where to get 'em
Below are my top 5 favorite places for cucapkes in Gainesville, Florida. They're all equally as good and each one specialize in something different. I hope you can find what you're looking for.
- Volta
- Where: 48 Southwest 2nd St | 352.271.4361
- Why You Gotta Go: Volta is definitely more commonly known for their coffee and tea brewing than their pastries, but don't overlook this place. The cupcakes are cold and perfectly compliment a cup of joe. They don't need any fancy tricks; simplicity is what they do best. This is the place for a perfect a classic chocolate or vanilla cupcake. The frosting to cake ratio is right on point too. They're traditional in every sense, and trust me that's not a bad thing.
- Uppercrust
- Where:4116 NW 16th Blvd | 352.376.7187
- Why You Gotta Go: Widely known around Gainesville for breads and pastries, Uppercrust is a staple for baked goods. But this classic bakery is anything but classic when it comes to cupcakes. Yes, that is a cupcake to the left. It doesn't have frosting, but it doesn't need it. A cream-filled center keeps this cupcake completely unconventional, yet oh-so delicious.
- Maude's Classic Cafe
- Where:101 SE 2nd Pl | 352.336.9646
- Why You Gotta Go: Located in the heart of downtown Gainesville, Maude's is one of the best places to relax and enjoy some time with friends. The independent cafe is known for it's coffee and desserts. While all the deserts here are good, the cupcakes can't be missed. Maude's is a wild card when it comes to the treats, sometimes traditional and sometimes eclectic. Either way, make sure you grab a cup of joe when you do and take a seat on the terrace. Maybe even grab a board game, they're free to Maude's customers.
- Karma Cream
- Where: 1025 West University Ave | 352.505.6366
- Why You Gotta Go: Located on University Avenue, Karma Cream is a vegan-friendly bakery with some of the best sweet treats in Gainesville. While their mostly known for a wide variety of ice cream, the cupcakes served here can't be missed. The baker, whose name is Payal Patel and featured on my interview page, manages to transform almost anything into a delicious cupcake bite. And everyday provides for a new kind of cupcake concoction.
- Sarkara Sweets
- Where: 201 SE 2nd Ave | 1.877.YUM.CAKE
- Sarkara Sweets, also known as Yum Cupcakery, is one of the few cupcake only shops in Gainesville. And they make sure everyone can enjoy one since they sell Gluten-Free chocolate and vanilla cupcakes. Sarkara also specializes in non-traditional flavored cupcakes, like Taro and Pistachio. And when you do, make sure to talk a walk around the beautiful downtown scenery.