dessert Day with friends and family.
Atrevete Confections – Montgomery
For those seeking macarons and other French pastries, Atrevete Confections in Montgomery is a must-visit. Owner and chef Jaqueline Mejia blends traditional French baking techniques with her own creative ideas to craft decadent pastries and desserts. The shop offers a variety of items, including eclairs, cookies, tarts, cheesecakes, and croissants.
Macaron flavors include birthday cake, vanilla, cherry berry, salted caramel, lemon, and coffee, providing a range of options to suit different palates. Located at 216 N. River St., Montgomery, Atrevete Confections is a local favorite known for its high-quality ingredients and beautiful presentation.
What makes Atrevete Confections special is the combination of classic French techniques with innovative flavors. The attention to detail and commitment to quality result in pastries that are both delicious and visually appealing. It’s an excellent place to indulge in a little bit of Parisian elegance right in Montgomery.
Pots and Pies Bakery – Crystal Lake
Visit Pots and Pies Bakery, a Parisian-themed bakery in downtown Crystal Lake, to explore their rotating specials along with a wide variety of sweet and savory pastries, pies, cakes, and more. The bakery offers fruit pies, including classics like cherry, peach, and blueberry, as well as banana cream and lemon meringue. Other sweets include eclairs, cream puffs, tiramisu brownies, and ice cream cookie sandwiches.
Located at 67 E. Woodstock St., Crystal Lake, Pots and Pies is known for its charming atmosphere and diverse menu. A new location is set to open in Huntley in November. The bakery aims to provide customers with a taste of Paris in the heart of Crystal Lake.
The Parisian theme and extensive menu make Pots and Pies a unique destination. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory pastry or a sweet treat, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. The upcoming Huntley location will make it even more accessible to those in the area.
Elleson’s Bakery – Sycamore
Elleson’s Bakery is a family-owned establishment that has been providing freshly baked goods and sweets to DeKalb County since 1987. The recipes for their cakes, cookies, doughnuts, and other goodies have been passed down through generations. Elleson’s is particularly famous for their cinnamon roll bread, sprinkled with sugar.
Located at 344 W. State St., Sycamore, Elleson’s Bakery is a local institution. Their commitment to tradition and quality has made them a beloved part of the community. For more information, you can call them at 815-895-4533.
The history and tradition behind Elleson’s Bakery make it a special place. The fact that their recipes have been passed down through generations speaks to their commitment to quality and consistency. Their cinnamon roll bread is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.
The Ottawa Bakery – Ottawa
The Ottawa Bakery is the perfect place to end your trip to the Starved Rock area. Enjoy homemade cookies, cannolis, cakes, cupcakes, fudge, doughnuts, cinnamon rolls, and more. You can also grab a warm or iced cup of coffee. Savory items like quiche and hot ham and cheddar pastries are also on the menu. This small-batch bakery is locally owned and located in downtown Ottawa.
Located at 630 Court St., Ottawa, The Ottawa Bakery offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Visit the provided link for more information. The bakery prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and providing excellent customer service.
The Ottawa Bakery’s diverse menu and convenient location make it a perfect stop for anyone visiting the Starved Rock area. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a treat after a day of exploring.
Angie’s Sugar Buzz Bakery – Sandwich
After a long day, relax and unwind at Angie’s Sugar Buzz Bakery in Sandwich. Opened in 2014 by local resident Angie Davis, this bakery offers a variety of treats made fresh each day from scratch. Guests can enjoy a freshly brewed coffee, cappuccino, or espresso with a pastry, pie, muffin, cookie, or cupcake. Be sure to check out their selection of holiday-themed desserts.
Located at 1004 E. Church St., Sandwich, Angie’s Sugar Buzz Bakery is a community favorite. The bakery aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere and delicious treats for all who visit.
The fact that all treats are made fresh daily from scratch sets Angie’s Sugar Buzz Bakery apart. The combination of excellent coffee and delicious baked goods makes it a perfect place to relax and unwind. The holiday-themed desserts add a festive touch, making it a great destination year-round.
CheeseKake Ko. – Ashton
CheeseKake Ko. in Ashton is the go-to place for cheesecake lovers. This locally owned shop offers about 50 flavors of cheesecake on their custom menu. Choices range from simple varieties like banana cream pie, lemon bar, and red velvet to creations inspired by cereals and candies, such as Reese’s peanut butter cups, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Fruity Pebbles, Twix, and Little Debbie Zebra Cakes.
There’s even a cheesecake inspired by Sesame Street’s Cookie Monster – a blue cake with cookie crumbles, chocolate swirls, and googly eyes. CheeseKake Ko. is located at 906 Main St. in downtown Ashton.
The sheer variety of cheesecake flavors makes CheeseKake Ko. a unique destination. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or something more adventurous, you’re sure to find a cheesecake that excites your taste buds. The Cookie Monster cheesecake is a particularly fun and whimsical option.
All Chocolate Kitchen – Geneva
All Chocolate Kitchen in Geneva is the brainchild of award-winning chef Alain Roby. This iconic sweet shop offers homemade gelato, gourmet chocolates, a rotating selection of seasonal desserts, fudge, and more. There’s also a coffee bar and savory delights like pizzas and quiches. Marvel at Chef Roby’s incredible chocolate and sugar sculptures, some of which have been featured on national TV shows.
Located at 33 S. 3rd St., Geneva, All Chocolate Kitchen is a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers. The shop aims to provide a luxurious and indulgent experience for all who visit.
The combination of exquisite chocolates, stunning sculptures, and savory options makes All Chocolate Kitchen a unique destination. It’s a perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth and admire the artistry of Chef Roby. The fact that his sculptures have been featured on national TV speaks to their quality and creativity.
Haylie B’s Bakery – Batavia
Haylie B’s Bakery in Batavia specializes in scratch-made cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and bar desserts. The flavors of their delicious treats vary monthly. Some cupcake flavors include blueberry pancake, cookies & cream, and mocha chip, in addition to classic chocolate and vanilla. Try a lemon cheesecake cookie or oatmeal cream pie!
Located at 109 E. Wilson St., Batavia, Haylie B’s Bakery offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Visit the provided link for more information. The bakery aims to provide customers with fresh, high-quality treats.
The rotating menu and unique flavor combinations make Haylie B’s Bakery a standout destination. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cupcake or something more adventurous, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. The lemon cheesecake cookie and oatmeal cream pie are particularly tempting options.
Aurelio’s Bake Shop – Sterling
Aurelio’s Bake Shop in Sterling is owned by “cake artist” Aurelio Gallardo, who can create the perfect dessert for your wedding, quinceañera, anniversary, or any special event. He can even make 3-D cakes! The bake shop is also known for their delicious thumbprint cookies, cupcakes, leches cups, and cake pops.
Located at 2907 Locust St., Sterling, Aurelio’s Bake Shop is a local favorite for custom cakes. Visit Aurelio’s Bake Shop’s page for more information.
The ability to create custom 3-D cakes sets Aurelio’s Bake Shop apart. Whether you’re planning a wedding or a special event, Aurelio Gallardo can create a cake that is both delicious and visually stunning. The thumbprint cookies, cupcakes, leches cups, and cake pops are also worth trying.
Milano Bakery – Joliet
Milano Bakery in Joliet brings old-world baking traditions to the community. This family-owned bakery offers more than 50 varieties of rolls and bread, along with pastries like strudel, coffee cakes, danish, and doughnuts. They also have scrumptious desserts like dessert bars, cheesecakes, pies, brownies, mini pastries, and gourmet cookies. Milano Bakery can create the perfect custom cake for your special occasion.
Located at 433 S. Chicago St., Joliet, Milano Bakery is a local institution known for its high-quality baked goods.
The extensive variety of rolls, bread, pastries, and desserts makes Milano Bakery a one-stop shop for all your baking needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple loaf of bread or a custom cake for a special occasion, you’re sure to find it here. The old-world baking traditions add a touch of nostalgia and authenticity.
Mad Batter Bakery & Confections – St. Charles
Mad Batter Bakery & Confections in St. Charles is a cute “neighborhood bakery” that’s a great spot for breakfast pastries like croissants, muffins, and cinnamon rolls. They also offer yeast or cake doughnuts in flavors like apple cinnamon preserve and blueberry glazed. Pick up a gourmet cupcake, mini cannoli, cream puff, or fudge-covered brownie bite for a delicious after-dinner treat. Mad Batter specializes in custom cookies and cakes for special events.
Located at 320 Main St., St. Charles, Mad Batter Bakery & Confections is a community favorite known for its friendly service and delicious treats.
The wide variety of breakfast pastries and desserts makes Mad Batter Bakery & Confections a great destination for any time of day. Whether you’re in the mood for a morning pastry or an after-dinner treat, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. The custom cookies and cakes are perfect for special events.
Spring Valley Bakery – Spring Valley
Spring Valley Bakery is an award-winning bakery known for its creatively decorated cookies and cupcakes, as well as specialty holiday creations. Try a homemade pie, glazed doughnut, or warm pastry with your morning cup of coffee.
Located at 119 W. St. Paul St., Spring Valley, this bakery is a must-visit. Visit the provided link for more information.
The creatively decorated cookies and cupcakes make Spring Valley Bakery a standout destination. Whether you’re looking for a special holiday treat or a simple pastry to enjoy with your coffee, you’re sure to find something to delight your taste buds.
Krumpets Bakery – Fulton
Krumpets Bakery in Fulton has been serving “elegantly baked” treats for over a decade, using only handmade ingredients. Their freshly baked desserts include pastries like cinnamon rolls, turnovers, scones, bear claws, and caramel pecan rolls; desserts include eclairs/puffs, French macarons, bars, pies, cookies, cakes, and bread pudding.
Located at 1016 4th St., Fulton, Krumpets Bakery is a local gem known for its high-quality ingredients and handmade treats.
The commitment to using only handmade ingredients sets Krumpets Bakery apart. Whether you’re in the mood for a pastry or a dessert, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. The French macarons and bread pudding are particularly tempting options.
Conclusion: Indulge in Northern Illinois’ Sweetest Offerings
As National Dessert Day approaches, Northern Illinois offers an incredible array of bakeries and sweet shops to explore. From the award-winning creations at Sweet Temptations in Yorkville to the old-world traditions of Milano Bakery in Joliet, each destination provides a unique and delightful experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheesecakes, French pastries, or innovative cupcake flavors, there’s something for every palate.
Exploring these local gems not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also supports the community and celebrates the artistry of baking. Each bakery brings its own flair and commitment to quality, making Northern Illinois a haven for dessert lovers. So, this National Dessert Day, take the opportunity to discover a new favorite spot or revisit an old one.
Remember to check the opening hours and locations before you head out, and consider trying signature items at each bakery. Whether it’s the cinnamon roll bread at Elleson’s Bakery or the custom cheesecakes at CheeseKake Ko., there are unique treats waiting to be discovered. Make this National Dessert Day a memorable one by indulging in the sweetest offerings of Northern Illinois.
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