A Guide to Philadelphia's Most Irresistible Desserts

1. The Cannoli: An Italian Market Masterpiece

No exploration of Philadelphia desserts is complete without surrendering to the cannoli. South Philly's historic Italian Market and surrounding neighborhoods are treasure troves for this classic Sicilian pastry.

• What to Expect: A crisp, fried pastry shell filled with a sweet, creamy ricotta cheese mixture, often studded with chocolate chips or candied fruit and dusted with powdered sugar.
• Where to Find It:
  • Termini Brothers Bakery: An iconic institution with multiple locations, their cannolis are a benchmark of quality and tradition.
  • Isgro Pastries: Another legendary Italian Market bakery, consistently praised for its fresh, expertly filled cannolis.
  • Varallo Brothers Bakery: A long-standing favorite known for its authentic Italian pastries, including delicious cannolis.

2. Water Ice (Italian Ice): The Quintessential Philly Refresher

Especially during warmer months, water ice (or Italian ice, as it's known elsewhere) is the quintessential Philadelphia cool-down treat. It's smoother than a snow cone and typically dairy-free.

• What to Expect: A refreshing, fruit-flavored frozen dessert with a smooth, creamy texture. Popular flavors include lemon, cherry, mango, and chocolate.
• Where to Find It:
  • John's Water Ice (South Philly): A legendary, family-run spot serving up classic water ice for decades. Often has lines, but it's worth the wait.
  • Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard: While now a national chain, Rita's originated in the Philadelphia area and remains a beloved go-to for water ice and frozen custard.
  • Pop's Homemade Italian Ice (South Philly): Another long-standing neighborhood favorite.

3. Ice Cream: From Historic Parlors to Artisan Scoops

Philadelphia has a rich ice cream heritage and a thriving modern scene.

• What to Expect: A wide range of flavors, from classic to inventive, often made with high-quality, local ingredients.
• Where to Find It:
  • Bassett's Ice Cream (Reading Terminal Market): America's oldest ice cream company, serving up rich, traditional flavors in the bustling market since 1861.
  • The Franklin Fountain (Old City): An old-fashioned ice cream parlor and soda fountain experience, serving historically inspired ice creams, phosphates, and sundaes.
  • Weckerly's Ice Cream (Fishtown & West Philly): Known for its small-batch, French-style ice cream made with local, seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations.

4. Philadelphia Butter Cake: A Rich and Gooey Delight

Not to be confused with the St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake, Philadelphia Butter Cake (sometimes called German Butter Cake or "Philadelphia Gribble Kucha") is a distinct local specialty.

• What to Expect: Typically a dense, rich, buttery cake with a slightly crisp top and a gooey, custard-like center or topping. It's less about height and more about decadent texture and flavor.
• Where to Find It: Often found at local bakeries throughout the city and surrounding suburbs, particularly those with German or Pennsylvania Dutch roots. Look for it at places like Stock's Bakery (Port Richmond) or various bakeries in the Reading Terminal Market.

5. Donuts: From Potato Perfection to Gourmet Glazes

Philadelphia's donut scene is buzzing.

• What to Expect: Everything from classic yeast and cake donuts to creative, gourmet creations.
• Where to Find It:
  • Federal Donuts: Famous for its unique combination of fantastic donuts (often with inventive glazes), fried chicken, and coffee. Multiple locations.
  • Beiler's Doughnuts (Reading Terminal Market): An Amish-run bakery serving up incredibly fresh, pillowy donuts in a dizzying array of flavors. Expect a line!

6. Tastykakes: The Iconic Philly Snack Cake

While not a restaurant dessert, no discussion of Philadelphia sweets is complete without mentioning Tastykakes.

• What to Expect: These pre-packaged snack cakes – Krimpets, Kandy Kakes, Butterscotch Krimpets, Juniors, and fruit pies – are a nostalgic and beloved part of Philadelphia's culinary identity.
• Where to Find It: Everywhere! Convenience stores, supermarkets, and even some local cafes.

Philadelphia's dessert landscape is a delightful blend of time-honored traditions and modern culinary innovation. From the classic Italian pastries of South Philly and the refreshing simplicity of water ice to decadent butter cakes and world-class ice cream, the City of Brotherly Love offers countless ways to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, save room for dessert – Philly's sweet treats are an essential part of its unique flavor.

Bill Zimmerman
Publisher
Publisher / Webmaster at Philly Bite Magazine.