If you’re visiting a loved one or attending a party this holiday season, you’ll probably ask, “but what can I bring?” The answer? A holiday dessert, of course. There’s nothing like bonding over a perfectly-baked gingerbread cookie or decadent chocolate cake this time of year. For those who want to impress dinner party guests, the Montclair area has a seemingly endless amount of options to choose from. Read on for the bakeries and shops in Essex County for next-level holiday-themed desserts.
Jayce Baudry French Pastry | 17 Church Street, Montclair
Where elegance meets pastries — Jayce Baudry put a holiday twist on its classic cheesecake with a cranberry gingerbread theme including gingerbread cookie crust, and cranberry confit cheesecake batter with fresh orange zest.
The Able Baker | 187 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood
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Key lime pie, gingerbread cookies, chocolate dreidels, and snowman sugar cookies – The Able Baker is a one-stop shop for all holiday dessert needs.
The Cookie Connect | 405 W Passaic Avenue, Bloomfield
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If you’re looking for oozy, chocolaty, cookie creativeness, The Cookie Connect is your spot. For the holidays, this spot is offering a Double Chocolate Dutch Cocoa cookie — and get this, it’s topped with a peppermint glaze and crunchy peppermint candy bits.
The Little Daisy Bakeshop | 622 Valley Road, Montclair
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For cheeky sugar cookies with messages like “Santa, I can explain,” Little Daisy Bakeshop has it covered.
Vesta Chocolate | 598 Valley R0ad, Upper Montclair
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For a truly decadent dessert, opt for Vesta Chocolate’s Holiday Jewel Bonbon Collection. It includes candy cane, rosemary, speculoos (gingerbread), vanilla crème, salted caramel, and eggnog. They’re like little ornaments in a box.
Willow and Olivia | 255 Main Street, West Orange
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It doesn’t get much cuter than this — Willow and Olivia’s Gingies are back this season. Yes, they are wearing puffer coats.
Bonus
Mattarello Bakery | 254 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair
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Mattarello’s holiday baskets are filled with authentic Italian treats — a perfect gift for a colleague.