Best of 29 carrot cake in Chicago
In the heart of the Windy City, indulge your sweet tooth with Chicago's take on the classic carrot cake. This beloved dessert is renowned for its moist texture and warm spices, elevated by the city's culinary talent. From high-end bakeries to cozy diners, carrot cake in Chicago offers a delightful fusion of comfort and elegance. Experience a memorable cake journey through this vibrant city's diverse pastry scene.
- 1. Magnolia Bakery - Chicago
- 2. Sweet Mandy B's Bakery
- 3. A Taste of Heaven
- 4. Lutz Bakery
- 5. Roeser's Bakery
- 6. Bittersweet Pastry Shop & Cafe
- 7. Alliance Bakery — Division
- 8. Sweet Mandy B's Bakery
- 9. Molly's Cupcakes
- 10. defloured: A Gluten Free Bakery
- 11. Goddess and the Baker, 33 S Wabash-Millennium Park
- 12. Brown Sugar Bakery
- 13. Levain Bakery – West Loop, Chicago
- 14. Kristoffer's Cakes
- 15. Smallcakes Cupcakery
- 16. Nothing Bundt Cakes
- 17. Scafuri Bakery
- 18. Molly's Cupcakes
- 19. West Town Bakery
- 20. Artopolis Bakery, Cafe & Agora
- 21. Jennivee's Bakery
- 22. West Town Bakery
- 23. Levain Bakery – River North
- 24. Lost Larson (Andersonville)
- 25. Sweet Rabbit Bakery
- 26. Skinny Piggy Bakery
- 27. Sprinkles Chicago
- 28. Artemio Bakery
- 29. Molly's Cupcakes
1. Magnolia Bakery - Chicago
Classic American bakery with various locations

In April 2022, we had the pleasure of visiting a bakery in Chicago multiple times during our stay. The standout item on their menu was their exceptional carrot cake. We were so impressed that we tried it not just once, but three times during our week-long trip.
The carrot cake pudding was another favorite of ours, and we also enjoyed their banana pudding. While their Hummingbird Bird cake was good, it didn't quite compare to the deliciousness of their carrot cake. If you find yourself in Chicago, we highly recommend paying this bakery a visit and trying their amazing carrot cake for yourself.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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2. Sweet Mandy B's Bakery
Scratch-made baked goods, family-owned

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Breakfast
- Lunch
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3. A Taste of Heaven
Offers delivery and catering services, and has a variety of vegan and gluten-free options

The food and atmosphere of the establishment are both noteworthy. The breakfast fare and desserts, including an oatmeal cookie and carrot cake, were all delicious. The homey and comfortable vibe of the place makes it even more inviting. It is worth mentioning that the carrot cake is a must-try - it is fresh and absolutely delicious.
If you are in the area and looking for a sweet treat, this place should be your go-to. Although it is small and seating may be limited, it is perfect for those who are just looking to grab some cake. The carrot cake is highly recommended for cake lovers - it is fresh and has an amazing taste that keeps you coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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4. Lutz Bakery
Family-owned bakery since 1948, using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes.

The carrot cake being discussed is delicious with a moist and flavorful consistency. It has a sufficient amount of frosting, providing a well-balanced taste. This cake impressed someone enough to express its fantastic qualities, attributing it to the perfect texture and just the right level of sweetness.
This carrot cake's appealing qualities include its moist and rich flavor, along with the appropriate amount of frosting. Its texture is commendable, and it does not come off as excessively sweet. Overall, the cake has gained recognition for its deliciousness, thanks to its combination of a perfect texture and balanced sweetness.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
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5. Roeser's Bakery
Family-owned bakery since 1911, famous for its Old-World baking techniques and recipes.

TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
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6. Bittersweet Pastry Shop & Cafe
Local favorite with charming patio and warm staff

Bittersweet's carrot cake is a standout dessert that customers should not miss. The cake is consistently fresh and has an ideal texture that is sure to delight. One taste of this carrot cake, and you'll understand why it's so popular.
The cake is perfectly spiced and not overly sweet, making it a delicious treat for any time of day. Its quality ingredients and careful preparation make it a step above other carrot cakes. Whether you're a carrot cake aficionado or just looking to try something new, Bittersweet's carrot cake is definitely worth a try.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
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7. Alliance Bakery — Division
Family-owned since 1989, distinct European flair, rotating menu of handcrafted pastries.

Alliance Bakery's carrot cake is an exceptional dessert that stands out from the rest. The cake has a delightful moisture and the right amount of sweetness, making it a pleasure to eat. The cream cheese frosting is a perfect complement, with a rich and creamy texture that elevates the overall taste of the cake.
Overall, if you're a fan of carrot cake, you must try the one from Alliance Bakery. It has the right balance of flavors and textures, making it a memorable dessert experience. The cream cheese frosting, in particular, is a highlight and adds a layer of indulgence to every bite. This carrot cake is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying treat.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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8. Sweet Mandy B's Bakery
Offers delivery and pickup options, caters to dietary restrictions

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Molly's Cupcakes
Customizable cupcakes, build-your-own bar, and nostalgic atmosphere

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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10. defloured: A Gluten Free Bakery
Dedicated gluten-free bakery, high-quality ingredients, dairy-free and vegan options

Johanna Van Dorf operates a bakery that specializes in creating celiac-friendly goods. Some of the popular items on her menu include a moist carrot cake with cream cheese frosting, light and airy angel food cake, and red velvet whoopie pies. Defloured, located in Chicago, is a bakery that is fully dedicated to gluten-free products, and they also offer some dairy-free and vegan options.
If you have not had the chance to visit Defloured, it is worth making a trip. This bakery is committed to providing gluten-free options and offers some choices that are also free of dairy and vegan. Johanna Van Dorf's bakery is well-known for its delicious and safe gluten-free baked goods, making it a must-visit destination for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
TOPICS
- Gluten-Free
- Mexican Cuisine
11. Goddess and the Baker, 33 S Wabash-Millennium Park
In-house baked goods, located near Millennium Park

Step into "Goddess & the Baker" and be transported to a culinary paradise where charm meets irresistible flavors. The cozy atmosphere is enhanced by the irresistible scent of freshly baked goods that beckons you to explore the menu. Whether you're in the mood for a sweet indulgence or a savory delight, this culinary gem has something for everyone. Experience a symphony of tastes and textures that will leave you coming back for more.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
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12. Brown Sugar Bakery
Homemade baked goods, using high-quality ingredients

The carrot cake stands out as a must-try dessert option, known for its delightful moistness and well-balanced sweetness. The spices used in the cake add the perfect amount of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
This carrot cake is consistently fresh and packs a punch in terms of flavor. The combination of its moist texture and well-blended spices creates a memorable dessert experience. If you have the opportunity to try this cake, it is highly recommended.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
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13. Levain Bakery – West Loop, Chicago
Artisan baked goods made from scratch with high-quality ingredients

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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14. Kristoffer's Cakes
Family-owned bakery that uses high-quality ingredients and offers custom cake designs for special occasions

Kristoffer's carrot cake is renowned for its freshness and balanced spices, making it a must-try for any dessert lover. The texture of the cake is moist and full of flavor, with a perfect level of sweetness that is neither overwhelming nor lacking.
The carrot cake at this establishment is truly exceptional, boasting a delicious combination of moistness, flavor, and sweetness. The spices used in the cake are perfectly balanced, resulting in a delightful taste that is sure to satisfy anyone's sweet tooth. Whether you're a fan of carrot cake or just looking to try something new, this dessert is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
15. Smallcakes Cupcakery
Small batch, daily made cupcakes with unique and creative flavors

The carrot cake cupcake I tried was incredibly moist and full of flavor. A hint of spice was present, adding depth to the overall taste. The cream cheese frosting that topped the cupcake was the perfect finishing touch.
I tried a carrot cake cupcake and found it to be delicious. The cake itself was moist and flavorful, with a hint of spice that added complexity. The frosting was creamy and complemented the cake well without being too sweet. Both the cake and frosting were expertly balanced, making for a truly enjoyable treat.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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16. Nothing Bundt Cakes
Handcrafted cakes baked fresh daily using high-quality ingredients.

The carrot cake served was moist and full of flavor, enhanced by a gentle amount of spice. A cream cheese frosting was used to top the cake, providing an excellent complement to the main dish. This dessert was truly a delight, offering a perfect balance of taste and texture.
Trying the carrot cake was an undoubtedly positive experience. Its moist texture and rich flavors were truly impressive, and the cream cheese frosting served as a delicious accompaniment. If you have the opportunity, this carrot cake is highly recommended.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Holiday Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
17. Scafuri Bakery
Family-owned bakery since 1904 with a rich history and traditional recipes
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
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18. Molly's Cupcakes
Customizable cupcakes with a vintage school-house atmosphere

The carrot cake cupcake I tried was incredibly delicious. The cake itself was moist and had a great texture. The frosting was a perfect complement, with a creamy consistency and delicious flavor. Overall, the combination of spices and cream cheese frosting made for a truly enjoyable dessert.
The carrot cake cupcake stood out for its perfect balance of flavors. The cake was flavorful, with a hint of spice that added depth and complexity. Meanwhile, the cream cheese frosting was incredibly rich and creamy, providing a satisfying contrast to the spiciness of the cake. The dessert was moist, well-spiced, and topped with an excellent frosting, making for a truly delightful treat.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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19. West Town Bakery
Locally sourced and organic ingredients, Offers vegan and gluten-free options

The carrot cake at this location is truly exceptional. It stands out for its balance of spices and rich, creamy cream cheese frosting. The cake itself is moist and full of flavor, with a perfect level of sweetness that is sure to satisfy.
This carrot cake is a must-try for any dessert lover. Its combination of spices creates a unique and delicious taste, while the moist and flavorful cake and creamy frosting leave a lasting impression. It's clear that a lot of care has gone into making this dessert, resulting in a truly exceptional culinary experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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20. Artopolis Bakery, Cafe & Agora
Family-owned business offering a taste of Greece in Chicago

The carrot cake in question is truly delicious. Its moist texture and well-balanced sweetness make it a standout. Both the cake itself and the cream cheese frosting were equally impressive, contributing to an overall delicious experience.
If you're a fan of carrot cake, this is not one to miss. The perfect amount of sweetness and the creamy frosting make it a must-try. High praise is due for the quality of this carrot cake, making it one of the best I've ever had. It is highly recommended for anyone looking for a delicious dessert experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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21. Jennivee's Bakery
Cozy bakery offering vegan and gluten-free options

Jennivee's Bakery is renowned for its exceptional carrot cake. Whether you're in the neighborhood or passing through, this dessert is a must-try. The bakery has perfected the texture and taste of this classic treat.
I had the pleasure of tasting the carrot cake at Jennivee's Bakery and can attest to its excellence. The balance of spices was just right, and it wasn't overly sweet. This carrot cake is truly one of the best I've ever had.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Holiday Celebrations
22. West Town Bakery
Uses organic and local ingredients, offers vegan and gluten-free options

The carrot cake at this location is truly delicious. Its moist and packed full of flavor, with a perfect balance of sweetness that is not too overpowering. This cake is sure to delight anyone who tries it.
If you are a fan of carrot cake, this is not one to miss. The cake is incredibly moist and has a rich flavor that is complemented by the right amount of sweetness. It is highly recommended for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious dessert.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
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23. Levain Bakery – River North
Famous New York-style bakery in Chicago, known for its large, indulgent baked goods

Levain Bakery in Chicago is renowned for having some of the best cookies in the city. The bakery is known for its large, delicious cookies in a variety of flavors. Among the best are the chocolate chip, peanut butter, and a seasonal lemon flavor. It is highly recommended to try these cookies while in Chicago.
During a recent trip to Chicago, I made sure to visit the River North location of Levain Bakery. The bakery has an iconic reputation for its exceptional cookies. The cookies were large, freshly baked and absolutely delicious. My personal favorites were the chocolate chip and peanut butter cookies. Despite the crowds, the staff was friendly and attentive. The bakery is definitely worth a visit for any cookie lover.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
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24. Lost Larson (Andersonville)
Artisanal bread and pastries, focus on Scandinavian-inspired cuisine, cozy and stylish atmosphere

Bobby's Carrot Cake is known for its exceptional moisture and delicious flavor. The cake contains generous amounts of grated carrots and is topped with a layer of apricot, which adds a slight tangy taste. Bits of candied walnuts are scattered throughout the cake, providing a delightful crunchy texture.
The Carrot Cake's sweetness is balanced perfectly with the creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting. The frosting complements the cake's flavor and adds a rich and smooth texture to every bite. Overall, the combination of moisture, candied walnuts, apricot, and cream cheese frosting makes Bobby's Carrot Cake a standout dessert.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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25. Sweet Rabbit Bakery
Local family-owned bakery with homemade quality and French techniques

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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26. Skinny Piggy Bakery
Uses fresh carrots and premium ingredients, Custom orders available

TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Breakfast
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27. Sprinkles Chicago
Offers vegan and gluten-free options, caters events, and has a cute, intimate atmosphere

The carrot cake cupcake is a standout dessert, known for its delicious moisture and flavor. A hint of spice is present, adding to its appeal. It's a must-try for anyone who enjoys high-quality baked goods.
The carrot cake cupcake boasts an excellent texture, making it a delight to eat. The frosting is a cream cheese variety, providing a tangy contrast to the sweet cake. The combination of flavors and textures makes this cupcake a truly exceptional dessert.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
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28. Artemio Bakery
Family-owned bakery since 1977, using high-quality ingredients and homemade recipes

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Cheap Eats
29. Molly's Cupcakes
Customizable cupcakes with a vintage school-house atmosphere

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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