San Francisco's Best Carrot Cake [Updated 2025]

Over the past few months, I have tasted and reviewed twelve different carrot cakes throughout the city, seeking out that perfect combination of flavors and textures.

From moist, spiced batter to creamy frosting, my taste buds have taken on quite the adventure.

In this guide, I’ll share my favorites, as well as what makes each slice uniquely special.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, I promise there’s a slice here that will make your mouth water and your heart sing.

Arizmendi Bakery

Highlights
Worker-owned co-op
Freshly baked daily goods
Must-stop near Golden Gate Park
Chewy and delightful cookies
Great selection of baked items

Arizmendi Bakery is a delightful gem that beckons sweet-lovers near Golden Gate Park. As a worker-owned co-op, this bakery proudly serves up freshly baked goods that are both creative and delectable. On my visit, I had the pleasure of indulging in their renowned carrot cake, and let me tell you, it was an experience to savor!

The moistness of the cake was downright remarkable—each bite was a harmonious blend of warm spices and tender shreds of carrot that had me grinning from ear to ear. But what truly sets this cake apart is its creamy frosting, which strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and light. I found myself slathering on an extra layer, as if it were a guilty pleasure I simply could not resist.

Now, I might have gone in expecting carrot cake bliss, but the assortment of chewy cookies and other daily baked delights made it impossible to leave without trying a few more treats. If you're in the mood for scrumptious baked goods that spell comfort and joy, look no further than Arizmendi Bakery—it’s a place where every bite is a celebration!

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Cinderella Bakery & Cafe

Highlights
Amazing honey cake
Delicious perogi
Nice outdoor seating
Large portion sizes
Dark rye bread, improving daily

Review of Cinderella Bakery & Cafe's Carrot Cake

Nestled in the vibrant Mission District, Cinderella Bakery & Cafe is a delightful gastronomic surprise that offers much more than just a whimsical atmosphere. As I stepped inside, the charming decor and inviting aroma pulled me in, but I was there for one thing: the carrot cake.

Upon my first bite, I was greeted with an explosion of flavors. The cake was incredibly moist, with a perfect balance of spices that made it sing with warmth. The frosting—a luscious cream cheese blend—was rich without being overly sweet, elegantly complimenting the cake. It was the type of dessert that made me want to hoard my slice forever, savoring each bite like a treasured secret.

In addition to the cake, I couldn’t help but admire the establishment's cozy outdoor seating, which gives it that inviting charm perfect for sunny days. Their large portion sizes certainly don’t hurt either. If you find yourself wandering through SF, do treat yourself to a slice at Cinderella Bakery; this is not just a bakery, it’s a magical escape into the world of delightful culinary practices.

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Jane The Bakery

Highlights
Tasty baked goods
Diverse menu options
Excellent catering service
Cozy window seating
Local favorite for baked goods

Review of Jane The Bakery's Carrot Cake

When I stepped into Jane The Bakery, the aroma of freshly baked goods wrapped around me like a warm hug. Known for its tasty baked goods and local charm, it didn't take long for me to find their carrot cake, which I had heard so much about. After taking my first bite, I was greeted by the perfect balance of moistness and flavor, a true testament to the quality of their ingredients.

This slice of delight is not just a cake; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes. The spices danced harmoniously with the natural sweetness of the carrots, creating an experience that felt both comforting and exhilarating. The cream cheese frosting? Oh, it was the crowning glory—decadent and creamy, with a hint of tang that left me wanting more.

The cozy window seating offered the perfect spot for indulging while people-watching, adding a delightful touch to my visit. It’s easy to see why this bakery has become a local favorite for baked goods. If you haven’t tried the carrot cake at Jane The Bakery yet, I can assure you, it’s worthy of every calorie. Dive in—you won’t regret it!

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Jane / Cal-Mart

Highlights
Nice and moist carrot cake
Icing overly sweet
Located inside supermarket
Dry and heavy mini cupcakes
Not fresh baked items

Stepping into Jane / Cal-Mart feels a bit like stepping into a hidden gem nestled inside a bustling supermarket—a delightful surprise among the aisles! With every intention to uncover the best carrot cake in San Francisco, I couldn't resist trying their rendition.

At first glance, the moist cake promised a symphony of flavors, with its rustic charm and vibrant flecks of carrot peeking through. However, as I dug in, the sweetness of the icing caught me off guard—almost overpowering in comparison to the subtle earthy notes of the carrot.

While the goods showcase a delightful array, I must admit that the dry and heavy mini cupcakes left a bit of disappointment on my palate, hinting at a lack of freshness. It felt like a stark contrast to the moist cake experience.

Despite my mixed feelings, Jane / Cal-Mart is undeniably a quaint stop for those who fancy an indulgent treat while shopping. Just be prepared for a sugar rush, and if you’re anything like me, maybe consider sharing that rich slice of carrot cake. After all, great finds are always best enjoyed with friends!

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SusieCakes - Laurel Village

Highlights
Friendly and welcoming staff
Magical sweet experience
Generous portion sizes
Great selection of desserts
Addictive Celebration Cake

At SusieCakes - Laurel Village, I was immediately enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere, thanks to the friendly and welcoming staff who radiated enthusiasm. As I perused the menu, I knew my heart was set on the carrot cake, and oh, what a magical sweet experience awaited me!

Upon arrival, the cake's presentation was simply delightful—pillowy layers topped with the creamiest, dreamiest frosting. With each forkful, I was met with an explosion of flavors. The balance of spices, the unmistakable crunch of walnuts, and the tenderness of freshly grated carrots created a symphony of tastes that danced across my palate.

What truly set this dessert apart, though, was the sheer generosity of the portion sizes. One slice could easily be deemed a feast! To top it all off, SusieCakes offers an impressive selection of desserts that will leave any sweet tooth in a state of pure bliss.

In a delightful twist, the Addictive Celebration Cake almost stole some attention, but my heart remained firmly with the carrot cake. If you're in search of a truly exceptional treat, SusieCakes is a must-visit for any dessert enthusiast!

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Thorough Bread & Pastry

Highlights
Cozy outdoor seating
Hidden gem bakery
Affordable pastries
Perfectly buttery croissant
Solid almond frangipane

Thorough Bread & Pastry is a charming little bakery that stole my heart—and my taste buds! Nestled away from the bustling streets, it provides cozy outdoor seating where one can savor a well-deserved treat while soaking in the sunshine. As I ventured to explore their offerings, I was delighted to discover this hidden gem that specializes in delightful pastries at affordable prices.

Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the carrot cake. It’s moist, flavorful, and laden with texture—every bite is a harmonious balance of spiced warmth and rich cream cheese frosting. The cake boasts just the right amount of sweetness, allowing the natural earthiness of the carrots to shine through. Not to mention, the addition of nuts adds a delightful crunch that elevates the experience.

But don’t let me forget to mention their perfectly buttery croissants and solid almond frangipane—perfect companions to my coffee! Overall, if you're hunting for the best carrot cake in San Francisco, Thorough Bread & Pastry is an absolute must-try. It promises not only deliciousness but also a quaint atmosphere that beckons for a leisurely visit.

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Fillmore Bakeshop

Highlights
Special weekend croissant
Unique hazelnut cookies
Delicious white chocolate cranberry
Great value treats under $5

Review of Fillmore Bakeshop

During my quest to uncover the best carrot cake in San Francisco, I stumbled upon Fillmore Bakeshop, and oh, what a delightful find it proved to be! Right from the moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped by the warm, inviting scents of freshly baked goods. The cheerful ambiance set the stage for what would become a memorable pastry adventure.

I ventured to sample their carrot cake, and let me tell you—it’s more than just a slice of dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! The cake boasted a wonderfully moist texture, packed with just the right amount of spices to awaken the senses. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, with sweet strands of carrot perfectly mingling with crunchy walnuts—a heavenly combination!

What truly set Fillmore's offering apart was the generous slather of cream cheese frosting, luxuriously creamy and not overly sweet, rather just the way icing should be. Plus, their amazing selection of treats—like the unique hazelnut cookies and delicious white chocolate cranberry bars—means there's always something new to try!

For a wonderfully indulgent experience that won’t break the bank, Fillmore Bakeshop is a must-visit for every carrot cake lover in San Francisco!

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Butter&

Highlights
Immaculate cake aesthetics
Innovative flavor options
Quick and easy ordering process
Perfect for special occasions
Stress-free coordination

Review of Butter& Carrot Cake

When it comes to carrot cake, Butter& is a hidden gem that truly stole my heart. Entering their cozy space, I was immediately drawn to the immaculate cake aesthetics that looked almost too good to eat—almost! I opted for their signature carrot cake, and let me tell you, I was in for a treat. The cake was a delightful balance of spiced flavor and moist texture, a true testament to their craftsmanship.

What really stood out to me was their innovative flavor options. With subtle twists like cinnamon and a hint of maple, every bite felt like a celebratory feast. It's a cake that can easily elevate any special occasion, and I could picture it gracing the tables of birthdays and weddings alike.

Ordering was a breeze, making my experience that much sweeter. It's truly a stress-free process—perfect for those of us who thrive on convenience without sacrificing quality. Butter& offers a carrot cake that not only satisfies cravings but also leaves you dreaming of your next slice. If you're seeking the ultimate carrot cake adventure in San Francisco, look no further than Butter&!

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ONE65 Patisserie & Boutique

Highlights
Distinct flavor combinations
Friendly and attentive service
Gorgeous cake presentation
Exceptional quality of desserts
Cozy ambiance near Union Square

Review of ONE65 Patisserie & Boutique

When seeking the best carrot cake in San Francisco, I found myself enchanted by the delights of ONE65 Patisserie & Boutique. Nestled near Union Square, this charming spot is a treasure trove of pastries, but the carrot cake stole the show. From the moment I laid eyes on it, the gorgeous presentation had me captivated; the delicate layers adorned with creamy frosting looked like a work of art!

As I took my first bite, I was greeted with a delightful explosion of flavor. The cake struck a perfect balance—it was neither too sweet nor overwhelming, allowing the earthiness of the carrots to shine alongside hints of warm spices. The quality of the ingredients was evident; each bite felt indulgent yet satisfying. The attentive service added a cherry on top of my culinary adventure, making me feel truly welcome.

The cozy atmosphere of ONE65 further enhanced my enjoyment, allowing me to savor that slice of heaven in peace. If you’re a fan of carrot cake, you absolutely must try the one at ONE65. Trust me, it’s a slice of paradise you won’t want to miss!

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Noe Valley Bakery

At Noe Valley Bakery, I discovered a delightful version of carrot cake that dances on the palate. Each bite reveals a moist, tender crumb infused with irresistibly spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, while the generous chunks of walnuts add a pleasant crunch. The cream cheese frosting is the creamy crown atop this masterpiece, balancing sweetness with a tangy finish. It’s a slice of pure joy that left me feeling content and inspired. If you’re on the hunt for a memorable carrot cake, I highly recommend stopping by this charming bakery for a taste that's sure to satisfy!

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Schubert's Bakery

Schubert's Bakery is a hidden gem that has perfected the art of carrot cake! As I entered, the sweet aroma instantly whisked me into a world of indulgence. Their carrot cake boasts a moist, tender crumb, enriched with just the right amount of spices. The cream cheese frosting is a delightful balance of tangy and sweet, making each bite a true heavenly experience. I was particularly enchanted by the scattering of walnuts throughout, adding a delightful crunch. Overall, Schubert's serves a carrot cake that's not just dessert; it's a celebration. Don’t miss this slice of deliciousness when in San Francisco!

Noe Valley Bakery West Portal

Nestled in the charming West Portal neighborhood, Noe Valley Bakery serves a carrot cake that is simply divine! The moment I took a bite, I was enveloped in a symphony of flavors—each forkful revealed moist layers rich with spices and flecks of fresh carrot. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, it struck the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The texture was incredibly light, making it dangerously easy to savor more than one slice! If you're on the hunt for a carrot cake that delights the senses, this delightful bakery should be at the top of your list!