“Because Salad Season Can Wait”
January is supposed to be about resolutions, discipline, and kale smoothies. But let’s be real: it’s cold, it’s raining, and you deserve dessert. Comfort dessert. The kind that makes you close your eyes on the first bite and whisper “worth it.”
Sacramento has an incredible dessert scene — from iconic bakeries to hole-in-the-wall donut shops and restaurants that treat their sweet menu like a main event. Whether you want pie with a flaky crust, churros dipped in chocolate, or a lava cake that oozes like a rom-com moment, this city delivers.
Here’s your ultimate guide to comfort desserts in Sacramento — where to go, what to order, and why it’s worth breaking your resolutions.
Bakeries That Feel Like Home
Freeport Bakery (Land Park)
An absolute institution. Sacramento locals have been obsessed for decades. From seasonal pies to cheesecakes, everything here screams comfort.
Must-try: The fruit basket cake (legendary), pecan pie, or anything with cream cheese frosting.
Ettore’s European Bakery (Arden-Arcade)
This place feels like a hug disguised as a café. Pastries, pies, cakes — all top-notch. In winter, their cheesecakes and German chocolate cake are pure joy.
Must-try: Raspberry white chocolate cake or a slice of their classic Black Forest.
Pushkin’s Bakery (Downtown + East Sac)
Proof that gluten-free doesn’t mean flavor-free. Their cinnamon rolls and brownies are as indulgent as anything with wheat.
Must-try: Their legendary GF cinnamon roll.
Ice Cream, Even in Winter
Because sometimes comfort = pretending it’s July while wearing three layers.
Gunther’s Ice Cream
A Sacramento staple since 1940. Creamy, old-school, and worth braving the cold for.
Must-try: Their 50/50 fruit freezes.
Vic’s Ice Cream (Land Park)
Retro vibes, friendly service, and ice cream sundaes the size of your head.
Must-try: Banana split or hot fudge sundae.
Donuts & Fried Bliss
Donut King
Open 24/7. The kind of place you end up after a night out or during a 2 a.m. craving.
Must-try: Cronuts or maple bars the size of your face.
Sweet Dozen Donuts (North Sac)
Beloved for mochi donuts that are chewy, light, and ridiculously addictive.
Must-try: Matcha mochi donut.
BJ Cinnamon & Donuts (Folsom)
Not technically Sac, but worth the short drive. Fluffy, sugary perfection.
Must-try: Apple fritter — people drive across town for it.
Restaurant Desserts That Deserve Their Own Trip
Ella Dining Room & Bar
Elegant, but their dessert program is no afterthought. Expect seasonal, chef-driven sweets that make you rethink skipping dessert.
Must-try: Butterscotch pot de crème.
The Waterboy (Midtown)
Known for pasta, but don’t sleep on their desserts. Upscale takes on classics, and everything feels special.
Must-try: Seasonal fruit tarts or crème brûlée.
Magpie Café (Midtown)
Casual, local ingredients, and desserts that taste like your cool foodie friend baked them.
Must-try: Bread pudding with whiskey caramel sauce.
Unexpected Dessert Heroes
Churros at Mayahuel
Downtown Mexican spot with churros that could ruin you for life. Crisp outside, soft inside, dusted in cinnamon sugar.
Must-try: Churros with chocolate dipping sauce.
Hot Chocolate at Ginger Elizabeth
Not just dessert — an experience. Thick, rich hot chocolate that’s practically drinkable fudge.
Must-try: Spicy dark hot chocolate.
Waffles at The Waffle Experience
Yes, it’s technically breakfast, but one bite of their dessert-style waffles and you’ll stop pretending.
Must-try: Anything with Nutella or whipped cream piled high.
Relatable Dessert Truths
- “I’ll just have one bite” = bold-faced lie.
- Pie is acceptable breakfast. Don’t argue.
- A cinnamon roll is just emotional support in pastry form.
- Lava cake never looks pretty, but always tastes like heaven.
- Calories don’t count if it’s raining. (That’s science.)
FAQs – Sacramento Desserts
What’s the best bakery for classic comfort desserts?
Freeport Bakery — pies, cakes, and nostalgia all in one.
Where do I find gluten-free desserts in Sacramento?
Pushkin’s Bakery is your go-to.
What’s the best late-night dessert spot?
Donut King in Natomas — open 24/7.
Where can I get the best hot chocolate?
Ginger Elizabeth. Rich, indulgent, and worth every sip.
What’s the most Instagram-worthy dessert in Sacramento?
Sweet Dozen’s mochi donuts or Devine Gelateria’s affogatos.
Final Thoughts
Winter in Sacramento doesn’t have to be dreary. When the weather’s gray and your mood matches, dessert is the cure. From old-school bakeries to fancy restaurant sweets and 24/7 donut runs, this city has endless ways to sugar-coat your January.
So go ahead — break your resolution. Order the lava cake, grab the cinnamon roll, eat pie for breakfast. Because in Sacramento, dessert isn’t just food. It’s therapy.
Related Resources:
The Best Winter Comfort Foods: Best Soups, Ramen & Cozy Eats
