Massachusetts has a sweet tooth. Why else would we have been dishing up incredible desserts since day one? This list of desserts is a mix of classic Massachusetts sweet fare and unexpected (but delicious) sugary treats from around the state. Revisit the tried-and-true favorites and maybe even gain a few new ones. I bet you’ll be surprised that some of your favorite desserts have their origins right here in the Bay State!
1. If you love Dunkin Donuts Donuts...
Perhaps the most ubiquitous of Massachusetts desserts. You can find this one at pretty much any street corner.
2. ...try Anna's Hand Cut Donuts
Looking to upgrade your morning indulgence? Try Anna's in West Roxbury. They've been in business since the 60's and their donuts consistently impress foodies and regular Joes across the state.
3. If you love Boston Cream Pie...
Cake, Cream, Chocolate. The 3 C's.
4. ...try it at the Omni Parker House
Boston Cream Pie at the Omni Parker House. Can't get more classic Bostonian than that. This place is where the ORIGINAL recipe came from in 1856.
5. If you love NECCO Wafers...
Maybe they remind you of your grandparents or maybe you still love to crunch on those sweet discs. NECCO (New England Confectionery Company) wafers were first produced in 1847 right here in Massachusetts. During World War II, the government ordered that the candies be sent overseas to the troops. When the war ended, many soldiers remained faithful customers.
6. ...try Taza Chocolate
This one is a new addition to the Massachusetts home-grown candy crowd. Taza artisan chocolate operates out of Somerville and crafts Mexican-inspired stoneground, organic chocolate. Trust me, this stuff is absolutely incredible. They even offer tours of their chocolate-making facilities!
7. If you love Friendly's Ice Cream...
Founded in 1935 in Springfield, this ice cream shop has expanded to serve all sorts of goodies. The ice cream sundaes are a sure to put a smile on your face, and don't forget to save room for a Fribble!
8. ...try Olive Oil Ice Cream at Ribelle
Head to Ribelle in Brookline for a modern twist on a classic cool treat. Served under a chocolate shell and with a smoldering cinnamon stick, this is one bowl of ice cream that you'll definitely want to savor.
9. If you love Fluffernutters...
I could go on and on forever about the virtues of Fluff, but I'll just say that the fluffernutter sandwich is a quintessential Massachusetts sweet snack that everyone should try at least once. Archibald Query invented Fluff in 1917 in Somerville and it has been pleasing Bay Staters (and frustrating dentists) ever since.
10. ...try Smoked Chocolate Bread Pudding at Alden & Harlow
Love bread-based desserts? Are you looking for that old New England feel without an old-fashioned taste? Check out the smoked chocolate bread pudding at Alden & Harlow in Cambridge. A colonial treat with contemporary flair.
11. If you love Toll House Cookies...
Yep, they came from Massachusetts. In 1937 in the town of Whitman, Ruth Graves Wakefield chopped a bar of Nestle Semi-Sweet Chocolate into her Butter Drop Do cookies for her guests at the Toll House Inn. And a legend was born.
12. ...try Frozen Hoagies
They're Boston's original hand-scooped ice cream sandwich truck. This truck has been rolling around since 2011, delivering delicious (and drippy) ice cream sandwiches to all. Check out their shop in Somerville for their full selection of treats.
You know what they say: life is short, so eat dessert first. What are your favorite local sweets?
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