Recently, I scoured the various sweet spots in Lake County, just so I could let you all know where to find the best ones. I know life is tough right? Whether you are looking for a couple dozen cupcakes for a party or just one to satisfy that sweet tooth as you are out running errands–we’ve got the ultimate list for you on where to go. Wherever you happen to be in Lake County, you shouldn’t have to travel too far to find a great cupcake destination.
I’m going to start with a disclaimer: I was not given any free cupcakes to write this article. This article is based entirely on my own opinions of the following places and cupcakes. I just want to add that this was a really fun article to write, cause really, who doesn’t love cupcakes?
So here we go, these are all my {delicious} findings:
Best Cupcakes in Lake County
Cacao Sweets & Treats Closed as of May 2018
122 Center St., Grayslake | 847-223-2253
This is my ultimate favorite cupcake place–ever. Not just in Lake County, but anywhere. Cupcakes here are big and absolutely scrumptious. My husband and daughter are huge fans, too, and they get pretty excited when they see a Cacao’s box on the counter. Everything at this bakery is organic and made from scratch. My daughter reacts badly to certain artificial food colorings, so I have to be careful when she gets certain treats. I can always breathe easy knowing these cupcakes are safe for her to eat. Be sure to call ahead to reserve some for Saturdays because they always sell out fast.
They even have more than sweets and treats and periodically host workshops or other community events and classes. Learn more about their Kids Cook Naturally classes with Ms. Lisa.
Lovin Oven Cakery
2207 N. Rt. 83, Round Lake Beach | 847-231-4700
355 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville | 224-207-4500
This place is full of yummy stuff! If you are feeling really adventurous, try the filled cupcakes. Mmmmm…. Lovin Oven is also featured in Little Lake County’s Best Paczki in Lake County, just in case you want to mark your calendars to place your order in advance for next year.
Dalton’s Cakes
970 Harris Rd., #2A, Grayslake | 847-223-2344
Located on the edge of Prairie Crossing, this cute little shop caters to special dietary needs. Dalton’s offer sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and the facility is even peanut-free. Just ask if you need something special, such as no artificial food colorings. Read Little Lake County’s review of Dalton’s Cakes to learn more.
Couture Cupcake Cafe
20771 N. Rand Rd., Kildeer | 847-438-9300
1157 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette | 847-728-0509
The number of different flavors here will blow your mind. All are available in full cakes, cupcakes, and mini cupcakes! They also have gluten free, low sugar, 100 calorie, and vegan varieties. My personal favorite: Root Beer Float Cupcake. It’s really hard to choose just one favorite here though!
Baker Boys
33 St. Johns Ave., Highland Park | 847-433-0430
Each day they have their selection of standard cupcakes available but they also rotate through a variety of specialty flavors (such as Hot Fudge Sundae, Cookie Dough, Caramel Mocha and lots more!). Everything is made from scratch and they also have delicious frozen custard!
Whisk
216 S. Main St., Wauconda | 847-487-2253
This cute bakery has lots of yummy goodness! My daughter devoured her cupcake here before I barely got a taste in but it was amazing and had tons of frosting on it! We also tried cookies here and their hot drinks are very tasty as well. Whisk is also mentioned in Little Lake County’s Fan Favorites: Best Hot Chocolate in Lake County.
Worth the Trip:
Gigi’s Cupcakes Chicago-Wilmette
317 Lake Ave., Wilmette | 847-728-0848
So many different flavors to choose from here! Kentucky Bourbon, Strawberry Shortcake, and Peanut Butter Cup are just a few faves. But they also have several gluten-free and sugar-free varieties for those with special dietary needs. Read about Little Lake County writer Heather’s experience at Gigi’s Cupcakes opening gala.
And don’t forget these options:
Jewel-Osco
Find your closest location here.
Jewel stores have fantastic bakeries! Great cupcakes and cakes as well. One of our favorite cakes (Chocolate Mousse Tort) comes from here and it is out-of-this-world delicious.
Mariano’s
Find your closest location here.
Mariano’s also has a great bakery. Their cupcakes are huge and have lots of frosting–so yummy! Also, we love their carrot cake and cookies.
Where is your family’s favorite cupcake found? Let us know in the comments section.
AGREED! DALTON’s is THE best! They have dairy free/gluten free options for those with food allergies. They were able to provide cookies and cupcakes for my 4 year old’s birthday and I could actually have him eat them with his food allergies. THEY WERE DELICIOUS!!!!!!