What Desserts is Kansas City Known For?
Growing up in Kansas City, I remember the first time I tried a gooey butter cake. It was an unforgettable experience that made me instantly realize how special this city is when it comes to desserts. For anyone with a sweet tooth, Kansas City offers a treasure trove of delightful treats. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the dessert scene in this city is one you won't want to miss. Let's dive into the sweet side of Kansas City!
Gooey Butter Cake
One dessert that stands out in Kansas City is the gooey butter cake. Originating from St. Louis, this cake quickly found a home in the hearts of Kansas City residents. With its rich and creamy core, it’s a favorite in many bakeries around town. A visit to Russell Stover Chocolates gives you the chance to taste an exceptional version. Bakeries here are known to have sold thousands of these cakes every year, underscoring their popularity. You can never go wrong grabbing a slice!
Burnt Ends Cupcake
Yes, you read that right! Kansas City is known for its barbecue, but did you know they have turned burnt ends into cupcakes? The Burnt Ends Cupcake is a must-try for both dessert lovers and BBQ enthusiasts. The combination of sweet and savory is unlike anything else you’ll find in the dessert world. If you think you’ve tried every kind of dessert, think again! A local bakery known for this unusual creation, Sweet Bites, reports that they sell out their entire stock weekly, highlighting its demand.
Pie Pies
If you’re a fan of pies, Kansas City has got you covered. You can't talk about Kansas City desserts without mentioning the pie. There’s even the famous pie shop, Grandma’s Pantry, which serves a variety of classic pies. Their signature item is the “Kansas City pecan pie,” made with local pecans. It has been said that over 90% of customers at the store take home a pecan pie, suggesting it's a local favorite! The blend of sweetness and nuttiness makes it a delight in every bite.
BBQ Sauce Brownies
These brownies are another surprising creation that shines a light on the unique baking culture of Kansas City. Combining rich chocolate with a hint of Kansas City's famous BBQ sauce, these brownies present an intriguing flavor profile. A local chef noted that diversifying flavors is essential for inventive desserts, and customers rave about how these brownies create a perfect blend of sweet and smokey. Many shops have popped up dedicated to unusual dessert concoctions that keep customers curious.
Strawberry Shortcake
When summer rolls around, Kansas City makes its presence known with strawberry shortcake. Local farms produce tons of strawberries, with the Hale Farm and their U-Pick fields providing families a chance to collect their own fresh strawberries. The annual Strawberry Festival attracts thousands, eager to taste this classic dessert. It is a significant event, showcasing local talent and raising awareness of farm-to-table practices in dessert-making. The taste of fresh strawberries mixed with homemade whipped cream is an experience that everyone should have!
Concrete Desserts
Just when you thought the dessert selection couldn’t get any more intriguing—meet the concrete. This dessert is essentially a thick, creamy mixture of ice cream and mix-ins, served upside down. You might be wondering how a dessert can be so thick that it can be turned upside down! Places like Ted Drewes serve this popular item, and it has become a must-try treat. The sheer excitement of watching a server flip it upside down gets everyone’s heart racing, creating an experience that's fun to share. The choice of toppings is extensive, making it a perfect treat for any palate.
Final Thoughts
Kansas City has a diverse array of desserts that tell a story about the community and its love for sweet treats. From gooey butter cake to burnt ends cupcakes, each dessert has a flavor that evokes interest and curiosity. If you're in Kansas City, make sure to explore these amazing offerings; who knows, you might find your new favorite dessert waiting just around the corner. With dessert shops popping up everywhere, the adventure of sweet discovery never ends here!