The Sweet Life
Got a serious craving for something sweet? You're in luck because Saugatuck/Douglas has some tasty treats ready to satisfy your sweet tooth. We asked the locals for the lowdown on the best sweet spots in town, and we think you’ll want to give each one a try. So go ahead and give in to your cravings by exploring these local favorites—your taste buds will be sure to thank you!
Cookie lovers will want to pop into Pennyroyal Café and Provisions, where you can find simply the best Brown Butter Cookie in the region, among other delicious baked treats. Also, be sure to stop by The Butler Pantry and dive into their irresistible Butler Pantry cookie made by Cookies on Call – a heavenly mix of caramel, pink Himalayan sea salt, and chocolate chunks that are simply to die for.
For the very best bakery muffins or scones to indulge in with your morning coffee, try Uncommon Coffee Roasters. Another can’t-miss local favorite you’ll want to savor is the gooey goodness of the Scotcheroos at Respite Cappuccino Court.
For a gluten-free delight that outshines its non-GF counterpart, The Farmhouse Deli & Pantry’s rich and moist gluten-free chocolate cake is a total game-changer. Try it with their extra-decadent peanut butter frosting, and you’ll be on your way to foodie nirvana. Into carrot cake? The Farmhouse Deli also features a delectable version of this classic dessert on its daily menu.
No visit to the area is complete without a stop at Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant. Specializing in Michigan fruit pies and desserts, Crane’s bakery also features cinnamon rolls and cookies that are impossible to resist. For a true taste of fall, treat yourself to their incredible apple cider donuts and experience the fresh bounty of their orchards.
During the summer, you’ll want to cool off with a soft-serve cone from Blue Star Café & Ice Cream Treats or a hand-dipped cone from Charlie’s ‘Round the Corner Ice Cream. Or beat the heat with a dairy-free Summer Joy Smoothie from Boardwalk Deli & Ice Cream or the frozen tropical goodness of a Dole Whip from Dairy Dayz.
For to-die-for handmade chocolates and Mackinac Island-style fudge, look no further than Kilwins in downtown Saugatuck. Their small-batch, original recipe chocolate peanut butter ice cream is also worth a wait in line.
And finally, if you’re looking to wrap up a delightful dinner, here are some top local picks for the best desserts in town. For a taste of the classics, crack into the caramelized sugar topping and indulge in the velvety-rich custard of a crème brûlée at The Grill Room at Clearbrook or relish the bright, tart notes of the Key Lime pie at Wicks Park Bar & Grille.
For the more exotic dessert experience, venture into Duck Alley for their delicious Baklava Sundae for a sweet treat that’s crunchy, syrupy, and creamy all in one. Try Root Café‘s made-to-order fried dough Beignets and choose an accompanying dipping sauce, like lemon curd, cran-raspberry jam, or chocolate ganache, to tailor the flavor profile to your preference. And for a sophisticated take on a campfire classic, don’t miss out on the Wood-Fired Toasted S’more at Salt of the Earth, featuring the perfect marriage of fire-kissed marshmallows and sweet, melty chocolate.
Whether you’re into artisanal cookies, classic bakery offerings, frozen treats, or gourmet goodies, the Art Coast offers a diverse range of delectable desserts sure to satisfy the most discerning sweet tooth.
