The largest dessert festival in America, Dessert Wars, returns to Tampa

a plate of donuts and a stack of cookies on a table
Photo via Dessert Wars

Everyone in attendance is a winner at Dessert Wars. The largest traveling dessert festival in America makes its triumphant return to Tampa at the Florida State Fairgrounds on June 1. Tickets just went on sale, and you’ll want to secure yours quickly as they sell out every single year. It’s one of the top festivals in Tampa each year.

This enchanting celebration of all things sweet typically consists of a who’s who in the Tampa Bay region baking scene. Spots from South Florida and Central Florida also tend to make appearances at the event. Dessert Wars is a celebration of the “foodie” lifestyle, featuring over 50 dessert vendors vying for the title of Dessert Champion. The event features a wide array of desserts ranging from cupcakes, cookies, ice cream, and doughnuts.

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cinnamon sugar covered donuts
The Churr’ All I Need Greek Donuts by Meli Greek Street Donuts

The best desserts in Florida

In 2020, the People’s Choice Award winner was The Dessert Spot by Toffee To Go. In 2021, Synergy Sweets, The Yard Milkshake Bar, Pudding Queen, Jeni’s Ice Cream, and Meli Greek Street Donuts took the top 5 spots on the judge’s list. In 2022, Meli Greek Street Donuts placed first, followed by Angelina Bakes, and Victoria’s Custom Desserts.

In 2023, Tampa’s Synergy Sweets even made a trip to the National Championship in Atlanta. We love seeing Tampa’s top bakers get showcased on a national scale.

colorful macarons arranged on a plate
Photo via Moonlit Macarons, one of the top Judge’s Choice winners in 2022

Celebrate the best sweets in Tampa during Dessert Wars

Dessert lovers in Tampa should be sure to hit up the Harry Waugh Dessert Room at Bern’s Steakhouse for Baked Alaska. Need desserts delivered to your door? Cookie Munchers is delivering cookies the size of hub caps near the University of South Florida. Hello Sweetness just recently opened its doors and it lives up to its name with amazing crepes on the menu.

Yelp put out its list of the top dessert spots in Tampa. On the hunt for gluten-free, vegan desserts? HaleLife Bakery just opened a new bistro in Carrollwood.

Visit the Dessert Wars website for updates on the event.

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