Boulder’s Sweetest Seven: Must-Try Dessert Spots for Every Craving
There’s something magical about desserts in Boulder. Maybe it’s the mountain air, the creative culinary scene, or the fact that after a hike or bike ride, locals feel just fine rewarding themselves with a decadent treat. From velvety truffles to fresh-baked cookies and creamy gelato, these seven dessert spots in Boulder, Colorado, are the best of the best—delighting foodies, students, and tourists alike.
1. Piece, Love & Chocolate
805 Pearl St
Step into a chocolate dream world. This whimsical boutique on Pearl Street is filled wall-to-wall with handcrafted chocolate creations. Their signature Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt Cake is as indulgent as it sounds, and the sipping chocolate—thick, rich, and served with flair—makes cold Boulder nights feel downright luxurious. It’s more than dessert—it’s a chocolate experience.
2. Boulder Baked
1911 Broadway
Known for its warm, made-to-order cookies delivered straight to your door, Boulder Baked hits the comfort food sweet spot. Their chocolate chip cookie a la mode is a top-seller, and their rotating cupcake flavors—from carrot cake to red velvet—offer something new with every visit. Open late, it’s a go-to for CU students craving sweets after study sessions.
3. Gelato Boy
1433 Pearl St
Artisan gelato made right in Boulder? Yes, please. Gelato Boy uses local milk and premium ingredients to create smooth, dense flavors like Stracciatella, Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter, and Lavender Honey. With vegan options that taste just as indulgent, it’s no surprise this spot has become a local legend. The vibe? Chic, bright, and totally scoop-worthy.
4. Sweet Cow Ice Cream
2628 Broadway
A Boulder classic, Sweet Cow churns small-batch ice cream that’s thick, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Their Ozo Coffeeflavor is a nod to local caffeine lovers, while Vegan Cookies & Cream proves dairy-free doesn’t mean less delicious. Don’t miss their made-fresh waffle cones or the MooMobile ice cream truck that hits the streets in summer.
5. Spruce Confections
767 Pearl St
Spruce is where Boulder’s coffee lovers and pastry aficionados come together. This beloved bakery offers almond croissants, cinnamon scones, and a flourless chocolate torte that is rich, dense, and unforgettable. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a treat and linger on the patio, watching the world go by on Pearl Street.
6. Lucky’s Bakehouse & Creamery
3990 Broadway
Tucked into North Boulder’s Lucky’s Market, this bakehouse and creamery delivers serious flavor. From flaky fruit galettes to chewy molasses cookies, their treats feel homemade in the best way. Their ice cream sandwiches, made with fresh cookies and house-made ice cream, are a must-try—especially after grabbing lunch at the market next door.
7. Glacier Homemade Ice Cream & Gelato
3133 28th St
For over two decades, Glacier has been scooping joy in every cone. Known for its massive flavor board and super creamy texture, locals line up for flavors like Salted Caramel Oreo, Lemon Poppyseed, and Midnight Chocolate. Whether you’re eight or eighty, this place hits the nostalgic sweet spot.
Final Scoop
In a city that thrives on health and outdoor adventure, dessert is far from forgotten. Boulder’s best sweet spots embrace creativity, quality ingredients, and the simple joy of indulgence. Whether you’re in the mood for handcrafted chocolate or a scoop of small-batch ice cream, these seven dessert shops are proof that Boulder knows how to do dessert right.