7 Of The Best Dessert Places South of Adelaide

Published on 29 August 2024

Imagine biting into a rich, gooey brownie or a scoop of lush, velvety ice cream - sounds amazing, right?

Well that’s just a sample of what you’ll find when you get out and explore the City of Onkaparinga.

With a myriad of incredible dessert spots right on our doorstep, it might just be time for sweet tooth’s to do a little happy dance.

So let’s go on a sugary journey down south!

We’ll start our adventure at Urban Desserts at Morphett Vale and pop-up kiosk at Colonnades, where the desserts are simply out of this world.

Offering an explosion of flavours that will wow you with every bite, each deliciously delectable, meticulously designed dessert on the menu is an experience in itself.

Whether it's the funky atmosphere, uber-friendly staff or their intricate Milo cake, this is one dessert joint you don’t want to miss.

Next up, a visit to McLaren Vale wouldn't be complete without a stop in at Bracegirdle’s.

Whether you're craving a rich hot chocolate to warm up, some chewy, chocolate coated caramel or a luscious Shiraz truffle, it truly is a chocolate lover’s paradise.

But far more than just desserts, they also offer delicious savoury breakfast, brunch and lunch options – and excellent coffee - to balance things out!

Oh, and you can’t go past their decadent high tea…sweet treats included and best shared with friends.

Of course, any good dessert-lover in southern Adelaide knows that The Macaron Bar in Christies Beach is a must-do too.

With a cult-like following and the most colourful dessert cabinet you'll ever see, it’s hard to resist the charms of their delightfully chewy macarons, loaded cronuts, cakes and tarts!

Known for fresh, inventive macaron flavours like lamington, fairy floss and sour lime - and their exceptionally friendly staff - it would be remiss to not grab a sweet treat as you stroll past.

A little further afield, Sweet Mess Patisserie in Clarendon crafts a range of indulgent cakes and desserts too, all made to order using fresh, local ingredients.

Even better? Every dessert is made from scratch, ensuring every bite is filled with that memorable ‘made with love’ quality and unforgettable flavours that are sure to blow your mind.

And finally, why not cap off the perfect day with a visit to Royal Copenhagen in Port Noarlunga?

Think buttery crisp waffle cones and silky, Danish-style ice cream with fascinating flavours like toffee & sesame or chilli chocolate. In fact, there’s over 65 flavours on rotation! Bliss!

And if the weather’s a little cooler? Unwind with a hot chocolate or smoothie inside or out – or grab something ‘to go’ and stroll along the Esplanade nearby.

Of course, if you’re looking for something a little less immediate – like a custom made cake for a special occasion – the City of Onkaparinga has that in spades too.

For those who appreciate true artistry, Quintessential Cakes in Christies Beach offers beautiful cakes, cupcakes and cookies, all made-to-order for any event.

From personalised thank you cupcakes to gorgeous celebration cakes, every custom order is a true masterpiece.

More than just a cake maker, Kerri easily accommodates any request – and her creations are always a hit.

And if you need another local go-to for custom cakes, Jacqui from KAIT.J.M Sweets‘n’Treats in Hackham West can create the perfect edible centrepiece for any event too.

With rave reviews about her delicious gluten-free and vegan-friendly options, her flavours are spot on whatever you choose… but you can’t go past her fan favourites like strawberries and cream or Mars.

With soft, fluffy cakes, smooth buttercream and almost-too-good-to-eat toppers, it’s hard to stop at just one slice!

Fancy an Acai bowl, smoothie or icy treat? Then head to Taste of Paradise's Hackham shop where doggies eat for free! They also have a funky food truck to cater your next sporting event, school fete or work gig.

So, what are you waiting for?

Put on your comfy shoes (maybe leave the belt at home) and get ready to head out on a sugary adventure that’s sure to satisfy those cravings!

Go ahead and treat yourself to some of the best desserts Adelaide has to offer… and they’re all right here down south!