Los Angeles may be known for its trendy restaurants and gourmet dining, but when it comes to desserts, nothing beats a perfect cupcake. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate or prefer adventurous options like lavender or bacon, LA’s diverse cupcake scene has something for everyone. From small bakeries to iconic dessert shops, the city offers plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here are the top 10 places to get cupcakes in Los Angeles, each offering unique flavors, impeccable designs, and unforgettable taste.
Top 10 Cupcakes in Los Angeles
1. Sprinkles Cupcakes
When you think of cupcakes in Los Angeles, Sprinkles is one of the first names that comes to mind. This iconic Beverly Hills bakery helped pioneer the cupcake craze and is known for its rich, moist cakes and smooth, buttery frostings. Classic flavors like Red Velvet, Vanilla, and Chocolate are fan favorites, but seasonal offerings like Pumpkin or Key Lime provide something for every palate.
Sprinkles has also expanded beyond the bakery with its famous Cupcake ATM, allowing customers to grab a fresh cupcake 24/7. With cupcakes priced around $4.75 each, it’s an indulgence that doesn’t break the bank, and the quality makes it worth every penny.
2. Big Man Bakes
Located in Downtown LA, Big Man Bakes has gained a reputation for its jumbo cupcakes, which are not only generously sized but also incredibly flavorful. The bakery prides itself on using the freshest ingredients, and it shows in every bite. Popular flavors include Red Velvet, Old School Chocolate, and Lemon, with each cupcake featuring a perfectly moist base and a light, creamy frosting that complements rather than overpowers the cake.
At Big Man Bakes, you can choose between standard or jumbo cupcakes, with prices starting at just $2.50 for the regular size. The bakery also offers gluten-free options, making it a favorite for those with dietary restrictions who still want to indulge.
3. Lark Cake Shop
Lark Cake Shop, located in Silver Lake, is known for its beautifully decorated cupcakes and commitment to high-quality ingredients. Each cupcake is crafted with care, featuring elegant designs and decadent flavors. Favorites like Coconut, Espresso Chocolate, and Strawberry Shortcake highlight Lark’s ability to blend classic flavors with a touch of creativity.
What sets Lark Cake Shop apart is its attention to detail, both in flavor and presentation. The cupcakes are moderately priced at around $3.50 each, making it a great spot for picking up a special treat for yourself or a gift for a friend.
4. Magnolia Bakery
Originally from New York, Magnolia Bakery has become a beloved spot for cupcakes in Los Angeles, offering its famous Banana Pudding alongside an array of delicious cupcake flavors. Located in West Hollywood, Magnolia’s cupcakes are known for their soft, delicate texture and creamy, whipped frostings. Classic flavors like Red Velvet, Chocolate, and Vanilla are always available, but Magnolia also offers seasonal varieties such as Pumpkin Spice and Chocolate Peppermint.
Each cupcake is priced around $4, making it an affordable indulgence for anyone looking to experience a taste of one of LA’s most famous bakeries. Magnolia’s charming atmosphere and high-quality desserts make it a top destination for cupcake lovers.
5. Cake Monkey Bakery
Cake Monkey Bakery is a small-batch bakery that specializes in nostalgic treats with a modern twist. Located in Fairfax, the bakery is known for its mini-layer cakes and individually wrapped desserts, but its cupcakes are equally worthy of attention. Cake Monkey’s cupcakes are smaller than traditional cupcakes, but they pack a punch in terms of flavor and creativity. Unique offerings like Black & White Cupcakes, Birthday Cake, and Inside-Out German Chocolate are crowd-pleasers.
The bakery focuses on using organic and natural ingredients, ensuring that each bite is as wholesome as it is delicious. With prices starting at $2.75 per cupcake, Cake Monkey is an excellent spot for those who want to indulge in something sweet without the guilt of overindulgence.
6. SusieCakes
Located in Brentwood, SusieCakes is known for its old-fashioned, all-American baked goods, and its cupcakes are no exception. Each cupcake is made from scratch daily, using simple, high-quality ingredients. SusieCakes offers a range of classic flavors, including Chocolate, Vanilla, and Red Velvet, but it’s the specialty flavors like Mocha, Peanut Butter, and Coconut that make this bakery stand out.
The cupcakes at SusieCakes are priced at around $3.75 each, and the bakery also offers gluten-free and vegan options for those with dietary preferences. With a friendly atmosphere and consistently delicious cupcakes, SusieCakes is a beloved spot for cupcake enthusiasts throughout LA.
7. Milk Jar Cookies
While Milk Jar Cookies is primarily known for its thick, chewy cookies, the bakery’s cupcakes are equally impressive. Located in Mid-Wilshire, this cozy shop offers a variety of cupcakes that are just as indulgent as their famous cookies. The cupcakes at Milk Jar are known for their rich, dense cakes and generous swirls of frosting, with flavors like Carrot Cake, Birthday Cake, and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough delighting customers.
Cupcakes are priced at $4.50 each, and while they may be slightly more expensive than other bakeries, the quality and portion size make it a worthwhile treat. Whether you’re stopping in for a cookie or a cupcake, Milk Jar Cookies offers a delightful experience that’s perfect for dessert lovers.
8. Joan’s on Third
Joan’s on Third is a popular marketplace and café in LA, known for its gourmet food and bakery items, including its fantastic cupcakes. Located in Beverly Grove, Joan’s on Third offers a range of simple yet delicious cupcake flavors like Vanilla, Chocolate, and Lemon. Each cupcake is beautifully frosted and topped with decorative elements that make them as visually appealing as they are tasty.
The cupcakes at Joan’s on Third are moderately priced at around $4 each, and the bakery’s chic, inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot to enjoy a cupcake with a cup of coffee or tea. With its commitment to quality and freshness, Joan’s on Third is a favorite among locals looking for a sweet pick-me-up.
9. Frosted Cupcakery
Located in Hollywood and Long Beach, Frosted Cupcakery has made a name for itself with its deliciously moist cupcakes and unique flavor combinations. The bakery offers a variety of fun flavors, such as Snickerdoodle, Nutella Crunch, and Chocolate Caramel, in addition to classics like Vanilla and Red Velvet. Frosted Cupcakery also offers gluten-free and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their treats.
Cupcakes are priced around $3.50 each, and the bakery’s rotating menu of flavors ensures that there’s always something new to try. Whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or adventurous, Frosted Cupcakery has you covered.
10. Sweet E’s Bake Shop
Sweet E’s Bake Shop in Beverly Hills is known for its stunningly decorated cupcakes and commitment to using high-quality, natural ingredients. This charming bakery offers a wide range of flavors, from classic Chocolate and Vanilla to more creative options like Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter Cup, and Cookies and Cream. Sweet E’s is also known for its mini cupcakes, which are perfect for those who want a little sweetness without the guilt.
The prices at Sweet E’s are slightly higher, with regular-sized cupcakes starting at $4.50 each, but the craftsmanship and quality make it worth the splurge. The bakery also offers custom cupcakes for special occasions, making it a popular choice for parties and events.
Conclusion
Los Angeles offers a diverse and vibrant cupcake scene, with bakeries scattered across the city that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for classic flavors or something more adventurous, LA’s top cupcake shops offer a delightful array of choices. From the iconic Sprinkles to the nostalgia-inspired treats at Cake Monkey, each of these bakeries brings something unique to the table.
Whether you’re a local Angeleno or just visiting the city, make sure to check out one (or all) of these top cupcake spots. With their commitment to quality ingredients, creative flavors, and impeccable presentation, these bakeries have earned their place among the best in Los Angeles. Indulge your sweet tooth and enjoy a cupcake from one of these fantastic shops—you won’t be disappointed!
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