The Best Chicago Summertime Sweet Treats
Molly’s Cupcakes
We could all use a treat in our lives now and then. When times are tough, or you’re feeling stressed, or just had a long day, nothing can make life seem a little sweeter like a little bit of dessert. You don’t have to go overboard (but you can if you want!) with Chicago’s best sweets. They come in all shapes and sizes so you can easily satisfy your sugar craving no matter the time of day. Because it shouldn’t be tough to get your summertime sweets! These are the ones you should take a bite of NOW, before they’re all gone…
Molly's Cupcakes {multiple locations}: The only thing better than a cupcake is a center-filled cupcake, and Molly’s has all kinds! The Cookie Monster (vanilla chocolate chip cake and raw cookie dough center with buttercream frosting and mini chocolate chip cookie) is a favorite all year long but the Raspberry and Cream is perfect for summertime (vanilla cake with raspberries baked in plus white chocolate mousse and raspberry buttercream). We recommend enjoying a few as part of a picnic!
Yolk {multiple locations}: Sweet treats don’t have to just be for dessert! They can come in the form of Cinnamon Roll French Toast or Nutty Monkey Cakes or even a Toffee Nutella Latte too. Yolk is constantly switching up their menus so your sweet tooth will always be satisfied.
Bombobar
Bombobar {multiple locations}: If you’re looking for the perfect summer treat, look no further than the Bombobar Italian Ice Slushies! They’re available in lemon and strawberry, or you can go for an alcoholic slushie and choose their Frozé instead. And don’t worry, they will always have your favorite Bomboloni's on hand as well.
The Goddess and Grocer {multiple locations}: Aside from their famous Rainbow Cake, The Goddess and Grocer also has Cheesecake, Cake Pops, Giant Cookies, and so much more! Given that they have locations across the city, those treats are usually pretty close at hand too. It’s like a sweet-lover’s dream come true!
Firecakes {multiple locations}: August is peach season, and Firecakes is taking full advantage of that with their Peach Jelly Donut, Peach Fritter and Peach Cobbler Donut! Getting one (or a dozen!) is a great way to celebrate the season, and the local produce, all while supporting this amazing local shop.
Imperial Lamian
Imperial Lamian {6 West Hubbard Street, Chicago; 312.595.9440}: Want to upgrade your Instagram game? Get a video of the Lunar Blossom from Imperial Lamian! You will see the “likes” coming pouring in! This Pandang cake comes served in a white chocolate dome, and then a dark chocolate ganache is drizzled over the top, melting the dome to reveal the delicious treat within. It’s a wonder to behold…and to eat!
Vanille Patisserie {multiple locations}: You can still support local bakeries like Vanille even if you’d prefer to cook at home this summer. Their Take & Bake menu has options like Frozen Custard Sandwiches and Funfetti Cookies that you can bring back to your own kitchen. Even if you go this route, we also recommend grabbing a few of their famous macarons to-go as well. You won’t regret a single bite!
By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor