The Insider’s Guide to the Best Desserts in Aspen
Aspen is home to an impressive dining scene, including some world-class pastry chefs. While the entrées often get the attention, we think the desserts deserve a little recognition of their own. From homemade ice cream to warm bread pudding, there’s something for every sweet tooth.
As Aspen insiders, we’ve rounded up our favorite desserts at restaurants around town, for the next time you’re visiting MOLLIE Aspen.
Petit Trois Aspen: The Rice Pudding
Located inside MOLLIE Aspen, Petit Trois brings classic French cuisine to the mountains. One of our favorite ways to finish a meal is with the rice pudding. Creamy, comforting and understated, it’s a lovely ending to dinner.
Steakhouse 316: The Bread Pudding
After a steak dinner at Steakhouse 316, we recommend saving room for the bread pudding. Warm, comforting and a little decadent, it’s beautifully balanced in flavor and an exciting switch-up from more traditional dessert offerings.
Limelight Aspen: The Cookie Skillet
Who doesn’t love the classic pairing of a warm chocolate chip cookie served with vanilla ice cream? Limelight Aspen’s cookie skillet is a nostalgic favorite, best shared with friends in the hotel’s cozy lounge.
Campo di Fiori: The Espresso Martini
Sometimes, dessert is best enjoyed in a glass. Known for making one of the best espresso martinis in town, Campo di Fiori is a great spot to enjoy an after-dinner cocktail before jumping into Aspen’s nightlife.
French Alpine Bistro: The Midnight in Paris Crêpe
French Alpine Bistro is known for its intimate, Parisian-inspired atmosphere, and the Midnight in Paris Crêpe fits the setting perfectly. Whether you’re stopping in for dinner or just something sweet, it’s a little taste of Paris in the heart of Aspen.
Paradise Bakery: The Muffins
A longtime Aspen favorite, Paradise Bakery is a go-to for a morning pastry or afternoon treat. Pick up one of their freshly baked muffins with your coffee before heading out to explore town.
Casa Tua Aspen: The Pistachio Gelato
You can’t go wrong with gelato at an Italian restaurant, especially at Casa Tua. The pistachio gelato is creamy, slightly nutty, yet surprisingly light and refreshing. Topped with pistachios, the generous serving comes in two sizes. The half portion is ideal for 2 – 3 guests, while the full size is perfect for sharing among 4 or more.
Lola 41 at The White Elephant: The Pretzel Parfait
If you love a sweet-and-salty combination, try the Pretzel Parfait at Lola 41. With its balance of sweetness and crunch, it’s a fun departure from your typical after-dinner dessert.
CP Burger: The Milkshakes
Sometimes, all you want is a good old-fashioned milkshake. CP Burger offers both classic and spiked versions, alongside its menu of burgers and other fried goods. Stop by after a day on the mountain or while wandering through downtown Aspen.
Clark’s Oyster Bar: The Butterscotch Pot de Crème
Clark’s butterscotch pot de crème is reason enough to visit the restaurant. Smooth, creamy and served with macadamia lace cookies, it’s a favorite for good reason. A little insider tip: ask for extra cookies; you’ll be glad you did.
Petit Familia: The Tres Leches Cake
Upstairs at MOLLIE, Petit Familia serves Latin-inspired cuisine alongside views of Aspen Mountain. If you’re saving room for dessert, order the Tres Leches Cake. This traditional Latin-American favorite is soaked in three types of milk, giving it its signature soft, creamy texture. The deliciousness of the cake is complimented by rooftop atmosphere.
Red Fox Frozen Yogurt: The Frozen Yogurt
For something casual, head to Red Fox Frozen Yogurt, located along the pedestrian mall in downtown Aspen. Choose your favorite flavor, decide on your portion and add toppings to your liking. Just keep in mind that Red Fox is a seasonal favorite and closes for the winter.
Las Montañas: The Horchata Ice Cream
Las Montañas takes the beloved Mexican drink horchata and turns it into homemade ice cream. With its subtle cinnamon notes and creamy texture, it’s a refreshing way to finish dinner.
Element 47 at The Little Nell: The Hot Chocolate
The iconic hot chocolate at Element 47 at The Little Nell is a winter favorite. Made in-house with Valrhona dark chocolate, half-and-half, cocoa powder and a pinch of salt, it’s served with homemade whipped cream and marshmallows. Available during the winter season, it’s best enjoyed in the lounge at Element 47, whether you’re warming up after a day on the slopes or stopping in for a post-dinner snack.
Sant Ambroeus: The Principessa Cake
The colorful Principessa Cake at Sant Ambroues is trending for good reason. As beautiful as it is delicious, the cake features layers of bright lemon sponge, vanilla pastry cream and whipped cream, all finished with pink almond marzipan. A great choice for a special occasion, or simply when you’re in the mood for something a little extra.
From morning pastries to late-night desserts, there’s no shortage of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth in Aspen. Next time you’re dining out, be sure to save a little room for dessert.