Milwaukee’s Best Desserts: The Ultimate Guide to Sweet Treats

From world-famous Danish kringle in Racine to artisan gelato in Walker's Point, the greater Milwaukee area offers an extraordinary landscape of sweet destinations spanning six counties.

This comprehensive guide covers more than 85 bakeries, ice cream shops, chocolate boutiques, and specialty dessert spots—organized geographically so families can plan efficient outings. Whether you're craving a classic frozen custard cone, hand-rolled pastry, or Instagram-worthy bubble waffle, this region delivers exceptional desserts for every taste and budget.

Milwaukee's dessert scene reflects its immigrant heritage, from Italian cannoli on Brady Street to Danish kringle that earned Wisconsin's official state pastry designation. The guide includes both beloved institutions dating back generations and innovative newcomers pushing creative boundaries.

Related guide: Mochi donuts guide to Greater Milwaukee

Milwaukee

Milwaukee proper offers the region's densest concentration of dessert destinations, with distinct neighborhoods each boasting signature sweet spots worth exploring.

Brady Street and Lower East Side

Peter Sciortino Bakery remains Milwaukee's oldest Italian bakery, family-owned since 1948. Located at 1101 E. Brady Street (414-272-4623), this beloved institution opens Tuesday through Saturday 7am–4pm and Sundays 7am–1pm. Famous for cannoli, sfogliatelle, Italian cookies, and tiramisu, Sciortino's has been named "Best Bakery" by both Shepherd Express and OnMilwaukee. Budget-friendly pricing makes this perfect for families, with street parking along Brady Street.

Steps away, Glorioso's Italian Market at 1011 E. Brady Street (414-272-0540) serves authentic gelato in six rotating flavors alongside their famous Italian deli—a perfect combination stop for lunch and dessert.

Historic Third Ward and Downtown

The Milwaukee Public Market at 400 N. Water Street functions as a dessert destination hub, housing multiple sweet vendors under one roof. The Public Market parking garage eliminates the downtown parking challenge, and upstairs seating provides space for families to spread out.

C. Adam's Bakery inside the market (414-336-1111) has earned devotion for their funfetti cookie sandwiches, French macarons, and chocolate chunk cookies since 2005. This woman-owned bakery opens Monday–Saturday 10am–8pm and Sundays until 6pm, with moderate pricing around $4–8 for most items.

Freese's Candy Shoppe, also in the Public Market, carries nearly a century of Wisconsin candy-making tradition with bulk candies and nostalgic treats that delight children of all ages.

Classy Girl Cupcakes at 825 N. Jefferson Street (414-270-1877) has elevated cupcake artistry since 2009, offering approximately 25 flavors daily including gluten-free, vegan, and keto options—valuable for families managing dietary restrictions. Open Tuesday–Friday 10am–6pm, Saturday 10am–4pm.

Ben & Jerry's operates Wisconsin's only scoop shop at 203 N. Broadway (414-758-8630), bringing the Vermont ice cream institution to the Third Ward.

Walker's Point

Purple Door Ice Cream at 205 S. 2nd Street (414-988-2521) has earned national recognition from Vogue and Huffington Post for their 145+ rotating artisan flavors. Standouts include Whiskey, Beer & Pretzels, Chai with Pink Peppercorn, and The Bee's Knees (gin, lemon, honey, juniper). Their ice cream flights make perfect family sharing experiences. Open Friday–Sunday noon–8pm, weekdays 2pm–8pm. Moderate pricing.

Indulgence Chocolatiers operates their main location at 211 S. 2nd Street (414-223-0123), handcrafting truffles in adventurous flavors like coconut habañero, Parmesan crisp, and balsamic fig. Their chocolate pairing bar offers wines and craft beers for adult companions while kids enjoy the confections.

Bay View

This family-friendly neighborhood south of downtown delivers several standout destinations along Kinnickinnic Avenue.

Honeypie Cafe at 2569 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue (414-489-7437) bakes famous homemade pies including Strawberry Rhubarb, Lemon Icebox, Salted Honey, and their celebrated MKE Mud Pie. Open daily 9am–9pm with slices around $9, this cozy spot features back patio seating and vegan options. Street parking can challenge during busy hours.

Babe's Ice Cream & Desserts at 2264 S. Kinnickinnic (414-482-4000) stands out for accommodation—32+ flavors including extensive vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, and kosher options make this essential for families managing allergies.

Happy Dough Lucky + Arcade at 2691 S. Kinnickinnic (414-488-8188) combines mini donuts with arcade games, creating the ultimate kid-friendly destination. Budget-friendly pricing complements the entertainment value.

Gordo's Bubble Waffles at 2301 S. Howell Avenue (414-316-9242) serves Instagram-worthy bubble waffles topped with ice cream in flavors like Strawberry Cheesecake, Biscoff, and Blue Moon.

South Side classics

Leon's Frozen Custard at 3131 S. 27th Street (414-383-1784) represents Milwaukee frozen custard tradition since 1942, serving what they call "the World's Finest Frozen Custard." The classic 1950s drive-in atmosphere—no indoor seating—creates an authentic experience. Open daily 11am–11pm with triple-dip cones around $4.50. Famous butter pecan, plus vanilla and chocolate daily with weekend specials. On-site parking lot (busy on weekends).

Grebe's Bakery at 5132 W. Lincoln Avenue (414-543-7000) has operated as a fourth-generation family bakery since 1937, famous for Milwaukee-style crullers and cheese pocket donuts delivered to 200+ locations. Budget-friendly with donuts around $1.40. On-site parking available.

Honeydip Donuts operates multiple locations including 24-hour options, serving the Milwaukee area since 1974 with classic glazed, chocolate, and legendary apple fritters. Full menu includes burgers and ice cream. Donuts from $1.39, dozen for $15.99.

National Bakery & Deli at 3200 S. 16th Street (plus Brookfield and Greendale locations) serves as Milwaukee's premier Polish bakery, famous for paczki (Polish donuts), cheese pockets, butter twists, and Persian pastries at budget prices.

Wauwatosa

Le Rêve Patisserie & Café at 7610 Harwood Avenue (414-778-3333) brings authentic French bistro pastry to the suburbs. Their classically trained pastry chefs create Opera Torte, chocolate croissants, and seasonal masterpieces. The chef recently became Chocolate Coach for Team USA. Upscale pricing ($$$) with a simple kids menu. Open Monday and Wednesday–Saturday with lunch and dinner service.

Cranky Al's in East Tosa has won multiple awards since 2006 for crullers, Hoytie Toyties, and sprinkly dinklies, plus gluten-friendly and vegan options.

Simma's Bakery earned 2017 Bakery Operation of the Year from the Wisconsin Bakers Association and holds legendary status for cheesecake. Family-owned 38+ years, specializing in wedding cakes, pastries, and hot cocoa bombs.

West Allis

Aggie's Bakery and Cake Shop at 7328 W. Greenfield Avenue (414-482-1288) has crafted Milwaukee's best cakes since 1977 using their original buttercream recipe. Custom wedding cakes and cupcakes (mini from $1.25, large $2.50) with delivery throughout Milwaukee and Waukesha counties.

Additional Milwaukee destinations

Burke Candy & Ingredients at 3840 N. Fratney Street (414-964-7327) represents third-generation candy-making excellence, famous for sea salt caramels using grandmother's original recipe, plus butter toffee and truffles. Kosher options available.

Cold Spoons Gelato at 5924 W. Vliet Street (414-727-9457) makes gelato on-site with 24 ever-changing flavors including cappuccino, tiramisu, and amaretto—conveniently located near Miller Park and the Milwaukee County Zoo.

Kehr's Candies on Lisbon Avenue has hand-crafted gourmet chocolates since 1930.

North Shore

The affluent North Shore suburbs offer artisan quality and refined atmospheres alongside family-friendly classics.

Whitefish Bay

Burke Candy at 513 E. Silver Spring Drive (414-312-8718) operates their retail location offering four generations of gourmet candy-making since 1929. The signature sea salt caramels draw devoted customers, alongside English toffee made from a 100-year-old family recipe. Open Tuesday–Friday 10am–5pm, Saturday 10am–4pm. Candy classes available for families.

Fitzy's Café at Fitzgerald Pharmacy (424 E. Silver Spring Drive) recreates nostalgic soda fountain charm, serving Purple Door Ice Cream with Burke's Candy toppings, classic root beer floats, and Bananas Foster Croissants. Open daily 7am–8pm, this pharmacy-café combination offers moderate pricing and unique family atmosphere.

Breadsmith at 327 E. Silver Spring Drive bakes artisan breads and fresh cookies daily with a loyalty program offering free loaves.

Shorewood

North Shore Boulangerie at 4401 N. Oakland Avenue brings authentic French baking with naturally leavened breakfast pastries, pain au chocolat, croissants, and The Bomb mousse desserts. They supply Sendik's markets and area restaurants. Coffee and pastry service runs 7am–6pm daily, with lunch service 11am–2:30pm. Moderate pricing.

Blooming Lotus Bakery at 3948 N. Maryland Avenue (414-800-5030) operates a dedicated grain-free, dairy-free, processed sugar-free, egg-free facility—invaluable for families managing celiac disease or multiple allergies. They offer breads, muffins, cakes, and cookies made with nut and seed flours at moderate-to-upscale pricing.

Indulgence Chocolatiers maintains a boutique location at 4525 N. Oakland Avenue (414-332-2749), also featuring a Purple Door Ice Cream scoop shop.

The City Market Café & Bakehouse at 2205 E. Capitol Drive (414-962-0100) serves homemade soups and fresh baked goods including cranberry nut scones and chocolate fudge brownies. Open 7am–7pm daily with bike trail accessibility, outdoor seating, and ADA-friendly facilities.

Glendale

Kopp's Frozen Custard at 5373 N. Port Washington Road (414-961-3288) operates one of their legendary locations here, serving the "Flavor of the Day" concept they invented. Open daily 10:30am–10pm with jumbo hamburgers complementing their frozen custard. Located on the former site of Milky Way drive-in, which inspired Arnold's Drive-In on "Happy Days." Budget-friendly with large parking lot. Cash only for some transactions.

Crumbl Cookies at 5600 N. Bayshore Drive in Bayshore Town Center (414-600-9289) offers their famous rotating weekly menu of gourmet cookies from 120+ recipes. Open Monday–Thursday 8am–10pm, Friday–Saturday until midnight, closed Sundays. The famous pink box makes memorable gifts.

Fox Point

Nothing Bundt Cakes at 383 W. Brown Deer Road, Suite A (414-877-0828) handcrafts Bundt cakes with signature cream cheese frosting in flavors including Red Velvet, Lemon, and White Chocolate Raspberry. Multiple sizes from bite-sized Bundtinis to tiered wedding cakes. Open Monday–Friday 9am–7pm, Saturday 10am–6pm, Sunday 11am–4pm.

Mequon

La Campagne Bakery at 10050 N. Port Washington Road (262-241-6305) bakes all-natural, preservative-free goods using local Wisconsin ingredients. Specialties include dried blueberry studded breads, chocolate chip muffins, and cinnamon rolls. Budget-friendly with parking available.

Cocoa Tree Confectionery at 1330 W. Mequon Road (262-643-4692) creates handmade artisan chocolates, hand-painted bon bons, and house-made gelato and sorbet (May–October). They offer birthday parties and chocolate classes for kids. Limited hours—verify before visiting.

Purple Door Ice Cream maintains a location inside Mequon Public Market at 6300 W. Mequon Road (262-643-4073), offering their artisan small-batch ice cream in a family-friendly market setting.

Ozaukee County

Historic Cedarburg ranks among Wisconsin's premier destination towns, with Washington Avenue offering a concentrated corridor of chocolate shops, bakeries, and ice cream parlors within easy walking distance.

Cedarburg

Amy's Candy Kitchen at W62N579 Washington Avenue (262-376-0884) earned "Best Overall" caramel apples from the Wall Street Journal and multiple Wisconsin State Fair Blue Ribbons. Visitors watch chocolatiers work in their 19th-century open-concept kitchen while shopping Belgian couverture chocolates, handmade fudge, truffles, and almond bark. Open Monday–Saturday 9am–8pm, Sunday 10am–7pm. Parking behind building via Center Street to Hanover Avenue.

Ashley's Confectionery at W63N650 Washington Avenue (262-375-8665) has served handmade chocolates and fudge as a community staple for over 20 years. Daily 11am–5pm winter hours, with chocolate boxes $9.99–$26.99. Budget-to-moderate pricing.

The Chocolate Factory at W62N577 Washington Avenue (262-377-8877) combines homemade premium ice cream with their famous subs since 1972. Try unique flavors like "Zoreo" (Zanzibar chocolate with marshmallow, Oreos, chocolate chunks). Classic family atmosphere with booth seating, budget-friendly pricing.

Boulangerie Du Monde at W62N588 Washington Avenue (262-375-1050) delivers French bakery quality visitors compare to Paris—croissants, pain au chocolat, morning buns, and brioche rolls. Open Tuesday–Saturday 7am–2pm. The spinach and feta croissants (Fridays only) sell out quickly.

Delicately Delicious at W62N608 Washington Avenue (262-377-7268) specializes in award-winning wedding cakes and custom cupcakes (try salted caramel and raspberry). Limited hours: Thursday–Friday 10am–5pm, Saturday 10am–3pm.

Downtown Dough at W63N658 Washington Avenue (262-421-8466) offers specialty cookies and baked goods in the heart of the historic district.

Port Washington

The Chocolate Chisel at 125 W. Grand Avenue (262-261-0200) handcrafts artisan chocolates—truffles, sea salt caramels, turtles, chocolate-dipped pretzels—while also serving Amazing Ice Cream Company ice cream made on-site with homemade waffle cones. TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice winner. Open daily 11am–8pm (winter), extending to 10pm summer. Moderate-to-upscale pricing.

Frankie's Ice Cream at 313 N. Franklin Street operates seasonally (Memorial Day–Labor Day) from an iconic 1969 Airstream Safari trailer, serving Cedar Crest Ice Cream in 11 flavors plus fresh mini donuts. Budget-friendly with picnic tables and Adirondack chairs—quintessential summer family experience.

Smusht creates hand-crafted ice cream sandwiches using freshly baked cookies with creative rotating flavors like Peanut Butter & Jelly Ring and Spicy Aztec Chocolate. Vegan and gluten-free options available.

Toucan Food & Custard at 620 W. Grand Avenue serves frozen custard with daily rotating flavors plus Mediterranean-inspired food (gyros, shawarma, falafel). Dog-friendly patio, walk-up window, budget pricing.

Washington County: Small-town charm with serious sweets

West Bend

Candyman on Main at 121 N. Main Street (262-306-8052) occupies a nostalgic niche with homemade bear claws, angel food popcorn, quality chocolates, and a massive selection of old-fashioned candies including candy cigarettes, Pop Rocks, and Swedish Fish. In summer and spring, they add Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream. Open Monday–Thursday 10am–6pm, Friday until 8pm, Saturday 10am–6pm, Sunday noon–4pm. Very kid-friendly with rewards program.

Cafe Floriana serves fresh-baked goods and coffee downtown.

Note: Hankerson's Country Oven Bakery (beloved 50+ year institution) has closed. The location will become "Creative Brews" (coffee, bakery, gifts) targeting Fall 2025.

Hartford

Scoop DeVille at 65 N. Main Street (262-673-1957) recreates a 1950s ice cream parlor and soda fountain with remarkable authenticity—jukebox playing oldies, homemade ice cream in flavors like Cherry Brownie, Maple Bacon, and Gingerbread with cookies from their in-house bakery. Hand-mixed sodas, shakes, malts, and nostalgic candies complete the experience. Budget-friendly (single scoop $2.61, banana split $8.61). TripAdvisor ranks it #1 restaurant in Hartford. Open Tuesday–Sunday 11am–8pm.

Waukesha County

City of Waukesha

Allô! Chocolat at 234 W. Main Street, Suite 1 (262-544-8030) brings handcrafted artisan truffles, a nostalgic candy wall, seasonal treats (Hot Cocoa Bombs, chocolate-dipped strawberries), and Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream to downtown Waukesha. Locally owned since 2017, they offer chocolate classes for adults and children—perfect family activity. Open Monday–Friday 10am–6pm, Saturday 9am–5pm.

Sweet Perfections Bake Shoppe at 1501 Paramount Drive (262-446-2253) specializes in traditional wedding cakes alongside custom occasion cakes and holiday pies. Tea room setting suitable for special occasions. Open Tuesday–Friday 7am–4pm, Saturday 8am–2pm.

Donut Squad at 308 W. Broadway (414-628-0833) creates inventive specialty donuts topped with Kit Kats, Fruity Pebbles, Maple Bacon, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Warning: Weekend-only hours (Friday–Sunday 6am–1pm) and they sell out quickly—arrive early! Classic donuts start at $1.89. Wheelchair accessible.

Brookfield

Kopp's Frozen Custard at 18880 W. Bluemound Road (262-789-9490) operates their flagship suburban location, featured on Food Network. Daily rotating "Flavor of the Day" options include Turtle, Mint Chocolate Chunk, and Spumoni. Famous jumbo burgers complement the custard. Open Sunday–Thursday 10:30am–10pm, Friday–Saturday until 11pm. Large parking lot, moderate pricing.

Scratch Ice Cream at 2205 N. Calhoun Road, Suite 6 (262-838-1802) handcrafts small-batch ice cream using Wisconsin dairy with 20+ flavors in a dye-free base. Popular choices include Biscoff, Toasted Almond Crunch, and Banilla Caramel. Vegan options available. Open daily 11:30am–9pm. Pints available at grocery stores.

Lee's Dairy Treat serves 95% fat-free soft serve from an octagon-shaped building with iconic neon signs and 1970s retro hand-drawn menus since 1971. Their MONSTER malts and 40+ topping options create memorable sundaes. Seasonal operation (March–October), with picnic tables and outdoor patio.

Elm Grove

Great Harvest Bread Co. at 13404 Watertown Plank Road (262-821-0118) celebrated 30 years in 2024, offering fresh-baked breads (Honey Whole Wheat, Cinnamon Chip, Apple Pie Cinnamon Crunch), plus cinnamon rolls, scones, brownies, and cookies. Free bread samples. Open Monday–Friday 7am–6pm, Saturday 7am–4pm. Recently acquired RJ's Ice Cream next door, expanding dessert offerings.

Delafield

Crumbl Cookies at 2926 Golf Road (262-256-0250) serves their famous gourmet cookies from a weekly rotating menu. Open kitchen concept lets kids watch cookie-making. Open Monday–Thursday 8am–10pm, Friday–Saturday until midnight. Designated "Neighborhood Favorite" in 9 local communities.

Mullen's Dairy Bar at 637 Main Street (262-646-2555) scoops creamy, handcrafted small-batch homemade super-premium ice cream. Also located in Oconomowoc and Watertown.

Mukwonago

The Elegant Farmer at 1545 Main Street (262-363-6770) produces what Food Network called "the best apple pie in America"—their signature Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag® contains 1.5 pounds of Ida Red apples with sugar cookie-like crust. Wall Street Journal, Milwaukee Magazine, and Gourmet have featured this fourth-generation family farm. Beyond pies ($24.99 for 9-inch, available by slice), they offer jumbo cookies, fruit muffins, and fresh fruit breads. Open daily 9am–6pm with large parking lot.

Exceptional family features include Smilin' Barn, hayrides, apple picking, train rides, corn mazes, and the Autumn Harvest Festival. Note: restrooms are outhouses only.

Pewaukee

Molly's Gluten-Free Bakery at N47 W28270 Lynndale Road (262-563-1024) operates a 100% dedicated gluten-free AND nut-free facility—essential for families managing celiac disease or severe allergies. Products include breads, bagels (everything bagels highly praised), pizza crusts, cakes, cupcakes, cookies, brownies, pies, and even Kringle. Many items available dairy-free and egg-free. Named "Neighborhood Favorite" 2018, 2019, and 2023. Open Wednesday–Friday 10am–5:30pm, Saturday 10am–2pm. Curbside pickup available.

Menomonee Falls

Batter and Mac at N89W16750 Appleton Avenue (262-289-8003) specializes in French macarons, custom cakes, decorated cookies, croissants, and donuts. Hot Ham and Rolls on Sundays. Health score 99/100. Family-owned with "kindness coupons" for community giving. Open Wednesday–Friday 8am–4pm, Saturday–Sunday 8am–2pm. Dogs allowed, validated parking.

Great Harvest Bread Co. at N71W13082 Appleton Avenue, Unit 200 (262-349-1394) offers their signature fresh-milled wheat breads plus goodies including Berry Cream Cheese Scones, Dillon Cookies, and Savannah Bars.

Oconomowoc

Whelan's Coffee & Ice Cream downtown combines quality ice cream with excellent coffee in a welcoming atmosphere.

A Little Slice of Heaven creates custom wedding cakes and decorated sugar cookies for all occasions.

Genesee Depot

Sally's Sweet Shoppe at S42 W31238 Hwy 83 operates a custom scratch bakery specializing in unique wedding cakes (including banana cake), custom occasion cakes, and cookies. Family-owned since 2010, located at railroad tracks in tiny downtown Genesee Depot.

Racine County: America's Kringle Capital

Racine holds international recognition as the "Kringle Capital" due to Danish immigration in the late 1800s. The Danish kringle became Wisconsin's Official State Pastry in 2013, and these oval-shaped, 36-layer pastries rank among America's finest baked goods.

Racine's legendary kringle bakeries

O&H Danish Bakery operates the region's largest kringle production, creating 5,000–7,000 kringles daily and shipping 20,000+ during holidays. Their flagship location at 5910 Washington Avenue (800-709-4009) opens Monday–Friday 6am–6pm, Saturday 6am–5pm, Sunday 7am–2pm. Additional locations on Durand Avenue, Douglas Avenue, in Sturtevant, and Oak Creek.

The 36-layer kringle requires a 3-day production process—signature flavors include Pecan, Raspberry, Almond, Apple, Cherry, Turtle, and seasonals. Fourth-generation Olesen family ownership since 1949. Kringles run $26.99–$29.99 with gift packages available. Warm "hygge" atmosphere includes soup and sandwich lunch menu. Free lot parking, very family-friendly.

Bendtsen's Bakery at 3200 Washington Avenue (262-633-0365) represents the only bakery still making kringle 100% by hand—no machinery touches their 32-layer pastry. Food & Wine named them one of "America's 100 Best Bakeries," and they've appeared on Food Network. Fourth-generation family operation since 1934 offers approximately 30 flavors. Customers can watch bakers hand-roll dough from the front counter. Premium pricing reflects the handmade process.

Lehmann's Bakery operates retail at 2914 Taylor Avenue (262-898-7810) with factory tours available at 4900 Spring Street ($3/person). Billing themselves as "Home of the Original Danish Kringle," they create 48-layer pastries in 36+ flavors including gourmet specialties like Bourbon Pecan, Amaretto Almond, and Lemon Cheesecake. Their kringles wholesale to Sam's Club nationally. Family tours to watch kringle-making prove popular.

Note: Larsen's Bakery, which claimed "Racine's Original Kringle," apparently closed after 60+ years, though online shipping may remain available.

Racine frozen custard and more

Caesar's Frozen Custard & Jumbo Burgers at 2721 Douglas Avenue (262-456-0503) serves fresh Wisconsin custard with jumbo burgers in classic drive-in style. Open daily 11am–9pm, budget-friendly, family-oriented.

Georgie Porgie's Family Restaurant at 5502 Washington Avenue, Mount Pleasant (262-635-5030) features a tree fort theme with fresh frozen custard, daily flavor forecasts, and monthly featured flavors. Full family restaurant menu. Budget-to-moderate pricing.

Dogs & Cream combines 11 gourmet hot dog varieties with custard cones, sundaes, and shakes—fun casual atmosphere.

Adrian's Frozen Custard in Burlington operates seasonally as a family-owned classic stand since 1974.

Kenosha County: Italian heritage meets Wisconsin tradition

Kenosha

Paielli's Bakery at 6020 39th Avenue (262-654-0785) has served Kenosha since 1923, approaching fourth-generation family ownership. Named "Wisconsin's Best Doughnut Shop," they produce over 10,000 loaves of Italian bread weekly alongside their signature "Cyclops" donut—chocolate-glazed with buttercream center. Also famous for cream puffs, kringles, cannoli, Genetti, and specialty cakes (try the Snickers Candy Bar Cake). Budget pricing (donuts around $1.25). Open Monday–Friday 6am–6pm, Saturday 7am–4pm, Sunday 7am–2pm. 20,000 square foot facility serving Wisconsin and Illinois. Wheelchair accessible with ample parking.

Oliver's Bakery at 3526 Roosevelt Road (262-652-3984) has been Kenosha's hometown bakery for 70+ years, known for kringles considered among the best in southeastern Wisconsin, custom decorated cakes, and especially their Napoleons—customers drive from Illinois specifically for these pastries. Their Friday Fish Fry maintains local tradition. Staff famously gives extras to first-time visitors. Open Monday–Friday from 5:30am (closing varies), Saturday until 3pm.

Scoops Ice Cream & Candy at 5711 8th Avenue #4002 (262-657-9866) earned Kenosha County's #1 Ice Cream Parlor designation, serving 36–40+ flavors of super-premium Chocolate Shoppe ice cream. Vegan, no-sugar-added, gluten-free, and nut-free options available. Unique features include doggy frozen yogurt (pumpkin or banana), homemade fudge, brownie bowls (warm brownie with ice cream), and homemade hand-dipped waffle cones. Try the "Exhausted Parent" flavor. Open Sunday–Thursday noon–8pm, Friday–Saturday until 9pm. Dogs welcome at outdoor seating.

Sandy's Popper at 5503 6th Avenue (262-605-3202) serves 75+ gourmet popcorn flavors alongside Cedar Crest Ice Cream. Try their ice cream sampler dish (6 flavors!) and cheese-caramel corn. Downtown location with sidewalk seating.

Shirl's Custard at 7943 Sheridan Road has served family-owned, small-batch specialty custard for 50+ years, maintaining classic drive-in experience with fresh ingredients. Also serves burgers, hot dogs, funnel cakes. Budget pricing.

Sweet Corner Ice Cream rotates through 100+ flavors with 36+ available daily.

Planning your family dessert adventures

Best destinations by dessert type

Category Top Picks Frozen Custard Leon's (Milwaukee), Kopp's (3 locations), Caesar's (Racine), Shirl's (Kenosha) Kringle O&H Danish, Bendtsen's, Lehmann's (all Racine), Oliver's (Kenosha) Artisan Chocolate Amy's Candy Kitchen (Cedarburg), Burke Candy (Milwaukee/Whitefish Bay), The Chocolate Chisel (Port Washington), Indulgence Chocolatiers (Milwaukee) French Pastry Le Rêve (Wauwatosa), North Shore Boulangerie (Shorewood), Boulangerie Du Monde (Cedarburg) Ice Cream Purple Door (multiple), Scratch (Brookfield), Scoops (Kenosha), The Chocolate Factory (Cedarburg) Pies Honeypie Cafe (Bay View), The Elegant Farmer (Mukwonago) Donuts Grebe's (Milwaukee), Paielli's (Kenosha), Donut Squad (Waukesha), Cranky Al's (Tosa) Macarons C. Adam's Bakery (Third Ward), Batter and Mac (Menomonee Falls)

Best for dietary restrictions

Families managing allergies and dietary needs will find exceptional options:

• Gluten-free: Molly's Gluten-Free Bakery (Pewaukee)—100% dedicated facility

• Vegan/dairy-free: Babe's Ice Cream (Bay View), Blooming Lotus Bakery (Shorewood), Scoops (Kenosha)

• Multiple allergies: Blooming Lotus (grain-free, dairy-free, egg-free facility)

• Keto options: Classy Girl Cupcakes (Downtown Milwaukee)

Best family activities beyond dessert

Several destinations offer experiences beyond eating:

• The Elegant Farmer (Mukwonago): Hayrides, apple picking, corn mazes, train rides

• Happy Dough Lucky (Bay View): Arcade games plus donuts

• Allô! Chocolat (Waukesha): Chocolate classes for kids and adults

• Cocoa Tree (Mequon): Birthday parties and chocolate classes

• Amy's Candy Kitchen (Cedarburg): Watch chocolatiers work in open-concept kitchen

• Lehmann's Bakery (Racine): Factory tours ($3/person)

Budget-friendly picks ($ under $5/person)

Leon's Frozen Custard, Kopp's Frozen Custard, Grebe's Bakery, Honeydip Donuts, National Bakery, Paielli's Bakery, Scoop DeVille (Hartford), Frankie's Ice Cream, The Chocolate Factory (Cedarburg).

Special occasion splurges ($$$)

Le Rêve Patisserie (Wauwatosa), Indulgence Chocolatiers (Milwaukee/Shorewood), Amy's Candy Kitchen (Cedarburg), The Chocolate Chisel (Port Washington).

Seasonal considerations and planning tips

Spring/Summer highlights: Frankie's Ice Cream (Port Washington), Lee's Dairy Treat (Brookfield), and many custard stands operate seasonally March–October. The Elegant Farmer offers apple picking and outdoor activities.

Fall favorites: The Elegant Farmer's apple pies peak during harvest; Cedarburg's downtown hosts Wine & Harvest Festival; kringle bakeries prepare holiday specialties.

Winter/Holiday planning: Racine kringle production peaks November–December with extended lines at all bakeries. Order early or arrive off-peak. Hot cocoa bombs appear at Simma's and other bakeries.

Parking strategy: Milwaukee Public Market garage simplifies Third Ward visits. Cedarburg offers walkable downtown. Kopp's and Leon's have large lots. Meter street parking throughout Milwaukee neighborhoods.

Kringle tips: Kringles freeze well for months, ship nationwide from all Racine bakeries, and taste best slightly warmed with coffee. Consider Real Racine's "Kringle Trail" bus tours for comprehensive tastings.

This guide represents the region's extraordinary dessert culture—immigrant bakery traditions, dairy state custard excellence, artisan chocolate craftsmanship, and innovative newcomers pushing creative boundaries. Whether planning a spontaneous afternoon treat or a dedicated dessert day trip, greater Milwaukee delivers sweet experiences worth the journey.