The best bakeries & sweet shops in Catawba County

Udderly Delicious Ice Cream churns super-premium, homemade scoops the old-fashioned way, with flavors, specialty sundaes, and Sno-Biz shaved ice that actually hits the spot. The kicker for Hickory folks, the indoor mini-golf course and pinball machines make dessert feel like a night out, kids or no kids.

From the Hickory newsletter, October 24, 2026

Corner Bakery is cranking out cupcakes, cookies, macarons, and custom specialty cakes, plus dog treats and dog cakes so your pup can celebrate too. Put it on your this week list and hit them up for a custom creation when birthdays sneak up.

From the Hickory newsletter, September 29, 2026

When you want a cake that actually tastes as good as it looks, Ladybugs Sweet Treats is the Hickory go-to for custom, from-scratch creations plus cupcakes, cookies, pies, and more. Family-owned with time-honored recipes and vegan or sugar-free options, they’ll nail everything from birthdays to weddings.

From the Hickory newsletter, October 12, 2026

Corner Bakery is a Hickory go-to for turning sugar cravings into small celebrations with cupcakes, macarons, cookies, and specialty cakes made to order. They even bake dog treats and dog cakes, so the four-legged family member isn’t left out when dessert plans happen at your place.

From the Hickory newsletter, October 19, 2026

When a grocery sheet cake won't cut it, Red Bird Cake Studio turns your idea into an edible showpiece. From elegant wedding tiers to playful birthday designs, their custom creations look almost too good to slice, perfect for Hickory celebrations big and small.

From the Hickory newsletter, October 5, 2026

When your morning needs both a flaky pastry and a few putts, 3 Little Chicks Coffee & Bakery comes through with fresh-baked goods and good coffee, plus a patio and mini-golf that keeps kids happy while you sip. A cozy, local go-to for low-key hangs.

From the Hickory newsletter, October 27, 2026

Carpe Crustum Bakery handcrafts cakes, pies, cupcakes, and pastries in small batches with real-deal ingredients, so everything tastes like someone actually cared. This week, snag a custom cake or a treat that’s vegan or gluten free, then pair it with Jagshead Coffee and a scoop of Hershey’s.

From the Statesville newsletter, August 19, 2026

The Sweet Candy Plug is that local fix when the afternoon slump hits, a birthday stash needs backup, or you just want something unapologetically sugary. Simple idea, strong execution, and somehow the bag is always empty before you make it home.

From the Hickory newsletter, September 17, 2026