Where are the best places to enjoy a sweet treat? Vote now
Whether you want candy, donuts, ice cream, chocolate, pie, cookies, or other desserts, you can find a shop in the U.S. that specializes in satisfying your cravings. From coast to coast, there are shops that make donuts with fresh ingredients and unique flavors, and there are ice cream parlors that serve creatively flavored scoops of homemade ice cream.
If you’re a chocolate lover, you can indulge in handcrafted truffles, bars, and bonbons from chocolatiers, and for those who enjoy candy, there are stores that sell everything from fudge and caramel apples to taffy and nostalgic candy. And for something quick and convenient, you can visit dessert chains that offer consistently good creations like cupcakes, ice cream, donuts, and more.
A panel of experts have made their selections for the best places to go for desserts and treats across seven categories. Now, it’s your turn to vote and crown the ultimate winners. Voting ends on Monday, June 10 at noon ET, and you can vote once per day, per category.
Click on each category below to vote:
Best Candy Store
Candy stores often offer homemade confections as well as the nostalgic candy of your childhood — Photo courtesy of arinahabich / iStock / Getty Images Plus
If you have a sweet tooth to satisfy, you should check out these 20 independent candy stores across the United States. Nominated by a panel of experts, these candy shops stand out because they offer a variety of delicious treats that you won’t always find in big chains or supermarkets. They also offer the opportunities to discover new flavors, support local businesses, and enjoy a fun and nostalgic experience.
Which candy store gets your vote?
Best Chocolate Shop
Which chocolate shop will you choose as the best in the country? — Photo courtesy of Ivan Bajic / iStock / Getty Images Plus
Independent chocolate shops across the country offer a variety of delicious and distinctive chocolates that are made with premium ingredients and infused with unique flavors. Whether you’re looking for creative bars, glossy truffles, chocolate-covered fruits, or whimsical bonbons, you can find them at these 20 stores, nominated by a panel of experts.
Which chocolate shop is your favorite?
Best Cookie Shop
Which cookie shop do you return to? — Photo courtesy of coldsnowstorm / iStock / Getty Images Plus
Visitors to these 20 independent cookie shops in the U.S. enjoy yummy treats that come in a range of flavors and varieties, crafted with top-notch ingredients and the utmost love and care. From small businesses to family-owned endeavors, these shops have been nominated by a panel of experts for their outstanding confections that keep customers returning over and over again.
Which shop makes your favorite cookies?
Best Dessert / Treat Chain
Which dessert/treat chain is your favorite? — Photo courtesy of artisteer / iStock / Getty Images Plus
When it comes to enjoying a yummy treat, national chains across the country are quite appealing. These 20 stores and restaurants have been nominated by a panel of experts because they offer convenience, consistency, and a variety of options. Whether it’s a tasty cupcake, a scoop of ice cream, or a warm cookie, customers consistently return to these spots to indulge in their favorite sweets.
Which dessert/treat chain do you think is the best?
Vote: Best Dessert / Treat Chain »
Best Donut Shop
Which donut shop makes your favorite varieties? — Photo courtesy of Photography By Tonelson / iStock / Getty Images Plus
These 20 donut shops across the U.S. offer a unique charm and personal touch that large chains often can’t match. Nominated by an expert panel, these spots serve up an array of flavors that cater to every palate — from classic glazed favorites to avant-garde gourmet varieties — and every bite feels like a special treat.
Which donut shop is your favorite?
Best Ice Cream Shop
Which ice cream shop do you visit when you want a frozen sweet treat? — Photo courtesy of kerdkanno / iStock / Getty Images Plus
Paying a visit to these 20 independent ice cream shops across the country is a wonderful way to try new flavors and enjoy your old favorites — and cool off on a hot day! Nominated by a panel of experts, these spots were chosen for their use of quality, fresh ingredients (sometimes sourced right from their own farms), and creative takes on this beloved frozen treat.
Which ice cream shop gets your vote?
Best Pie Shop
Which pie shop do you most love to visit for a slice (or maybe a whole pie)? — Photo courtesy of azgek / iStock / Getty Images Plus
Venturing into the heart of American culinary tradition, pie shops across the country offer a slice of local culture and history with every piece of pie served. And these 20 pie shops, nominated by an expert panel, are no exception, featuring storied sweet (and savory) treats that have customers returning again and again.
Which pie shop is your favorite?
Remember, you can vote once per day in each category. The 10 nominees with the most votes in each category will be announced on Wednesday, June 19.
