The best bakeries & sweet shops in Independence

“Counter-serve bakery/cafe chain serving sandwiches, salads & more, known for its bread & free WiFi.”

“Betty Rae's Ice Cream has been churning some of Kansas City’s boldest flavors since 2016, and even their vanilla keeps things interesting. They’ve got a food truck, catering, rewards for repeat cravings, and pints popping up in KC grocery stores, so your sweet tooth has options.”

From the Blue Springs newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Whether you're strictly GF or just gluten-curious, Emily Kate's Foods, LLC, right here in KCK, turns out 100% gluten-free cupcakes, cookies, cakes and cinnamon rolls that taste like the real deal, plus some vegan picks.”

“High Hopes Ice Cream is a KCMO scoop spot turning out rich, joyous frozen treats plus whole ice cream pies that make you look way more prepared than you feel. Order ahead for pick-up, and if you're feeding a crew, their bulk orders and ice cream pies are clutch for the weekend hang.”

From the Kansas City newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Whether you're craving a legit breakfast fix, a cozy Soup of the Week, or a loaf of tangy sourdough that disappears in minutes, Boujee Baker KC brings the flavor with breakfast, lunch, and sweets. Slide this onto your list this week, your future self will thank you.”

From the Independence newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Palacana serves homemade ice cream, fruity paletas, and real aguas frescas, all fresh and naturally delicious. Kansas City born with an Independence spot close to Blue Springs, they’ve been making life a little sweeter for 18 years and growing, and they can even roll up with a party cart.”

From the Independence newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Home of the Hook Em' Up Sandwich, M & M Bakery & Delicatessen LLC. turns humble lunch into a small victory this week with stacked deli classics, snickerdoodle cookies, and that dangerously good fried cinnamon roll. Everything’s made fresh daily and there are no pork products, so bring the whole crew.”

From the Kansas City newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Clinton's Soda Fountain keeps it classic in a historic building with a marble bar, slinging creamy sundaes, dreamy milkshakes, and fizzy phosphates. Grab a Pie Shake, raid the candy wall, or try the chicken salad when you want lunch that unapologetically ends with dessert.”

From the Independence newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Handcrafted ice cream shop with a variety of flavors such as pistachio, plus outdoor seating.”

“Frannie Franks Coffee Cakes is the local go-to for classic and gluten-free coffee cakes, plus cheesecakes that vanish from dessert tables fast. Perfect for book club, office drop-offs, or a "just because" slice that pairs nicely with your home brew.”

From the Independence newsletter, September 6, 2026

“When the sugar craving hits, Chip's Chocolate Factory is your move for hand-made Kansas City Fudge in over 40 flavors, signature turtles, brittle, cinnamon roasted nuts, and tiger butter cups. Family-run, proudly KC, and dangerously good, it’s the perfect excuse to upgrade your snack stash this week.”

From the Kansas City newsletter, August 3, 2026

“When birthdays, baby showers, or random Tuesdays demand sugar, Delicias Bakery has you covered with classic cakes, cookies, and cupcakes you can order online and pick up in store this week. Go simple with traditional decorations in a day or two, or send in custom ideas for a showstopper.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Open since 1945, this bakery chain serves breakfast & light lunch, plus signature cookies & cakes.”

“Fox and Bull Baking Co. turns out tangy sourdough loaves, brioche doughnuts with creative fillings, and breakfast sandwiches on their own soft buns. It’s the kind of bake that makes Tuesday feel like a weekend.”

From the Shawnee newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Bloom Baking Company keeps the City Market smelling like butter and ambition with handcrafted pastries, crusty breads, and made-from-scratch cakes from locally sourced ingredients.”

From the Kansas City newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Heirloom Bakery & Hearth turns out flaky scones, muffins, and solid sandwiches with coffee that gets you moving, then spices up the week with Wednesday Night After Hours for a fun, chef-y spread. When you need a little pick-me-up close to home, this is it.”

From the Kansas City newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Franchise bakery specializing in handcrafted bundt cakes, plus curated gifts & party supplies.”

“Upscale place specializing in European-style desserts and pastries, plus chocolates, quiches and lunchtime eats.”

“The Littlest Bake Shop is Kansas City's first all gluten free and vegan bakery and cafe, turning out scratch-made, small-batch treats plus a local, seasonal brunch and lunch menu. Sip fair trade organic coffee or a throwback phosphate soda with house-made syrups, then pretend you only came for one cookie.”

From the Kansas City newsletter, September 15, 2026

“With over 100 salt water taffy flavors, 15 rock candy options, and 85 chocolate bars, The Candy Wizard is the kind of nostalgia trip that actually tastes good. Voted Kansas City’s Favorite Candy Store in 2023 and 2024, plus a Sick and Sour Department and plenty of quirky gifts.”

From the Kansas City newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Add to the Beauty Bakery is an in-home Kansas City baker crafting made-to-order, from-scratch cakes, cupcakes, pies, and cookies, and they’ll even workshop custom flavor pairings with you. Great for birthdays, office sugar emergencies, or that wedding planning you keep punting to next week.”

From the Leavenworth newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Whether you need a celebration cake or a midweek cookie fix, Morgana's Gluten Free Bakery only makes the good stuff 100% gluten free, from breads and pies to cookies and desserts. You can also spot their bakes at coffee shops and restaurants around KC, perfect for a grab-and-go win.”

From the Independence newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Funky bakery and coffee shop known for fluffy pastries like cinnamon rolls and croissants.”