Sweet escapes: The 13 best desserts on the Gold Coast

Find the cherry on top of your Queensland adventure with our list of the best desserts on the Gold Coast.

They say you can’t buy happiness — but you can buy dessert, and that’s kind of the same thing. The Gold Coast wholeheartedly agrees, boasting a vast landscape of goodies that cater to the sweetest of tooths. From a boozy hot chocolate and TikTok-famous Dubai chocolate to crispy bubble waffles and skillet-filled hot cookies, creativity runs rife in delectable shapes and forms. Here, our hand-sampled pick of the best desserts on the Gold Coast to sweeten every new adventure.

1. Dipcro Pastry

croissants at Dipcro Pastry, Gold Coast dessert — Dipcro Pastry is renowned for its dippable cup-like croissants.

Bringing TikTok’s hottest sugar trend to its already spectacular patisserie range, Dipcro Pastry knows how to create a stir. Renowned for its dippable cup-like croissants, filling three-day aged pastry with the likes of liquid Biscoff and vanilla custard, the Gold Coast dessert haven now offers a Pistachio Dubai Chocolate Tart, crafting pure excellence out of social media’s favourite crunchy, nutty chocolate. Australian Traveller devoured the new May 2025 menu item which also incorporates chocolate ganache, homemade pistachio butter and crispy kataifi pastry. Gazing into the glass-walled bakery in Dipcro’s Chevron Island location, we’re in awe of how the team manage to keep their hands off all the irresistible gooey ingredients that surround them. If you can’t grab one of the few tables inside, there are another four or so on the street, while the Main Beach location is larger if you’re prepared to drive another 10 minutes’ north.

Address: 55 Thomas Dr, Chevron Island and 27 Tedder Ave, Main Beach

2. 5B2F Ciabatta

Southport welcomed 5B2F Ciabatta in December 2024, a little sister to the suburb’s long-adored 5B2F Bakehouse that seriously stepped up the northern Gold Coast’s desserts scene. Run by an ex-Hyatt chef from South Korea, Moonsun Yoo, the shop presents its delicately crafted sweets in a display cabinet that dazzles every time you visit. Posh pastries, almost too pretty to eat, include the popular ‘Earl Grey’ double-baked marble sponge slice, danishes topped with seasonal fruits, a ‘Paris Brest’ with choux pastry, cream and hazelnuts, and the signature Mont Blanc, which layers honey sponge, chocolate and mascarpone cream.

Address: 29 Davenport St, Southport

3. Ze Pickle

oreogazm dessert at Ze Pickle, Gold Coast — Deep-fried Oreos in doughnut batter with ice cream and liquid Nutella at Ze Pickle.

A Burleigh Heads institution better known for its burgers, Ze Pickle is renowned locally for its sweet chasers. The home of deep-fried dessert innovation, these guys roll out the ‘Oreogazm’, topping deep-fried Oreos in doughnut batter with ice cream and Nutella, plus the ‘Darrell Lee’s Dead’, a baked chocolate chip brownie in a skillet with Dulce de Leche sauce. The main event, however, has got to be the cheeky #WhoTheF***WasMaxBrenner, another skillet filled with a caramel M&Ms and choc-chip cookie and drizzled with marshmallow “gravy". Grab a table outside on the street corner to ensure you score the drooling-onlooker reaction every creation deserves.

Address: 1/37 Connor St, Burleigh Heads

4. Waffle & Bean Dessert Bar

Golden waffle bites topped with crushed Oreo, Kinder Bueno, toasted marshmallow, biscuits, custard, coconut, whipped cream and mixed berries – it’s just the tip of the iceberg at Waffle & Bean Dessert Bar . On paper, the Burleigh Heads nirvana (the team have since opened a second store down south) serves as a speciality dessert bar, but in reality, the decadence of this place is hard to put into words. Alongside their dreamy Belgian-born line-up (a bacon waffle sandwich, perhaps?), there’s freshly baked cookie pies, Mars and Snickers slices, Dubai chocolate brownies (there it is again) and over-the-top milkshakes including ‘I Want Candy’, mixing bubble-gum syrup, milk and ice cream before bringing on the chaos with whipped cream, coloured popcorn and sprinkles. It hits the spot, we promise.

Address: 6/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads and 11/118 Griffith St, Coolangatta

5. Bam Bam Bakehouse

a strawberry tart at Bam Bam Bakehouse, Gold Coast — You can’t go wrong with special strawberry tarts at Bam Bam Bakehouse. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

No ‘best desserts on the Gold Coast’ list can overlook the fabulous Bam Bam Bakehouse , a cult sweet spot that pulls relentless crowds in Mermaid Beach. While the focus sits firmly on refined pastry techniques (but also serving a breakfast menu that dances the line between nasi goreng and karaage chicken-stuffed croissants), Bam Bam is the Gold Coast equivalent of your favourite Parisian boulangerie. Pop in for one of their famed twice-baked almond croissants but don’t be surprised if you’re heading out with a dulce de leche twice-baked version or a Nutella cruffin with almond frangipane, too. What you can be certain of, however, is getting there early because the heavy hitters tend to sell out within just a few hours.

Address: 2519 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

6. Gemelli Broadbeach

tiramisu at Gemelli Broadbeach, Gold Coast dessert — Treat yourself to a tried-and-true tiramisu at Gemelli Broadbeach.

Gemelli brings Little Italy to the Gold Coast – giving you the chance to taste local, truly Italian specialties across various Glitter Strip locations. Our favourite outpost is the original, the Broadbeach eatery, which still nails its famed Nutella Bomba to this day. A deep-fried Sicilian calzone, the standout Gold Coast dessert features a crispy outer layer with a soft inner filling that oozes Nutella goodness and vanilla gelato before quickly melting in your mouth. Bellissimo.

Address: 2/2685 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

7. Janus Deli

the doughnut variants at Janus Deli, Gold Coast dessert — Get swept up in doughnut goodness. (Image: Supplied)

For those who consider the art of doughnuts a competitive sport, you’re probably familiar with Janus Deli . The doughy connoisseurs offer staple creations, like plain cinnamon and vanilla-glazed, but it’s way more fun leaning into their innovative concoctions including the apple fritter, crème brulee, Dubai chocolate and Biscoff varieties. All this and some pretty amazing branded merch spanning t-shirts, tumblers, caps and more.

Address: Shop 14/458 Olsen Ave, Molendinar

8. The Paddock Bakery

desserts at Paddock Bakery, Gold Coast — Stop by the much-adored Paddock Bakery for sweet treats. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

We defy anybody to visit The Paddock Bakery and leave without a sweet treat in tow. Yes, it’s a killer brunch spot, easily one of the best cafes on the Gold Coast, but their sweet treats are pure soul food, sliding smiles upon dials with just one glance at the crammed glass cabinet by the registers. The sourdough doughnuts are a popular pick, available in salted caramel and pretzel cookie crumb, Biscoff cheesecake and other mouth-watering varieties, but don’t neglect the strawberry and Lindt white chocolate muffin or strawberry glazed tart or gooey chunky cookies or itty-bitty carrot cakes or… well, we could go on. Expect to line up around the corner of the building no matter when you arrive but the wait is always worth it.

Address: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads

9. Little Sweet Cafe

With unicorns on the wall and traditional Hong Kong crispy bubble waffles on the menu, it’s hard to say no to a sugar fix from Little Sweet Cafe . You’ll also find pastry puffs with vanilla custard, souffle pancakes, as well as many flavours of bingsu (a Korean shaved-ice dessert) including tropical, super brownie, matcha, and green tea. And to quench your thirst? Pearl teas and matcha lattes should do the trick.

Address: 10/2 Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

10. Franquette

Raspberry & Pistachio Danish at Franquette, Gold Coast dessert — The irresistible Raspberry & Pistachio Danish at Franquette.

A bustling bakery found along Tamborine Mountain’s charming Gallery Walk, Franquette whips up standout sourdough and baguettes — but the stars of the show are its sweets. Paying homage to traditional French patisseries, edible art includes raspberry and pistachio danishes, croissant loaves, tiramisu, lemon curd cruffins and delicious associates. Additionally, there’s plenty of table space across two storefronts that sprawl onto the pavement with further seating, and the staff are warm and chatty, happy to share their favourites if you’re struggling to select.

Address: 155/157 Long Rd, Tamborine Mountain

11. The Gelato Shop

gelato cups at The Gelato Shop, Gold Coast dessert — Save room for gelato. (Image: The Gelato Shop)

Aptly voted as the Gold Coast’s favourite gelato, The Gelato Shop in Broadbeach makes its hero dessert in-store daily, using the finest Italian and Australian ingredients. Scoop your favourite flavour (Kinder Surprise, Baileys Irish Cream and Ferrero Rocher are never bad ideas) into a cup or cone, or go all out with a Rocky Road sundae topped with whipped cream, melted chocolate, marshmallows and nuts.

Address: Shop 8 Aria Building, Cnr Surf Parade & Albert Ave, Broadbeach

12. Quince

Prefer savoury to sweet? We hear you. Quince is an exceptional place to raid, located in the trendy Cornerstone Stores and appearing as a boutique wine shop at first glance. Step inside the tiny shopfront to discover its creamy charms, including incredible cave-aged cheddar from the United Kingdom, housed securely inside a temperature-controlled fromagerie. The team is armed with expert wine pairing advice, ensuring guests leave plenty prepped for a dessert hit sans refined sugar.

Address: Shop 5/570 Gold Coast Hwy, Tugun

Originally written by Natasha Gamra with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Discover the best things to do on the Gold Coast

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.