Florida may be known for its sunshine, theme parks, and beaches, but true food lovers know it’s also home to a seriously underrated dessert scene. From the Panhandle to the Keys, the state is dotted with indulgent bakeries, iconic pie counters, and ice cream joints that locals swear by. These are the kinds of places that make you forget your diet, skip dinner, and come back for seconds — and you won’t regret a single bite.
What makes these Florida dessert spots so special? For one, they’re not just about sugar — they’re about flavor, craft, and nostalgia. Whether it’s a towering slice of Key lime pie, fresh guava pastelito, or hand-churned ice cream in tropical flavors, each location on this list brings something uniquely Florida to the table. Some are tucked away in quiet neighborhoods, while others draw lines around the block, but all of them serve sweets that are worth every single calorie.
So if you’re ready to embrace the sugar crash, here are ten spots across Florida where dessert isn’t just a treat — it’s the main attraction. Just don’t blame us when you’re back the next day for more.
Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe — Key West
Imagine a sunbeam captured in pie form: this is the magic of Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe. Famous for their authentic Key lime pies, the shop serves slices that are a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Each bite is a celebration of Florida’s citrus bounty.
Whether you opt for the classic slice or the decadent chocolate-dipped version, your taste buds are in for a treat. Nestled in the heart of Key West, this shop is a must-visit for pie enthusiasts. Discover the true essence of Florida’s most iconic dessert.
A visit here is not just about tasting pie; it’s about experiencing a slice of Key West’s history.
The Salty Donut — Miami & Orlando
At The Salty Donut, each donut is a masterpiece. Known for their inventive flavors, this shop in Miami and Orlando crafts each donut with precision and flair. Imagine biting into a maple bacon donut where sweet meets savory in perfect harmony.
Their guava and cheese donut pays homage to local flavors, offering a taste that’s both familiar and exciting. Every donut is a work of art, appealing to both the eyes and the palate.
It’s no wonder they sell out daily. This dessert haven is more than just a shop; it’s an experience.
Pineapple Hut — St. Augustine
A tropical escape awaits you at Pineapple Hut in St. Augustine. Here, the classic Dole Whip-style soft serve takes center stage. Each swirl is infused with fresh pineapple, creating a refreshing treat that captures the essence of summer.
Adorned with Instagram-worthy toppings, this dessert is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. The experience is akin to a mini tropical vacation, a sweet retreat from the everyday.
Perfect for cooling down on a hot day, Pineapple Hut offers a taste of the tropics all year round.
Better Than Sex — Key West & Orlando
With a name as bold as its flavors, Better Than Sex offers an indulgent dessert experience in Key West and Orlando. The menu boasts rich chocolate creations and creamy cheesecakes, each designed to tantalize the taste buds.
Pair your dessert with a velvety cocktail for an unforgettable experience. The ambiance is as decadent as the desserts themselves, providing a romantic backdrop for your sweet escape.
Every bite is a sensuous journey, redefining dessert indulgence. Better Than Sex is not just a dessert, but a full-bodied experience.
The Baked Bear — Gainesville & Destin
At The Baked Bear, creativity and indulgence collide. Known for custom ice cream sandwiches, this spot in Gainesville and Destin offers a playful dessert experience. Choose from freshly baked cookies or brownies as your base, then stack them high with your favorite ice cream.
The result is a towering creation that’s as fun to build as it is to eat. Overflowing with toppings, each sandwich is a unique adventure in flavor and texture.
For those who love to play with their food, The Baked Bear is a dream come true.
La Segunda Bakery — Tampa
While La Segunda Bakery is famous for its Cuban bread, its desserts deserve equal attention. This Tampa gem offers pastries that taste like a hug from your abuela. The guava pastries are a standout, with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
The flan is creamy perfection, and the tres leches cake is a moist dream come true. Each dessert reflects a piece of Tampa’s rich culinary history. At La Segunda, every visit feels like coming home to comforting flavors and warm hospitality.
Experience the sweet side of Tampa’s traditions with every bite.
Peterbrooke Chocolatier — Jacksonville
Peterbrooke Chocolatier brings a touch of European elegance to Jacksonville with its exquisite chocolate creations. From hand-dipped truffles to chocolate-covered popcorn, each treat is crafted with precision and passion.
The shop’s Southern charm adds a unique twist to the European-style offerings, creating a delightful fusion of cultures. Whether you’re indulging in a rich chocolate bark or a playful chocolate-covered snack, the experience is pure joy.
For chocolate lovers seeking sophistication with a hint of Southern hospitality, Peterbrooke is a sweet retreat.
Donut Experiment — Anna Maria Island
The Donut Experiment on Anna Maria Island is where creativity meets dough. Here, you’re the artist, crafting your own donut masterpiece. Choose from a variety of wild toppings like Fruity Pebbles or sea salt caramel to personalize your treat.
The result is a donut that’s as unique as you are, each bite a burst of flavor and fun. The cheerful island setting adds to the charm, making this more than just a snack—it’s an experience.
For those who love to experiment with flavors, this is the ultimate dessert destination.
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice — Multiple Locations
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice is a beloved treat across Florida, blending icy refreshment with creamy bliss. Their signature offering, gelati, layers Italian ice with soft-serve, creating a symphony of textures and flavors.
From tropical mango to playful cotton candy, each flavor is a sweet escape. The bright and cheerful presentation reflects the vibrant spirit of Florida, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
For a cool treat that captures the essence of the Sunshine State, Jeremiah’s is the go-to spot.
The Ice Cream Club — Delray Beach
For over 30 years, The Ice Cream Club in Delray Beach has been serving scoops of nostalgia. Each flavor tells a story, from the coconut richness of Toasted Coconut to the playful mix in Gator Tracks.
The parlor’s vintage vibe enhances the experience, transporting you to a simpler time with each creamy bite. It’s more than just ice cream; it’s a cherished tradition passed down through generations.
For a taste of the past with a modern twist, The Ice Cream Club is the perfect destination.