The best bakeries & sweet shops in Kansas City

“Ice cream parlor chain known for its many ice cream flavors & sundaes, plus cakes, drinks & other treats.”

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

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

“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

“Craving playful treats that actually surprise you? Sweet Nonsense mixes scoop-shop comfort with boutique fun, from Dole Whip, dreamy ice cream, and Italian sodas to freeze-dried candy, truffles, popcorn flavors you didn’t know existed, and a full-on chocolate fountain.”

From the Liberty newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Hy-Vee Grocery Store keeps Liberty fed with an in-store bakery, deli favorites, fresh produce, and quick online grocery ordering that actually simplifies life. When you need something sweet for the team or full catering for a neighborhood get-together, their crew has reliable, no-drama options.”

From the Liberty newsletter, September 9, 2026

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

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

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

“Whether you’re sprinting to work or easing into the day, Kolache Factory has warm, handmade kolaches that crush breakfast, lunch, and snack attacks, from Ranchero and Sausage, Egg & Cheese to sweet Cinnamon Twists. Pair yours with a bold espresso drink and call it a weekday win this week.”

From the Shawnee newsletter, August 30, 2026

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

“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.”

From the Kansas City newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Make your ice cream run local this week and watch the makers at Flying Cow Gelato right here in Shawnee craft fresh, silky gelato daily with less butterfat and more flavor, then finish it with toppings from sister shop Annedore’s... think caramel, toffee, and real chocolate shavings.”

From the Shawnee newsletter, August 25, 2026

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

“Buenos Aires Restaurant is a cozy Argentinian-European spot and bakery turning family recipes from Argentina, Italy, and Spain into from-scratch goodness. Swing by for flaky empanadas, proper afternoon tea, and coffee that pairs dangerously well with pastries, the kind of comfort Shawnee secretly brags about.”

From the Shawnee newsletter, August 23, 2026

“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

“Craving something beyond the usual cupcake, make a quick run to Algerian Delights for buttery baklava, delicate mamoul, fruit tarts, and custom cakes that look like art and eat even better. Perfect for a midweek morale boost or weekend coffee-and-pastry ritual, plus they cater when you need reinforcements.”

From the Johnson County newsletter, August 29, 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

“Pop's Sweet Shop churns small-batch fudge, spins cotton candy including organic vegan dye-free tufts, and scoops 22 ice cream flavors into sundaes, shakes, malts and floats, all in a turn-of-the-century vibe that makes weeknights feel like summer vacation. Pro tip, grab Nana's authentic cannoli.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Mrs. Fields Cookies at Oak Park Mall is cranking out freshly baked cookies, gourmet brownies, and personalized cookie cakes that make birthdays, team wins, or random Tuesdays feel official. Go this week, snag a party tray, or order pickup or delivery and claim dessert hero status.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Long-standing ice cream parlor offering many flavors of ice cream & sorbet, plus sundaes & shakes.”

“Jude's Rum Cakes is a veteran-owned bakery turning out buttery rum cakes in every format, from whole cakes to minis and teasers by the dozen. Grab a small for the fam or a 5-pack to share with neighbors, then try not to inhale it all before the weekend even starts.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, September 21, 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

“Paleteria El Chavo brings house-made ice cream and frozen treats alongside legit tacos, tamales and other Mexican staples in a clean, colorful spot. Two locations in Independence and Grandview make it an easy weeknight fix when Lee’s Summit cravings hit... sweet or savory.”

From the Lee's Summit newsletter, September 2, 2026

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

“Howdy Homemade Ice Cream in Lee's Summit serves creamy, homemade scoops made by a team of remarkable adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in partnership with TNC Community.”

From the Lee's Summit newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Three Bears Bakery KC is the local, family-run answer when you need treats that are entirely gluten-free, plus sugar-free and low-carb options that actually taste great. Think bagels, brownies, and pizza crusts, with custom cakes and online ordering when life gets busy.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, September 15, 2026

“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

“Craving something sweet that skips dairy, Mud Pie Bakery keeps it 100 percent plant-based with vegan pastries and baked goods, coffee, and small-batch bottled grab-and-go drinks. Their menu changes daily, with gluten-free options made with care, so swing by this week and find your new standby.”

From the Shawnee newsletter, August 18, 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

“Treat yourself this week at Annedore's Fine Chocolates, where handcrafted truffles, colorful macarons, and even gelato keep your sweet tooth guessing. From silky melt-aways and buttery toffee to crunchy bark and pecan snappers, it’s a legit chocolate playground for anyone in the KC orbit.”

From the Independence newsletter, August 5, 2026

“At Best Regards Bakery & Cafe, scratch-made sourdough, thick-cut Berkshire bacon, and juicy Amish tomatoes combine for a BLT that actually earns the hype. Also keep an eye out for patio-cooked Akaushi burgers and their legendary sugar cookies when you need dessert to seal the deal.”

From the Johnson County newsletter, August 3, 2026

“When you need a win this week, Kolaches & Coffee brings hand-rolled, Texas-style kolaches, fresh empanadas, and viennoiserie from scratch. Slow-proofed dough, coffee pulled with intention, and fillings like jalapeño and cheddar or sausage and gravy make mornings feel engineered for productivity...”

From the Independence newsletter, August 8, 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

“Locals keep The Upper Crust on speed dial for flaky, butter-rich pies by the slice or whole, plus cookies, quiche, and a scoop of ice cream to seal the deal. Keep an eye out for their 3rd Friday Pie Flights... it’s the tastiest decision fatigue you’ll have all month.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Lorellie’s is the kind of Overland Park sweet spot that turns indecisive people into sampler-box pros, thanks to handcrafted, hand cut, fork dipped caramels made from scratch in dark, milk, or plain.”

From the Johnson County newsletter, September 9, 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

“Cedar Street Toffee handcrafts small-batch toffee in flavors like Dark Chocolate, Semi-Sweet, Sea Salt and All Almond, and the 8 oz Combo Box lets you pick two. Made by Teresa in small batches, they also handle corporate gifting with ribbon options and add-your-logo personalization, plus careful warm-weather shipping.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, September 5, 2026

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

“Because your brownies deserve better, The Chocolate Store equips Johnson County home bakers with professional couverture from Valrhona, Callebaut, Guittard and friends, plus cocoa butter colors, fillings, decor, mixes and tools to pull it all off.”

From the Johnson County newsletter, August 19, 2026

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

“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.”

“HAMU Bakery in Overland Park is the spot for feather-light cakes and not-too-sweet pastries with Taiwanese flair. Grab a Snow White slice, tiramisu crepe cake, or a tiger roll, then add egg tarts and almond cookies to your late-night stash because future-you will absolutely thank present-you.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, September 1, 2026

“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

“If your weekend coffee needs a wingman, Dolce Bakery turns it into a moment with breakfast sweets, gorgeous cakes, cupcakes, cookies and bars that taste like someone loves baking.”

From the Johnson County newsletter, September 14, 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

“Planning a celebration this week or soon? Sugar Beats Bake Shop turns your story into edible art with custom wedding cakes, bespoke birthday builds, and fully styled dessert tables for the Kansas City area. Thoughtful, one-of-a-kind designs, delicious desserts, and zero cookie-cutter vibes...”

From the Johnson County newsletter, August 13, 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

“Bakery, cakes and croissants with South Korean, Japanese and French influences.”

“When your sweet tooth wants the real deal, Laura Little's Candy Kitchen is a nostalgic standby making fudge, chocolates, and ice cream the old fashioned way with copper kettles and wooden paddles, a Kansas City tradition since 1970 that still tastes like childhood.”

From the Leawood newsletter, September 10, 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.”

“Candy seller with a variety of chocolates and specialty sweets, plus refillable jars.”

“Kate Smith Soirée turns classic French techniques into colorful macarons, rotating pastries, and custom celebration cakes that actually taste as good as they look.”

From the Shawnee newsletter, August 31, 2026

“From luxe chocolate-covered strawberries to wildly addictive Kandy Grapes kept frozen for that perfect crunch, SugahRush Berries turns snack time into an event.”

From the Lenexa newsletter, September 8, 2026