Just like its rich history, New Braunfels, Texas is also rich in its confections. If you’re looking to get your sugar fix, here are six sweet spots to visit while strolling through this Texas city.
The Gourmet Ice Co.
1102 N. Walnut Ave
The Gourmet Ice Co. specializes in some of the most unique snow cones you’re bound to come across in Texas, but their flavors aren’t the only special aspect of this little shop: all the syrups are completely free of artificial dyes, flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives. The owner, Gina, wanted to make snow cones for foodies using locally sourced fruit and herbs, and she does not disappoint at this year-round shop. No worries if you don’t want to stray from the traditional flavors; old favorites such as Tiger’s Blood, piña colada, and strawberry are on her weekly rotating menu. Also be sure to pick up a loyalty card for a free snow cone of any size with your tenth stamp.
Recommendations: blackberry lavender, strawberry balsamic, and pumpkin spice (seasonal)
Babycake Truffles
283 South Union Ave
This locally-owned bakery caters to various cravings beyond its delicious namesake truffles, including themed caramel apples, macarons, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls with toppings, cheesecakes, and decadent ice cream straight from Clear River Pecan Co. in Fredericksburg. If your sweet tooth gives way for more savory cravings, breakfast items such as muffin omelets are coming soon to accompany the bakery’s new early hours.
Plus, Happy Hour for the little ones runs Tuesdays to Thursdays from 3 to 6, and all day Saturday.
Recommendations: birthday cake or amaretto truffles, butter pecan or salted caramel ice cream, and any of the cupcakes (for which the owner, Jeanna, gladly accepts suggestions)
The Red Oak Bakery
596 S. Castell Ave
No gluten allowed? Head on over to the Red Oak Bakery for 100% gluten-free, made in-house goods that never skimp on taste or texture. These handmade desserts are made with high quality seasonal ingredients from local and sustainable sources, including their Red Bud Roasters coffee from San Marcos. There are even options for those looking to go dairy-free with their pastries, such as the bakery’s coconut lemon pound cake. Diet restrictions don’t mean you have to sacrifice “light and fluffy!”
Recommendations: scones, chestnut brownies, and carrot cake
2tarts
139 N. Castell, Suite 300
For those days when you need a cute and colorful atmosphere to accompany your scrumptious pastries, 2tarts manages to serve up both in equal measure – plus some additional brownie points for their music choice. (David Bowie, anyone?) These little works of art are all made from scratch, and there’s everything from lemon poppy scones to Nutella poptarts, brisket empanadas to rosewater macarons, meticulously decorated sugar cookies to custom cakes, and more. Don’t forget your tea and coffee, of course! You’ll need it for their early openings and late night closing times.
Recommendations: key lime pie, tiramisu, macarons, and bread pudding
Sweet Bites by Lizzie
954 W San Antonio St
Sweet Bites by Lizzie may look small on the outside, but don’t be deceived: This is a stellar place to visit for quality and quantity. Lizzie, the owner, studied culinary arts at Le Cordon Bleu in Austin, and now provides both individual and party-sized servings of custom desserts out of her New Braunfels location. If you should need a modest order of 48 cupcakes for that next luncheon, Lizzie is your gal. Cookies and cupcakes and cobblers, oh my!
Recommendations: sugar cookies, peanut butter cheesecake brownies, and their custom cookies
Theis German Bakery at Fork & Spoon
651 North IH 35
New Braunfels has a strong attachment to its German heritage, so it was the perfect town for Theis to set up shop. This is a place of “favorites” when it comes to most desserts. Once a treat calls out to you, it’s nigh impossible to stay away from it, unless your beloved cheesecake hits the road for a while on its rotating menu. All of Theis’ goods are baked on location without the use of preservatives, and they offer custom items with at least 48 hours’ notice. It’s the perfect fix while you wait for Wurstfest.
Recommendations: apple and cherry strudel, German chocolate cake, any of their cheesecakes
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