If you’re a self-proclaimed sweet tooth with a passion for dessert exploration, then Key West is the ultimate sugar-dusted paradise you’ve been looking for. Forget about calorie counts; this southernmost island is brimming with iconic treats, hidden dessert gems, and sugary surprises that’ll have you singing praises from Duval Street to Whitehead Street.
After all, what pairs better with a stroll past Ernest Hemingway’s house or a lazy afternoon of Key West’s outdoor dining than indulging in something decadent? Whether you’re hunting for the best Key lime pie or craving the flakiest almond croissant, I’ve got the ultimate guide to desserts in Key West that’ll satisfy every craving.
Grab a fork, loosen that belt, and prepare for a dessert tour you won’t forget. Oh, and don’t forget to DM me pics of your favorite desserts to keep the sugar love alive.
The Star of the Show: The Best Key Lime Pie
Key West and Key lime pie go together like whipped cream and—well—Key lime pie! Key West isn’t just the birthplace of this citrusy delight; it’s where the legendary combination of tart key lime juice, creamy condensed milk, egg whites, and graham cracker crust shines its brightest. But where do you go to find the best Key lime pie? Here are my top picks, depending on how you like your pie.
1. Blue Heaven
Located on Petronia Street, Blue Heaven is a bucket list spot for uncovering Key West’s best experiences. Where else can you dine with roosters roaming around while you dig into a Key lime pie topped with mile-high meringue? If you’re after authenticity, excellent outdoor seating, and that playful island vibe, this is your go-to spot. Blue Heaven’s Key lime pie isn’t just dessert; it’s an event.
2. Old Town Bakery
On the quieter Eaton Street, Old Town Bakery manages to perfectly balance the tartness of key limes with the sweetness of a graham cracker crust topped with velvety whipped cream. It’s humble yet sophisticated. Plus, their pastry scent wafts through the air with a siren’s call as you wander the streets of Old Key West.
3. Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe
You can’t leave the Florida Keys without visiting Kermit’s on Greene Street. Famous for pies and a gift shop featuring all things lime green, Kermit’s is legendary. Bonus points for their ability to ship whole pies to your doorstep. Yes, that’s right, no matter how far away you are, you can bring a slice of Key West home with just a small delivery fee.
4. Flamingo Crossing’s Key Lime Ice Cream
If pies aren’t your thing, Flamingo Crossing on Duval Street offers the ultimate summer escape, blending tart Key lime flavor into their homemade ice cream. It’s refreshing, creamy, and 100% worth the brain freeze.
Off the Beaten Path Desserts You Can’t Ignore
Almond Croissants at Old Town Bakery
We’re back at Eaton Street because, well, Old Town Bakery deserves a second shoutout—this time for their life-changing almond croissants. Picture a buttery, flaky masterpiece stuffed to the brim with sweet almond filling and sprinkled with just the right amount of cinnamon sugar. This isn’t just a pastry; it’s an experience.
Pro tip? Grab one of their made-to-order sandwiches while you’re there!
Moondog Cafe’s Tarts
Moondog Cafe, nestled across from Whitehead Street’s Hemingway House, takes tart desserts to another level. Their Key lime tarts are mini pies bursting with flavor and topped with light-as-air whipped cream. This is the perfect grab-and-go treat while you wander the shops and public places of historic Key West.
Key West Cakes
This is the spot for celebrations, Instagram-worthy cupcakes, and bold dessert flavors like mango and guava. Located on White Street, Key West Cakes is a standout in the dessert world. Their rotating selection ensures that there’s always something new to try. Cupcakes small yet mighty, packed with sweet surprises? Yes, please.
Ice Cream Adventures in Key West
Flamingo Crossing
Not just limited to their Key lime flavor, Flamingo Crossing crafts island-inspired flavors like guava, mango, and vanilla bean ball. If you’re strolling Duval Street with an iced coffee in hand, adding a scoop of Flamingo Crossing’s homemade ice cream is an excellent choice.
Wicked Lick
Found on Duval Street, Wicked Lick literally serves up magic with their nitrogen-blasted made-to-order ice cream creations. It’s cool science + delicious sweets, making this a can’t-miss stop for adults and kids alike.
Matheeson’s
Right on Greene Street, Matheeson’s offers big scoops and classic flavors, from dark chocolate to white chocolate chip. Plus, they’re infamous for serving portions so generous you might need help finishing your cone (or not).
Date Night Heaven: Better Than Sex, yes, that’s the real name
For nights when indulgence is top priority, reserve a table at Better Than Sex Desserts. Their dimly lit, romantic environment paired with craft cocktails and wine glasses rimmed in chocolate makes for the perfect date spot—or a fab girl’s night out. Their dark chocolate lava cake is legendary. Reservations are essential for this intimate eatery, so plan ahead.
Pairing Desserts with Dinner
When dining out at some of Key West’s best restaurants, don’t pass up the unique dessert pairings they offer. For example, after polishing off citrus beurre blanc over yellowtail snapper or Jamaican jerk chicken, ask your server if the house-made tart dessert or their favorite dessert is the chef’s specialty. You’ll often discover jewel-like creations that perfectly end your meal.
Pro Tip: Always take dessert advice seriously when wait staff offer their wisdom. They really do know the menu inside and out!
Need Dessert To-Go? Order from Kermit’s
If island life leaves you craving a return trip—or a taste of the Florida Keys once you’re home—head online to Kermit’s. Their whole pies are shippable, delivering the distinctive tart taste of our iconic Key limes to your doorstep. It’s the perfect way to relive your foodie adventures down Overseas Highway.
Final Bite: Explore, Eat, Indulge
Key West truly is a dessert lover’s playground. From the graham cracker crust of the best Key lime pie at Blue Heaven to the creamy decadence of Flamingo Crossing’s homemade ice cream, the island’s dessert scene is overflowing with personality, charm, and yes, sugar.
Still debating where to start? Walk through Duval Street, listen for the laughter floating from local spots, and follow your nose to the nearest bakery. Trust me, dessert in Key West is as much about the experience as it is about the flavor.
