The best bakeries & sweet shops in Lexington

“Counter-serve chain where all of the ice cream selections are made fresh on-site every day.”

“Counter-serve chain serving donuts & its own brand of coffee for sit-down or takeout.”

“Craving something beyond your usual bagel rotation this week? Al-Taj Bakery turns out warm, pillowy manakish loaded with za’atar or melty cheese, plus pistachio-packed baklava that hits the sweet spot, sometimes even with a side of traditional booza.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Because some days call for perfect little almond clouds, swing by La Petite Délicat this week for handmade macarons in playful and classic flavors, plus cruffins, quiche, and coffee. They also do custom macarons for events, so your next get-together looks as good as it tastes.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Lexington staple since 1964, Old Kentucky Chocolates handcrafts bourbon chocolates and cherries, fleur de sel caramels, Derby Mints, dangerously snackable chocolate covered potato chips, plus seasonal chocolate dipped strawberries or grapes and even sugar free options.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 16, 2026

“European Delights Bakery in Brannon Crossing turns weekday mornings into a small victory lap with flaky croissants, cannolis, and not-too-sweet cakes layered with real cream and fruit, plus a proper cappuccino. Family owned, it’s the spot locals trust for a quick treat or that special-occasion showpiece.”

From the Nicholasville newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Whether you're craving old-school Blue Monday bars, melt-in-your-mouth pulled cream candy, or bourbon balls, Ruth Hunt Candies keeps Kentucky’s sweet tooth properly spoiled. They’ve been doing it since 1921, so grab a just-because box this week and try to make it last... good luck.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Whether you’re craving bourbon chocolates and cherries or something delightfully weird like chocolate-covered potato chips, Old Kentucky Chocolates handcrafts Kentucky icons that actually live up to the hype.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 30, 2026

“From pastries and cookies to elegant celebration cakes and those legendary buttercream-topped wedding stunners, Martine's Pastries nails rich yet delicate flavors that feel special on a random Tuesday.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Bakery chain known for warm cookies, ice cream & late-night deliveries.”

“Family-run for four generations, Mondelli's Bake Shop turns out from-scratch cakes with swoon-worthy icings, plus cookies and breakfast pastries that actually taste like someone’s grandma still runs the place. Hit the case for ready-made treats or place a custom order for your next celebration.”

From the Richmond newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Sharp's Candies Inc is cranking out Woodford Reserve bourbon cremes, cherries and truffles, hand-pulled cream candy, and the kind of nuts and chews that mysteriously vanish by Tuesday. Grab a box for the house, another for that coworker who heroically survived your group chat.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Family-owned since 1964, Old Kentucky Chocolates turns Kentucky tradition into bite-size joy with bourbon cherries, Fleur de Sel sea salt caramels, Derby Mints, chocolate-covered potato chips, and those dangerously good chocolate-covered strawberries and grapes.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Bread & Roses Bakery is the Lexington carb fix, with chocolate croissants and Danish, daily baguettes and flax seed rye, plus rotating loaves like challah and rosemary potato. From pretzels to rye, everything’s handmade by folks with real German baking school chops.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Retailer offering a huge selection of candy & bottled sodas in innovative flavors.”

“Dahlhus Fudge is Lexington’s go-to for artisanal, small-batch fudge in a variety of flavors, perfect for gifting, sharing, or hoarding on a Tuesday. Say it like doll-hoos, and catch their pop-up offering a sweet sneak peek of the Lexington Baking Collective.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 3, 2026