Pittsburgh’s Top Chocolate Desserts: Where to Find the Best in the City

Pittsburgh may be known for its pierogies and Primanti Brothers sandwiches, but the city also boasts a thriving dessert scene, especially when it comes to chocolate.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, indulging in one of Pittsburgh’s top chocolate desserts is a must. From rich and decadent cakes to innovative chocolate treats, the city offers a variety of options that will satisfy any sweet tooth. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Pittsburgh’s best chocolate desserts and where to find them.

1. Chocolate Decadence Cake at Prantl’s Bakery

• Location: Shadyside, Pittsburgh, PA
• Why You Should Try It: Prantl’s Bakery is famous for its legendary Burnt Almond Torte, but their Chocolate Decadence Cake is just as deserving of the spotlight. This rich, flourless chocolate cake is dense, moist, and intensely chocolaty, making it a go-to for serious chocolate lovers. Topped with a layer of smooth ganache, this cake is a slice of heaven on a plate.
• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee to balance the richness.

2. Chocolate Pot de Crème at The Café Carnegie

• Location: Oakland, Pittsburgh, PA
• Why You Should Try It: The Café Carnegie, located in the Carnegie Museum of Art, offers a sophisticated dining experience that includes their renowned Chocolate Pot de Crème. This French dessert is a silky, custard-like pudding made with high-quality chocolate, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.
• Perfect Pairing: Pair it with a glass of red wine for an elegant dessert experience.

3. Chocolate Chip Cookies at Nancy B’s Bakery

• Location: Homestead, Pittsburgh, PA
• Why You Should Try It: Sometimes, nothing beats a classic chocolate chip cookie, and Nancy B’s Bakery has perfected the art. Their massive, soft, and chewy chocolate chip cookies are a Pittsburgh institution, loaded with gooey chocolate chips in every bite. Freshly baked and served warm, these cookies are the epitome of comfort food.
• Perfect Pairing: Wash it down with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate nostalgic treat.

4. Chocolate Raspberry Torte at The Milkshake Factory

• Location: Multiple locations in Pittsburgh, PA
• Why You Should Try It: The Milkshake Factory is a Pittsburgh favorite for milkshakes, but their Chocolate Raspberry Torte is a hidden gem. This torte features layers of rich chocolate cake, tart raspberry filling, and smooth chocolate mousse, all enrobed in a glossy chocolate ganache. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with the contrasting textures, makes this dessert a standout.
• Perfect Pairing: Pair it with a classic chocolate milkshake for a double dose of chocolate indulgence.

5. Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie at The Butterwood Bake Consortium

• Location: Lawrenceville, Pittsburgh, PA
• Why You Should Try It: The Butterwood Bake Consortium is known for its unique and artisanal desserts, and their Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie is a must-try. This decadent pie combines the rich flavors of chocolate and bourbon with the crunch of toasted pecans, all in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s a sophisticated take on a Southern classic, with a Pittsburgh twist.
• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it with a hot cup of tea or a shot of bourbon to enhance the flavors.

6. Chocolate Mousse at LeMont Restaurant

• Location: Mt. Washington, Pittsburgh, PA
• Why You Should Try It: LeMont Restaurant offers one of the most stunning views of Pittsburgh, and their Chocolate Mousse is equally impressive. This dessert is a rich, airy mousse made with dark chocolate, served in an elegant presentation that’s almost too beautiful to eat. The smooth, velvety texture and intense chocolate flavor make this a dessert to remember.
• Perfect Pairing: Savor it with a glass of champagne while taking in the panoramic view of the city.

7. Chocolate Bread Pudding at Kaya

• Location: Strip District, Pittsburgh, PA
• Why You Should Try It: Kaya is known for its Caribbean-inspired cuisine, but their Chocolate Bread Pudding is a standout dessert. This warm, comforting dish features chunks of chocolate-studded bread soaked in a rich custard, then baked to perfection and served with a drizzle of caramel sauce. The result is a gooey, chocolatey dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
• Perfect Pairing: Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish.

8. Chocolate Truffles at Mon Aimee Chocolat

• Location: Strip District, Pittsburgh, PA
• Why You Should Try It: Mon Aimee Chocolat is a haven for chocolate lovers, offering a wide selection of artisanal chocolates from around the world. Their handmade chocolate truffles are a true treat, with a variety of flavors to choose from, including dark chocolate, raspberry, and hazelnut. Each truffle is crafted with care, making them a perfect gift or a luxurious treat for yourself.
• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them with a cup of espresso for a decadent afternoon pick-me-up.

Conclusion

Pittsburgh is a city that knows how to do chocolate right. From classic chocolate cakes and cookies to innovative and artisanal desserts, there’s something to satisfy every chocolate craving.

Whether you’re a lifelong Pittsburgher or just visiting, be sure to check out these top chocolate desserts and indulge in the sweet side of the Steel City.

With so many delicious options to choose from, you’ll be planning your next dessert stop before you even finish your first bite.