The Best Dessert Delivery

Wednesday, January 15th

2025 Dessert Delivery Reviews

Bake Me a Wish!

• Hundreds of desserts to choose from
• Categories include cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, cookies, brownies, and pies
• Prices typically range from $40 to $80
• Shipping fees around $23
• Many desserts have thousands of 5-star reviews
• Great for gift-giving, with baskets, towers, and more
• Personalization options on some desserts
• Can upgrade your delivery with birthday candles, a dozen cookies, or a teddy bear
• Fresh, on-time delivery guaranteed or your money back
• In business since 2005
• "A-” rated by the BBB

Have you ever wished for the perfect dessert to arrive at your doorstep, no matter where you are? That's exactly how Bake Me a Wish! got its start. In 2004, its founder wanted to send his mom some tiramisu from New York City but found no bakeries willing to deliver it cross-country. Fast forward two decades, and Bake Me a Wish! is now a leader in dessert delivery nationwide, offering everything from cakes and cupcakes to brownies, pies, and more. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or just taking really good care of your sweet tooth, this bakery is ready to ship super-delicious treats directly to you.

Beyond cakes: desserts for every occasion

Bake Me a Wish! isn't just about layer cakes - though they have plenty of those, too. From creamy cheesecakes and buttery coffee cakes to chewy cookies and rich brownies, their selection of hundreds of desserts has something for everyone. Want a dessert that makes a statement? Try their seasonal or regional flavors, like hummingbird cake or s'mores brownies. Need something personal? Some desserts come with customization options, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a sweet "thinking of you.” Plus, your dessert comes in an elegant gift box with a personalized note, at no extra charge - a thoughtful touch that adds to the experience. And don't forget to look at the gift towers and options specifically for military service members. Bake Me a Wish! has thought of everything - right down to the add-ons for teddy bears or birthday candles when you get to the checkout.

Be prepared to browse a while

While Bake Me a Wish! offers an incredible array of desserts, navigating their site can be a bit tricky. With no filters to narrow your search, you might find yourself scrolling through dozens of options. But let's be honest: who doesn't enjoy gazing at photos of mouthwatering desserts? And hey, Bake Me a Wish! - if you're reading this, consider adding some filters - it's easy to test them out on a complimentary delivery.

Prices are reasonable - especially with discounts

How about prices? Here's a short list of some treats that might catch your eye, to give you an idea of the range at Bake Me a Wish!:

• Personalized Double Chocolate Cake: $65
• Black Forest Cheesecake: $52
• 12pc Mini Cupcake Favorites: $50
• 24pc Classic Gourmet Cookies: $42
• 12pc JUMBO Brownie Favorites: $57
• Sour Cherry Pie: $48

To snag some savings, keep an eye out for a pop-up the next time you visit the Bake Me a Wish! website. During our last shopping trip to the site, we got a 15% discount on our order when we provided our email address. Better yet, there was a sitewide promo at the time of our review that gave shoppers a generous 30% off... everything.

Delivery you can depend on

Shipping here starts at $23 (which is a little steep), and next-day delivery is often available, even on Saturdays. Your treats arrive carefully packaged with dry ice or gel packs to ensure they arrive fresh and intact. Bake Me a Wish! stands by their deliveries, guaranteeing freshness and on-time arrival - or your money back.

Beloved by dessert fans nationwide

With thousands of rave reviews, Bake Me a Wish! has a reputation as sweet as its desserts. Customers praise the bakery for its reliable delivery, friendly customer service, and, of course, delicious treats. Popular picks like the Tiramisu Classico Cake have almost 4,000 reviews with an impressive 4.62-star average. The Better Business Bureau agrees, giving this bakery an "A-” rating with only five complaints registered there in the most recent 3-year period.

Top pick for dessert delivery

Whether you're looking for a showstopping birthday cake, a cozy coffee cake for a Sunday morning, or a sampler box of cookies to share, Bake Me a Wish! is the ultimate choice for dessert delivery. Their unparalleled selection, stellar service, and commitment to quality make them our #1 recommendation.

Chocolate Maven

• About 50 shippable desserts to choose from
• Treats include brownies, pastries, cookies, pies, and more
• Unique regional flavors plus classic treats
• Prices range from $4 to $32+
• Gluten-free and vegan options offered
• Shipping fees starting around $12
• Best of Santa Fe award-winner for 22+ years

Chocolate Maven, founded by husband-and-wife executive chefs Dharm Andrew Segal and Cassie Ramos, has come a long way from its humble beginnings in a home garage 30 years ago. Today, it's an award-winning bakery celebrated for its handcrafted, delicious treats, available for nationwide shipping and served fresh to local Santa Fe customers. What started with honey-sweetened cinnamon rolls in a home kitchen has blossomed into a vibrant restaurant where visitors can enjoy the bakery experience up close. At the heart of Chocolate Maven is a passion for good food, togetherness, and the joy of sharing meals, supported by a dedicated team, many of whom have been part of the bakery's success for years. With a culture built on goodwill and a commitment to quality, it's no wonder Chocolate Maven has earned the Best of Santa Fe award for 22 years running.

Make sure to filter for shippable sweets

As you start to browse the site, we recommend that you make sure to click the box in the filters to indicate you only want to see Chocolate Maven's shippable desserts - because unless you live close enough to Santa Fe to go pick up your treats in person, you're going to feel sad when you get your taste buds dancing, only to discover that something you'd love to try... is only available for in-person pick-up.

Classic flavors and unique regional specialties

But, don't despair: there are still plenty of options. Here are just a few of the traditional and unique desserts we wanted to sample ASAP:

• Green Chile Apple Pie: $30 (available with signature Maven crust, gluten-free, or vegan)
• Croissants: $24 for a half-dozen (available in chocolate, almond, raspberry, or assorted)
• Cherry Chocolate Brownies ($28 for nearly 2 lb. of brownies, 8 servings)
• Lazy Morning Pastry Box ($26 for an assortment of 12 mini pastries)
• Cookies in numerous flavors, like Classic Shortbread, Chocolate Piñon, Biscochitos, Coconut Macaroons, Piccadilly Lemon Snaps, Cape Cod Cranberry Orange, and King Harold Ginger Snaps (all starting priced at $12, but Chocolate Maven doesn't specify how many you get at that price; we'd guess either a half-dozen or a dozen)

Affordable even for gluten-free and vegan desserts

As you can see, there's nothing at Chocolate Maven that's going to break the bank, and you might even be brave enough to try something bold and new-to-you. And, if you need something that's gluten-free, vegan, or both, there are filters that will take you right to those treats as well. We love bakeries that are considerate like that.

2-day delivery for under $12

However, you'll need to get to the checkout to find out how much your Chocolate Maven desserts will cost to ship. On a $30 blackberry apple pie we were interested in sending as a gift, we were quoted $11.96 for FedEx 2-Day or Express Saver, making for a 4- or 5-day period between placing our order and its delivery. We also were given the choice of upgrading to FedEx Standard Overnight for $87.10, but that would have only gotten the pie there a day earlier than the 2-Day.

No future scheduling of dessert deliveries

That also highlighted the fact that there's no advance scheduling of dessert deliveries through Chocolate Maven - at least, not through the online ordering process. Given the small business nature of this bakery, it seems likely that you could reach out to make other arrangements: if Grandma's birthday is in a month and you know she'd be thrilled to receive a lemon pound cake, we don't imagine it would be too hard to reach out to Chocolate Maven and ask to schedule that ahead of time, so that the delivery would be more likely to get there right on time for the special day.

Big-time fan favorite

Although there aren't many reviews on the desserts listed on the Chocolate Maven site, and there's no listing for the bakery with the Better Business Bureau, we have zero concerns about this company's reputation. You don't earn awards like this place does if you're not consistently providing delicious food and top-tier customer service. All it takes is a peek at Chocolate Maven's feedback on Yelp, Facebook, or even Tripadvisor to see that these desserts are going to be tasty. And, you can count on the support team at Chocolate Maven to make it right if you (or your desserts' recipient) aren't completely satisfied with your order, offering either an appropriate replacement or a refund.

A must-try dessert shop

We're all about supporting small businesses like Chocolate Maven, especially when they deserve our recommendation like this bakery does. You'll love the variety of treats and flavors to choose from, the prices are really reasonable, and they've been a huge hit in the Santa Fe area for more than three decades. If we were looking for something crafted with love and maybe just a bit off the beaten path (like a red chile chocolate pecan pie), Chocolate Maven is the first place we'd buy dessert.

David's Cookies

• 30 options for cookies and brownies
• Just over two dozen additional desserts to choose from (cakes, cheesecakes, muffins)
• Prices range from $26.95 to $67.95
• No gluten-free options
• Shipping is $6.95 for standard and $39.95 for expedited
• Some desserts have hundreds of 5-star reviews
• "A” rated by the BBB
• In business since 1979

David's Cookies has been appealing to dessert lovers since 1979, starting with their fresh, premium cookies and growing into a go-to destination for all things sweet. Whether you're craving their famous cheesecakes, decadent brownies, classic cookies, or portable muffins, this brand has something for every palate. With kosher certification from the Orthodox Union and production in an SQF-certified bakery, David's Cookies pairs top-tier quality with nationwide delivery you can trust.

Cookie Monster would approve

David's Cookies has an unbeatable cookie selection, as you'd expect from the name. Their signature chocolate chip cookies are packed with gooey chocolate chunks and baked to perfection - a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Want more variety? Their cookie assortments, featuring snickerdoodles, oatmeal raisin, and seasonal flavors, make gift-giving easy and delicious. Don't miss the part during checkout where you can enter a gift message at no cost, if these desserts are for a special someone.

Dessert diversity done right

Their cakes are equally enticing, ranging from a rainbow-layer masterpiece to indulgent options like the Milky Caramel Galaxy Cake. Pre-sliced and designed to serve up to 14, these cakes arrive frozen for freshness and ship in sturdy packaging that keeps them intact during transit. And if you're more of a brownie person, their fudgy squares deliver rich, chocolatey satisfaction in every bite. Cheesecakes are on the menu too. Chances are good that if you could find it in a bakery, you'll see it on the menu at David's Cookies. The one downside we noticed? There doesn't seem to be anything gluten- or dairy-free on offer, so you'd have to look elsewhere if that's a factor in the desserts you're ordering.

Budget-friendly

David's Cookies makes sure that you can buy treats for yourself or someone else without overspending. You can get a 1-lb. assortment of cookies for $26.95, but why not upgrade and get 2 lbs. for $39.95? They're also famous for their Butter Pecan Meltaways; they're even more affordable at $33.95 for a 2-lb. tin. Even the cakes aren't over-the-top expensive: how about a Triple Chocolate Cheesecake for $54.95, or a pink-and-purple Carnival Cake for $67.95?

Fast, super-affordable shipping

Shipping fees are pretty reasonable too. You'll only pay $6.95 for standard delivery, and you get to pick the date of arrival. It's pretty fast: when we ordered a cake on a Friday, the first available delivery date for regular shipping was the following Wednesday; paying $39.99 for expedited delivery would only get the treat there a day earlier, so you're probably better off sticking with the lower-priced shipping (and making sure you plan ahead a little so that it's there on time).

A reputation you can count on

With an "A” rating from the Better Business Bureau and nearly 90% 5-star reviews across thousands of customer ratings, David's Cookies has built a loyal following. Comments often highlight excellent packaging, on-time delivery, and the consistent, delicious quality of their baked goods. You'll see those enthusiastic reviews on individual desserts too: just keep in mind that they're grouped together by category, so the 508 ratings count you see on the Marshmallow Chocolate Chip Cake and the Rainbow 10” Layer Cake, for example, aren't an indicator of David's Cookies being sneaky in any way. You'll see which specific desserts are being referred to when you go into the detailed reviews. But, spoiler alert: you won't see anything with an average below 4 stars here.

A go-to for sweet cravings

David's Cookies earns its spot as a top contender for dessert delivery. Their cookies are iconic, their cakes are decadent, and their customer service is dependable. Whether you're sending someone a gift or treating yourself to a treat for a special occasion, David's Cookies is a sweet shop we wholeheartedly recommend.

Harry & David

• Over 200 desserts to choose from
• Many sweets come from partners in the 1 800 Flowers group of brands, like The Cheesecake Factory and Wolferman's
• May not have gluten-free options
• Prices range from $24.99 to $179+
• Delivery fees around $19.99
• Some desserts have numerous 5-star reviews
• "A+” rated by the BBB
• In business for over 100 years

From rich, layered cakes and creamy cheesecakes to chocolates, cookies, and unique seasonal goodies, Harry & David offers a dessert lineup that feels like a celebration in itself. Whether you're treating yourself or sending a sweet gift, their variety and presentation make an impression every time. They've been a huge name in the gift-giving industry for over 100 years, and as part of the 1 800 Flowers family of brands, you'll see desserts from partners like Wolferman's and The Cheesecake Factory in the lineup here as well.

Website could use some filters

In the Harry & David inventory, you'll have more than 200 desserts to choose from - which is why we wish that their filters were a little more robust than "brand” and "price range”. After all, you may not consider a jar of peach preserves or a small container of strawberry milkshake-flavored gummy pigs as top candidates for the treats you've got in mind. It's also worth noting that gluten-free options are sparse, so those with dietary restrictions may need to look elsewhere.

Highly-rated desserts for under $30

But, the good news for the budget-minded is that over 160 desserts are in the "Under $30” category, many of which have stellar customer reviews (pun intended). How about the Chocolate Decadence Cake for $24.99, with 475 ratings averaging a near-perfect 5 stars? Ditto that reputation and quantity of super-satisfied reviews for the Signature Baklava ($24.99), Signature Cinnamon Swirl ($29.99), Cinnamon Sour Cream Coffee Cake ($29.99), and the top seller, the Special Value Mystery Flavors Cookie Box from Cheryl's Cookies ($24, with over 2,300 5-star ratings).

More luxe desserts in the $100 to $200 range

Just for fun, we then asked Harry & David to show us everything in the $200 to $1,000 category for desserts. We'll admit that we were relieved to see that in that range, the selection includes whole feasts and holiday meals, dessert subscription clubs, and other large-scale spreads that aren't a one-off treat. That being said, if you do want something a little more impressive than average, Harry & David has you covered. Some selections that got our mouths watering were the Cinnabon Swirl Cheesecake ($109.99), an 8-pint ice cream sampler ($129.99), and some seasonal arrangements that would make holiday entertaining a breeze (like the Grand Holiday Bakery Tray for $179.99).

Great for gift-giving

For gift-givers, Harry & David shines with thoughtful touches. You can include free gift messages or upgrade to a personalized greeting card for $4.99. Their site even offers reminders for recurring occasions, so you never forget to send something sweet.

Celebrations Passport might save you on shipping

And, if you're going to regularly use the 1 800 Flowers companies for your gifting needs, consider the Celebrations Passport. For an initial annual fee of $19.99 and $29.99 every year thereafter, you can score free standard shipping on all eligible items. Just keep in mind that not all desserts offered through Harry & David will qualify, especially since the perishable nature of some of the treats they ship requires faster delivery timeframes. Without the Passport, we found that most treats had a shipping cost in the neighborhood of $19.99.

Solid reputation - with some mishaps

While Harry & David consistently delivers on flavor and presentation, their shipping and customer service can be a bit hit-or-miss. Reviews on sites like Trustpilot often mention delayed deliveries or poor communication, particularly for time-sensitive orders like birthday cakes or sympathy gifts. However, the company maintains an "A+” rating with the BBB, and their proactive responses to customer complaints suggest they're committed to making things right when issues arise.

Better than average, especially for gift-giving

Overall, Harry & David remains a solid contender for gourmet desserts, especially when you're looking for gift-worthy options. Their wide selection and reputation for quality make them a good choice, though delivery reliability keeps them a little shy of perfection. We'd still recommend Harry & David for your dessert needs - with the caveat that you double-check availability and timelines before placing your order.

Edible Arrangements

• Just under 100 desserts in the "Edible Bakeshop”
• Desserts include cupcakes, cheesecakes, chocolate-covered berries, cookies, fruit bouquets, combo platters and boards, plus others
• Prices range from $6.99 to $211.98+
• Many options are available with 1-hour local delivery, depending on recipient's zip code
• Free next-day delivery and on future dates
• Same-day delivery just $9.99
• Can pick up online orders in store for free
• No surcharge for weekend delivery
• Lots of add-ons available in checkout
• In business since 1999

Edible Arrangements has been delivering fruit-inspired treats since 1999. While the company initially became famous for its iconic fruit bouquets and chocolate-dipped strawberries, it has expanded its offerings to include a range of nearly 100 desserts. From cheesecakes to cupcakes, brownies to cookies, there's something sweet for every occasion. With over 1,000 locations worldwide, Edible Arrangements provides same-day delivery in many areas, making it a convenient choice if you've got any last-minute dessert needs.

How fast do you want your desserts delivered?

First off, you'll want to have an idea of just how quickly you need your treats delivered: as you browse the "Edible Bakeshop” here, you'll be able to see which ones are offered with 1-hour delivery (or the very small handful that are designated as "in-store pickup only”). If you want to really cut to the chase, use the filters to indicate the desired delivery speed; you can also set your preferred price range and/or identify the occasion you're trying to "sweeten up”.

Cute desserts for under $30

Let's just say that you could go simple and budget-friendly at Edible Arrangements, or you could go all out with a really big "I love you”. In the under $30 department, you'll see a couple of cookie boxes (chocolate chip, confetti, or assorted/create your own): simple and sweet. Our personal favorite in the more affordable range is the Mini Happy Birthday Dessert & Balloon Party Kit: a single-serve dessert with a cancel, mini bouquet, and balloon are a super-cute way to make the birthday girl or guy feel special.

Create a whole spread

On the other end of the spectrum at Edible Arrangements, we found some impressive ways to play host or hostess. Just check out the "INCREDIBLE Dessert Board” ($199.99) and you'll see what we mean: it's a beautiful assortment of fresh fruit, chocolate dipped fruit, cookies and more. We also really liked the Delicious Donuts and Fresh Fruit Board with Non-Alcoholic Wine; with a bouquet of flowers included, we could easily picture this as a perfect way to celebrate a new mom.

Go big for over $200

And, if you're really looking to "wow” someone (or you owe them a big apology), Edible Arrangements' most high-end dessert option is the Edible Elegance Bundle with Cheesecake. It's got a bouquet of flowers, six mini-cheesecakes topped with chocolate-covered strawberries, and a "bouquet” of strawberries that give the same impression as the flower arrangement. Make sure there's room on your credit card, though, because the starting price for the smaller option is $211.98.

Affordable and flexible delivery options

Edible Arrangements shines with its delivery flexibility. Same-day service for $9.99 is one of the most affordable in the industry, and next-day or later delivery is free. Impressively, this includes weekends - a rarity among dessert delivery services. For those near a physical location, free in-store pick-up of online orders is also an option.

Extras galore

The customization options at Edible Arrangements are noteworthy. During checkout, you can add premium extras like cookies, chocolates, teddy bears, or upgraded flowers. Their gifting tools, like a complimentary personalized message or an upgraded greeting card for $5.99, help make your delivery feel special.

A mixed reputation

Unfortunately, Edible Arrangements' reputation leaves something to be desired. The company holds an "F" rating with the Better Business Bureau due to unresolved complaints, and it's got similarly low average scores on platforms like Trustpilot (1.5 stars) and Yelp (2.6 stars). That said, customer experiences largely depend on the specific location fulfilling the order. Some individual stores perform much better than the company's average, so it's worth checking reviews for your local Edible Arrangements.

A convenient -but unpredictable - choice

Edible Arrangements earns a middle-of-the-road rating for its dessert selection. The sheer variety and same-day delivery options are strong points, but the inconsistent quality and service from one location to another is hard to overlook. If you're in a pinch and need a fancy treat delivered fast, this could be a good option - just be sure to research the store handling your order to avoid any surprises.

Magnolia Bakery

• About 36 desserts available for delivery
• More options when you choose in-store pickup
• Desserts available for shipping include banana pudding, cookies, cupcakes, cakes, brownies, bark, and more
• $35 for priority overnight shipping
• No gluten- or dairy-free options
• Some personalization options available on cakes
• In business since 1996

Magnolia Bakery first opened its doors in 1996 in NYC's West Village, quickly earning a reputation for its decadent cakes, irresistible cookies, velvety pies, and signature banana pudding. From its humble beginnings as a neighborhood favorite with people lining up down the block, it has expanded to locations across New York, LA, Chicago, and even internationally to places like Qatar and India. Not near a store? No worries - Magnolia Bakery ships a tempting selection of their treats nationwide, letting you enjoy their desserts wherever you are.

Tempting variety of treats

What kinds of desserts can you expect when you dive into Magnolia Bakery's lineup? Their banana pudding has reached cult status, with fans swearing by its perfect balance of creamy pudding, ripe bananas, and soft vanilla wafers. Other desserts like brownies and cookies can also be shipped, making it easy to create a full dessert spread. You can even order whole cakes here. Just be aware while you're browsing that not every treat can be shipped: if you want a flourless chocolate cake or any of Magnolia Bakery's cheesecakes, you'll need to live close enough to one of their brick-and-mortar locations to order online and pick it up in person. And, just FYI, this sweet shop doesn't currently offer anything that's gluten- or dairy-free.

Many options offered for delivery

Let's jump in a little more and look specifically at some shippable desserts you might want to try here:

• Sampler Packs: a fantastic way to see what the hype is all about. Depending on the time of year that you're shopping, you might see a Holiday "Best of Magnolia Bakery” sampler pack with cupcakes and banana pudding, the Ultimate Cookie assortment, or the Chocolate Decadence sampler with brownies/blondies cookies. Prices range from $46 (2 banana puddings, 2 cupcakes) to $139 (5 dozen cookies plus peppermint bark).
• Banana Pudding: available in single-serve or multi-packs, prices range from $5.75 to $84. You'll find the traditional banana pudding flavor, as well as options like red velvet and peanut butter/chocolate.
• Cookies: Magnolia Bakery's year-round selection includes chocolate chunk, oatmeal raisin, and banana pudding cookies. Holiday offerings expand to include seasonal favorites like spritz cookies, cutout sugar cookies, gingersnaps, and jammy thumbprints. Prices range from $18 to $77.
• Cupcakes: while most of the varieties are pick-up only, you'll still be able to order birthday cupcakes, mini cupcakes, and seasonal flavors for delivery. Expect to pay anywhere from $22 to $55.
• Cake: we've reviewed Magnolia Bakery's cake offerings separately here at Top Consumer Reviews , you can usually choose from four different flavors (chocolate, confetti, red velvet, carrot) and prices are from $54 to $60 for the 6” size (and a 9” size may be available, depending on the selected flavor).
• Brownies & Bars: the only option offered for shipping is the Brownie & Blondie Combo with 4 of each at $31. At the holidays, we also spotted Peppermint Bark ($17) and Chocolate Toffee Bark ($15) in this category.

Fast, but pricey, delivery

When placing an order, you can expect efficient shipping: we were able to order on a Friday for a Tuesday arrival. However, delivery fees add up quickly: $35 for priority overnight shipping, plus optional $3.15 Route shipping protection. While we understand the costs of delivering desserts in peak condition, it's a big chunk of change: imagine ordering a brownie sampler for $31 and then paying $38.15 for the delivery.

Mixed reviews on delivery

Magnolia Bakery has glowing reviews for its in-store experiences, but shipping feedback is more of a mixed bag. While some customers rave about their delivered treats, others report issues like freezer-burnt cakes or missed delivery dates on important occasions. With a Better Business Bureau rating of "C-” due to a few unresolved complaints, it's clear that this bakery has some work to do on the shipping front (especially since you're paying an arm and a leg for delivery). And, without a clear satisfaction guarantee - issues are handled on a case-by-case basis - you can't be assured that you'll get a refund if that costly delivery doesn't actually happen on time.

The verdict on Magnolia Bakery

If you're ordering online for local pickup at one of their stores, Magnolia Bakery is a must-try. Their desserts, particularly the banana pudding, are legendary. For delivery, however, it's a mixed experience. The desserts are a little limited in variety, shipping costs are sky-high, and the lack of a firm guarantee is a downside we can't ignore. We give Magnolia Bakery a below average rating overall: it might be worth it for the die-hard dessert lover (especially banana pudding), but not the most reliable option for delivery, especially when time is of the essence for special occasions.

Mackenzie Limited

• Over 100 desserts to choose from
• Prices range from $19.95 to $389.95
• Shipping fees of $18.95+
• Categories include cakes, pies, cookies, ice cream, and chocolate
• Sources treats from other vendors - no in-house bakery
• In business since 1988

Mackenzie Limited got its start in 1988 as a mail-order provider of fine foods from the British Isles and Scotland. Its flagship product is Scottish Smoked Salmon, but you'll also find more than 400 other gourmet treats to choose from, like appetizers, breakfast options, and, of course, desserts.

Around 100 dessert choices

You'll have about 100 desserts to consider here, from cakes and pies to chocolate and cookies. It's a good idea to use the category dropdown if you have a specific type of treat in mind; otherwise, you'll spend a chunk of time browsing.

Highest-end desserts are samplers for $150

How about pricing? The most expensive option at the time of our review was Mackenzie Limited's Nordic Gingerbread Cookie Village for $389.95 (!). Fortunately, that's a big price jump up from the other high-end desserts here, which tend to be around $150 for a sampler - of best-sellers, Southern pies, or Chesapeake classics.

Affordable treats to consider

Plus, there's tons of sweets under $100 too. We were surprised to see Ted Lasso ice cream and some Halloween clearance items starting at $24.95, a peanut butter pie for under $30, and a Harry Potter chocolate set for under $40. As we mentioned, you may want to use the categories to make it a little easier to find what you have in mind; those include cakes, pies, cookies, ice cream, chocolate, individual treats, and thaw-and-serve options.

Delivery will cost you at least $18.95

Don't forget to factor in shipping costs when determining how much your dessert order will cost here. You'll be charged a minimum of $18.95 for standard, $27.90 for expedited, and $43.90 for overnight - and that's just if your order is $80 or less. Once your order reaches $250, you can expect the delivery cost to be 16% of your total.

No refunds on shipping, period

Another reason that matters is because Mackenzie Limited's satisfaction guarantee does not include a refund of shipping charges. While you can reach out to their customer service team if your dessert doesn't arrive in good condition and expect that they'll "discuss how [to] best resolve the issue”, that may or may not include a refund of your purchase price, minus delivery fees.

Reputation fails to impress

This dessert shop doesn't have a perfect reputation with the Better Business Bureau, where it only earns a "B” grade. That's from having 17 complaints in three years, plus a disappointing review average there of just 1.98 stars across 50+ ratings. It was only when we started poking into some of Mackenzie Limited's responses to complaints that we learned this truth: this is essentially a dessert dropshipper as part of Chesapeake Fine Food Group LLC. As one of their reps put it when giving a sorry-not-sorry to a customer complaint, "we do not have a brick and mortar establishment; items featured on our website and in our catalogs could be seen with other vendors and/or grocery outlets”.

Still has quite a few loyal repeat customers

Then again, Mackenzie Limited does have some loyal customers who return year after year to place orders here, especially for gift-giving. You'll see that in the product reviews: not every dessert has customer ratings, but some treats like the Molten Chocolate Cakes have impressive feedback (4.71 stars out of more than 200 reviews, for example). And, those shoppers don't seem to mind that there's no in-house bakery here: wherever the company is sourcing the desserts, it's all good to them.

Good as a backup dessert option

All things considered, Mackenzie Limited comes in a bit below average among the dessert retailers on our list. They come up short in terms of reputation and customer satisfaction, but we can't overlook the 35+ year history and the solid ratings for many of the treats that they sell. We'd still recommend looking at the higher-ranked sweet shops in our evaluation first, keeping Mackenzie Limited as a "maybe” if you don't find what you need somewhere else.

The Swiss Colony

• About 38 desserts to choose from
• Dessert types include petit fours, cheesecakes, seasonal favorites, and more
• Prices range from $9.99 to $129.99
• Shipping starts at $11.99
• Most desserts have hundreds of customer ratings and reviews
• "A+” rated by the BBB
• In business since 1926

The Swiss Colony, established in 1926, is a mail-order company specializing in gourmet foods and gifts. Known for its wide range of products, including cheese, meats, chocolates, and baked goods, the company offers a variety of options for holidays and special occasions. Operating out of Monroe, Wisconsin, The Swiss Colony has long been recognized for its signature gift boxes and assortments, which are delivered across the United States. The company also provides financing options through its credit account, making it accessible for a range of customers (especially businesses that use The Swiss Colony, and its related brands like The Wisconsin Cheeseman, for its holiday gift-giving needs).

About 40 desserts to choose from

The Swiss Colony doesn't have hundreds of treats on offer: just under 40, actually. And, many of those are small cake squares or cheesecakes, most of which are going to be seasonally- or holiday-themed. You likely won't find anything over $130, and there are some wallet-friendly options even priced under $10 (but those will typically be the clearance section of the most recently-passed season). We do think that some of the sweet shops on our list could take a page out of The Swiss Colony's book (or catalog?) when it comes to user-friendliness: there are tons of filters you can use, like price, flavor occasions, and sale items. Many rival dessert retailers make you sift through hundreds of options without any filters, so points to The Swiss Colony there.

Many desserts have customer ratings

Depending on which desserts catch your eye, you might have a lot of customer reviews to consider - or none at all. For example, the Caramel Apple Cheesecake, priced at $59.99 and on sale for $10 less during our visit, had nearly 1,600 ratings averaging 4.1 out of 5 stars. Sounds like a winner. Shoppers are a little less enthusiastic about the Miniature Baklava ($29.99 to $39.99 on sale), with an average of just 3.8 stars spanning 2,300+ ratings. And, when you look at the various flavors of Celebration Cakes (think petit fours), they might have been too new for much buzz: some flavors had no reviews, and others had a dozen or less (and they ranged from 1-5 stars). But, on the whole, it's typically pretty easy to see what people think about the desserts they got from The Swiss Colony, and most treats come in with at least 4 stars.

Shipping fees of at least $11.99

Just watch out for shipping costs. While The Swiss Colony occasionally offers free shipping as a promo deal, you're typically going to see charges around $11.99 for your order - even if you're only ordering a Chocolate Dobosh Torte for $21.99. Do the math and you'll see that's about 50% of the product price: pretty steep, in our opinion.

Lots of unhappy customers lately

Unfortunately, despite having an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau, The Swiss Colony hasn't received much positive feedback lately. As we scrolled through comments left on Trustpilot and other third-party sites within a month or two of this evaluation, they were all negative - and a not-insignificant number of those complaints were from repeat, long-term customers who were really disappointed with their most recent experiences. Most of the woes reported were related to ordering and shipping snafus, but product quality is being questioned as well.

Real customer experiences

One disgruntled shopper said that they received a cake that was past the "fresh by” date - but The Swiss Colony only offered a 10% refund. As they put it, "nineteen years of being a loyal, happy customer down the drain because they dropped the ball.” Others frequently mentioned that they were disappointed by the product size, saying that they were led to believe the food they were getting was much larger in size than it turned out to be. One product was described as looking like it was made for toddlers, the portions were so small. The Swiss Colony says that "your complete satisfaction is guaranteed”, but we're not seeing that in the rants from their still-unsatisfied customers.

Not our favorite for desserts

For all of these reasons, The Swiss Colony earns a lower-than-average ranking among the dessert retailers in our evaluation. The selection of sweets isn't the most awe-inspiring, and we're not thrilled with shopper feedback on third-party platforms like the BBB and Trustpilot. But, if you stick to the desserts with lots of higher ratings, and you speak up assertively with customer support if something goes awry, you might be okay buying your treats here. Just give The Swiss Colony's higher-rated competition a look before you do.

Milk Bar

• About two dozen desserts
• Options include cakes, cake truffles, pies, and cookies
• Gluten-free options available
• Prices from $27+
• $15 for standard shipping, $30 to $65 for express
• Free standard shipping on orders of $100+
• In business since 2008

If you think you heard of Milk Bar on a Netflix documentary, you'd be right. Christina Tosi is the creator of this dessert shop, and she was featured on the series "Chef's Table”. She's all about capturing the home baking spirit and translating it into the goodies served up at her brick-and-mortar locations and through her online store. Milk Bar has been around since 2008 and the company delivers nationwide.

Decent selection, glitchy online store

There's a decent selection of desserts at Milk Bar, with a strong emphasis on cakes, cake truffles, pies, and cookies. There's even a whole section for gluten-free options. What's crazy, though, is that (at least during our most recent visit to the Milk Bar website) the link for cookies went absolutely nowhere. Given that cookies are the flagship product for this sweet shop, that really caught us off-guard (and not in a good way). Fortunately, we were still able to get to the cookie selection by clicking on the Desserts heading in the top navigation bar on the site, then clicking on Cookies in the dropdown menu.

Desserts mostly include cookies, cakes, and pies

Even so, you shouldn't expect a vast array of choices when buying desserts from Milk Bar. Here's how the inventory broke down at the time of our review:

• Cookies: just three options, including an Oatmeal Cream cookie tin, a Milk Bar sampler of cookies/truffles/other treats, the Holiday Spread with pie/truffles/peppermint bark. You'll pay $27 for 6 cookies or $46 for a dozen.
• Cakes: just six choices, one of which was designated as "sold out” (the gluten-free Birthday Cake). Cakes start at $62.
• Pies: three flavors that included Chocolate Milk Bar, Milk Bar, and Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch (also sold out). Pies are typically around $53.
• Cake Truffles: initially made from cake leftovers, these are like cake pops without the stick. Flavors will typically match whatever is "in season” at Milk Bar. Prices usually land around $40/dozen.

Get savings if you place a larger order

You may want to fill up your cart with desserts, though, because that's how you can save at Milk Bar. First, as we browsed the site, we got a $15 off $80+ offer if we provided our email address. Then, we noticed that shipping is free on orders of $100+; otherwise, plan on spending $15 for standard and $30 to $65 for express delivery.

Too many disappointed customers

Then again, maybe you don't want to stock up on sweets at Milk Bar. Why? The Better Business Bureau gives the company an "F” rating. Even though that's only for failing to respond to a half-dozen complaints there, the reviews left on Google paint a not-so-terrific picture too. There, more than 30% of the 200+ ratings were just 1 or 2 stars. Calls to Milk Bar during normal business hours go unanswered - we also got voicemail on a typical weekday afternoon. Desserts don't arrive when expected, even when people paid for 2-day delivery. And, the nail in the coffin: when the treats come, the quality is frequently subpar, with many customers saying the desserts were crumbly when they should be moist, dried out, and generally overpriced for what they paid.

Nothing sweet to say about this dessert shop

So, let's recap. At Milk Bar, there are only around two dozen dessert options, some of which may be designated as "sold out” when you're ready to place your order. Shipping can be a bit spendy if you don't purchase at least $100 in treats, customers aren't overly thrilled with the desserts after delivery, and support from Milk Bar is hard to reach. It shouldn't come as a surprise that this sweet shop lands one of our lowest ratings.

Williams Sonoma

• Wide variety of 200+ desserts, including cakes, cookies, tarts, and seasonal specialties
• Dietary options: gluten-free, nut-free, plant-based, kosher, vegetarian, and organic desserts
• Prices range from $2.99 to $399.90
• Membership perks with Reserve ($99/year) for free shipping and other benefits
• Standard shipping fees of up to $24

Williams Sonoma has long been a trusted name in the world of high-quality kitchenware, home goods, and gourmet food. Founded in 1956, the brand is synonymous with sophistication, offering everything from professional-grade cookware to elegant dining essentials. And when it comes to desserts, Williams Sonoma has an impressive array of treats designed to delight anyone with a sweet tooth. However, while the selection is definitely tempting, the overall experience of ordering desserts from this retailer leaves much to be desired. But read on to find out what we mean.

Bargain items on clearance

There are more than 200 desserts at Williams Sonoma, and they range from affordable to extravagant. The lowest-priced desserts at Williams Sonoma will usually be the clearance items from the previous seasonal treats. For example, during the winter holiday season, you might find a Haunted House Mug Topper priced from $2.99 to $19.99 (originally priced from $15.95 to $31.90) or some Pumpkin Biscotti for $8.99 to $18.99. But, there are plenty of in-season bargains too, with a bag of cookies for as low as $9.95.

Luxe options over $150 too

How about the other end of the spectrum? We found a Merry Christmas Gift Box by Cartwright and Butler for $199.95 to $399.90, a biscotti jar for $219.95, and large cakes priced around $179.95. (We'd personally go for the Three-Layer Millionaire Cake...) No matter what your budget might be, there's something at Williams Sonoma that will fit the bill, pun intended.

Options for gluten-free and more

And, if you've got special dietary needs, chances are good that you'll find something that works at Williams Sonoma. We recommend that you use the filters if you need to see only those treats that are gluten- or nut-free, vegetarian or plant-based, kosher, or organic.

No reviews on desserts

Unfortunately, you won't be able to rely on shopper reviews to pick your perfect dessert: Williams Sonoma doesn't let customers leave feedback on its products. That's a big problem when you're thinking about spending $100 or more on a cake or dessert tray. With no feedback, you have no way of knowing if the desserts arrive fresh, taste great, or even show up looking like they do in the photos.

Shipping and delivery drawbacks

One of the biggest issues with ordering desserts from Williams Sonoma is shipping. Free delivery is only available if you sign up for their Reserve membership, which costs $99 a year. Without it, shipping fees can be as high as $24. Another downside is the lack of delivery options. You also can't pick a specific date for your order to arrive. Instead, you're given an estimate, which can make planning for birthdays, holidays, or other events tricky. This lack of flexibility makes it hard to rely on Williams Sonoma for special occasions.

Trouble with late deliveries

The problems don't stop there. Williams Sonoma has a bad reputation for delivery. The Better Business Bureau gives them an "F” rating, with thousands of complaints about orders arriving late - or not at all. Many customers have said their special occasions were ruined because the food they ordered never showed up. Can you imagine sending Grandpa his favorite brownies for Father's Day... only for him to wind up empty-handed and sad? That's the gist of more than a few of the rants people have left for Williams Sonoma.

Better choices elsewhere

While the desserts at Williams Sonoma look amazing, the risks aren't worth it. Between high shipping fees, delivery problems, and no on-site reviews, it's hard to trust them. If you want to make sure your dessert shows up on time and tastes as good as it looks, you're better off ordering from a company with a stronger reputation.