Sweets for Your Sweet

Erin Wing - Seattle
February 7, 2012

‘Tis the season for flowers, heart-shaped art projects, class sets of valentines and yes, maybe even a little sugar overload. Go ahead... Indulge your little sweetie's love for candy, frosting and chocolate at our favorite Seattle-area sweet shops. Each spot is located in a walkable neighborhood with great parks nearby, so you can burn off some of that sugar after you indulge. Along the way, you'll explore some new territory and learn a thing or two about the tastiest establishments in town. Enjoy! (And don't forget to brush!)

Boehms Candy

Boehms Candy is nestled in the foothills of the Alps. (The Issaquah Alps, that is.) A stroll around the Boehms' grounds will make you feel like you're in a Bavarian village. You can take a free self-guided window tour to see the candy making in action, which is great for those with a short candy factory tour attention span; or for the serious candy fan, sign up for a 35-45 minute long group tour. (Great for kids four and up.)

Trophy Cupcakes

You can find cupcakes in every corner of Seattle, but Trophy Cupcakes definitely takes the cake. The standard flavors are available every day and you'll find a rotating list of creative concoctions like pineapple upside down cake, chocolate chip mint, and snickerdoodle. They're also celebrating the new year with ice cream-inspired flavors like Cookies and Cream. Yum! With locations in Wallingford, Bellevue and University Village, you are never far from cupcake nirvana.

Larsen's Bakery

Larsen's Bakery is the spot for some Scandinavian sweets. They're famous for their Kringle, which is always fresh and layered with buttery goodness. Or try a number of other delish Danish desserts, like almond horns, bear claws, and cinnamon twists. Bonus: They offer milk to wash down the goodies, so nutrition-conscious parents can feel a little better about feeding the toddler a huge sugar- and butter-filled pastry for breakfast. Seating is limited, so go during the week or later in the morning if you plan to dine in.

Theo Chocolate

Located in the Fremont neighborhood, Theo Chocolate is the only organic, fair trade "bean to bar" chocolate factory in the United States. You'll find an amazing selection of free samples, so you can try, try and try again before you buy. Perfect for indecisive kids and chocolate-obsessed moms. Public tours are available seven days a week, but they're best for kids seven and up and they fill up fast. Be sure to call ahead.

Archie McPhee

Although not specifically a candy shop, Archie McPhee carries the weirdest selection of candy in Seattle. Wacky candy and gum flavors include fire ant, dill pickle, meatball, and so much more. You'll find a wide selection of bacon-flavored merchandise, as well as brain shaped suckers, candy moustaches, and onion ring mints. Archie McPhee is not just for kids, and it's definitely not for the faint of heart. (For example, you'll want to steer clear of the candy cigarettes, and the Glow in the Dark Zombie Play Set may not be for everyone.) But if you're looking for a place to giggle at the gross and goofy, this Wallingford institution is a must see.