Coffee and pastries—a match made in heaven. There’s something about the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the scent of buttery, flaky pastries that just feels right. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or on the hunt for something new and exciting, coffee shops offer a plethora of delicious pastries to accompany your favorite brew. Here, we’ve ranked some of the best coffee shop pastries to indulge your sweet (or savory) cravings.
1. Croissant
Ah, the classic croissant. This French pastry has stolen the hearts of many with its buttery, flaky layers that practically melt in your mouth. Whether you prefer it plain, stuffed with chocolate, or filled with almond paste, a well-made croissant is a staple in any good coffee shop.
2. Cinnamon Roll
The sweet, gooey perfection of a cinnamon roll is hard to beat. Soft, pillowy dough swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a generous slathering of cream cheese icing—need we say more? Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, and you’ve got yourself a match made in pastry heaven.
3. Danish Pastry
Danishes come in all shapes and sizes, from fruit-filled delights to cheese-laden wonders. What they all have in common is their flaky, buttery layers that make each bite a delight. Whether you opt for a cherry danish, a cheese danish, or a classic raspberry version, you’re in for a treat.
4. Scone
A perfect scone is a thing of beauty. These British delights come in a variety of flavors, from traditional plain to blueberry, cranberry-orange, or even savory options like cheddar and chive. Scones are best enjoyed with a dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of jam, alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee.
5. Muffin
The humble muffin often gets overlooked, but a well-made muffin can be a delightful treat. Whether you prefer a classic blueberry muffin, a decadent chocolate chip muffin, or a savory option like bacon and cheddar, muffins are versatile and delicious.
6. Pain au Chocolat
Similar to the croissant but with a delightful surprise inside—chocolate! Pain au Chocolat is a heavenly pastry that combines the buttery, flaky goodness of a croissant with rich, melted chocolate. It’s the perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers everywhere.
7. Fruit Tart
For those looking for a slightly lighter option, a fruit tart is the way to go. A crisp, buttery crust filled with luscious pastry cream and topped with fresh, seasonal fruits—what’s not to love? These pretty pastries are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.
8. Coffee Cake
Last but certainly not least, we have coffee cake. This moist, crumbly cake is often flavored with cinnamon and topped with a sweet glaze or streusel topping. It pairs perfectly with, you guessed it, a steaming cup of coffee.
Next time you find yourself in need of a caffeine fix, be sure to treat yourself to one of these delectable coffee shop pastries. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or looking to try something new, there’s a pastry out there waiting to delight your taste buds.