Oakland's Best Cupcakes [Updated 2025]

I've explored every corner of this vibrant city, sampling a dozen incredible cupcake shops along the way.

From classic flavors to innovative creations, Oakland's dessert scene has something for everyone.

Whether you crave rich chocolate, light vanilla, or adventurous seasonal specials, I've handpicked the top spots that stand out for their quality and creativity.

Join me on this sweet journey as we uncover the most delectable cupcakes Oakland has to offer, perfect for any occasion or just a treat to brighten your day!

Mariposa Baking Company

Highlights
100% Gluten Free Options
Variety of Delicious Pastries
Kid-Friendly Environment
Nice Atmosphere
Ample Parking Available

Nestled in the heart of Oakland, Mariposa Baking Company has quickly transformed into a sanctuary for gluten-free enthusiasts and cupcake lovers alike. Upon entering, I was immediately taken by the inviting atmosphere—the scent of freshly baked pastries wafted through the air, promising delightful treats.

Now, let’s talk about the cupcakes! Each flavor was a tantalizing surprise, cleverly combined to create a unique tasting experience. The chocolate ganache was decadently rich, while the vanilla bean burst with vibrant, creamy flavor. What truly stands out, though, is that all their delights are 100% gluten-free, making this a wonderful place for those who usually miss out on traditional baked goods.

Accompanied by my little ones, I appreciated the kid-friendly environment, which allowed us to indulge without worry. Plus, I was pleasantly surprised by the ample parking available, making our impromptu visit hassle-free.

Overall, Mariposa Baking Company is a gem in Oakland's dessert scene. If you're in the mood for a treat that’s as whimsical as it is delicious, this is the spot to satisfy your cupcake cravings! Deliciousness awaits!

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Crumble & Whisk

Highlights
Delicious cheesecake options
Flavor genius behind desserts
Chill atmosphere with music
Clean and welcoming environment
Exceptional customer service

Crumble & Whisk is a delightful gem tucked away in Oakland, offering an inviting atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. As I walked in, the soft music and the chill vibe enveloped me, setting the stage for what I hoped would be a cupcake revelation.

Their offerings are nothing short of genius — not just your typical cupcakes, but a range that includes delicious cheesecake options that truly stand out. The creativity behind their flavors is evident in each delightful bite. I indulged in the lemon raspberry cheesecake cupcake, and let me tell you, the balance of tart and sweet was executed flawlessly.

One aspect that I found particularly refreshing was the clean and welcoming environment. Everything sparkled, and it’s clear that they take pride in their presentation, just as much as their flavor. To top it all off, the exceptional customer service made my visit even more enjoyable; the staff is genuinely passionate about their craft.

If you’re wandering the streets of Oakland in search of a sweet escape, look no further than Crumble & Whisk — it’s a must-visit for cupcake lovers!

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Brown Butter Bakery

Highlights
Custom cakes for special events
Personalized, professional service
Delicious, not overly sweet
Attractive, artistic designs
Friendly and engaging staff

At Brown Butter Bakery, my taste buds danced in delight! This charming spot is more than just a bakery; it’s a treasure trove of cupcake goodness. The cupcakes here are not overly sweet, striking the perfect balance that makes each bite a heavenly experience. I was captivated by their attractive and artistic designs, which made it almost too difficult to choose just one.

Their extensive menu features some unique flavors, but the Brown Butter Vanilla caught my eye, and I’m so glad it did. The buttery richness paired with a delectable frosting was simply divine! What impressed me most was the personalized service; the staff went above and beyond to ensure I found the perfect cupcake, demonstrating their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Whether it’s for a special event or just a treat for yourself, Brown Butter Bakery offers custom cakes that are just as impressive. The overall vibe is friendly and engaging, making it a delightful place to indulge in sweet treats. If you’re searching for the best cupcakes in Oakland, Brown Butter Bakery is a must-try destination that will leave you with a smile!

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Angel Cakes

Highlights
Vegan and gluten-free options
Exciting new flavors
Kind and helpful staff
Custom cake expertise
Moist and delicious red velvet

Review of Angel Cakes

Nestled in the heart of Oakland, Angel Cakes is a whimsical haven for cupcake lovers—and I'm absolutely smitten! From the moment I walked in, the kind and helpful staff greeted me with warm smiles, making me feel right at home. Their enthusiasm for baking is palpable and infectious!

What really caught my eye were the exciting new flavors that took my taste buds on a delightful journey. I couldn’t resist trying their moist and decadent red velvet cupcake, complete with a luscious cream cheese frosting that felt like a joyful hug in each bite. To my delight, they also offer vegan and gluten-free options without sacrificing flavor, ensuring everyone can indulge in the magic of cake.

What sets Angel Cakes apart is their knack for creating personalized experiences. Their custom cake expertise means you can transform any celebration into a sweet, memorable occasion. If you’re on a cupcake quest in Oakland, don’t miss out on Angel Cakes, where culinary artistry meets the warmth of community. Each bite is a celebration of flavor that lingers delightfully on the palate!

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Sweet Adeline Bakeshop

Highlights
Best carrot cake in town
Moist and flavorful cupcakes
Charming local bakeshop
Lovely birthday cake options
Unique frosting combinations

Sweet Adeline Bakeshop has become my go-to spot for irresistibly delightful cupcakes in Oakland. As I stepped inside this charming local bakeshop, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked goods, instantly drawing me in like a bee to honey. The best carrot cake in town caught my eye, and I couldn't resist trying one of their signature carrot cake cupcakes. Each bite was a sumptuous explosion of moistness and flavor, beautifully complemented by their signature cream cheese frosting.

What I truly appreciate about Sweet Adeline is their commitment to unique frosting combinations, ranging from classic vanilla to adventurous lavender. My taste buds danced with joy as I indulged in their chocolate cupcake topped with a rich, chocolate ganache that felt like a velvety hug.

The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for celebrating special moments with their lovely birthday cake options. Whether you're a local or just passing through Oakland, Sweet Adeline Bakeshop promises an experience that marries comfort with culinary craftsmanship. It's not just a bakeshop; it's a cupcake paradise that begs for multiple visits! Trust me, one cupcake will never be enough.

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Cupcake Cove

Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Oakland, Cupcake Cove is a whimsical delight for any sweets lover. The moment I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly baked cupcakes enveloped me like a warm hug. I sampled their signature Salted Caramel, where the rich, buttery flavor melded perfectly with a hint of sea salt — simply divine! Each cupcake features a delightfully moist crumb and a frosting so dreamy it could make clouds jealous. Whether you’re a chocolate aficionado or a fruit fanatic, Cupcake Cove guarantees a delightful experience that will keep you coming back for more. A true gem!

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Cupcakin Bake Shop

Stepping into Cupcakin Bake Shop was like entering a wonderland of sweetness! Their vibrant cupcake display instantly caught my eye, and I couldn't resist the temptation. I savored the Red Velvet, which had just the right amount of moistness and cream cheese frosting—a heavenly match! The Salted Caramel option was pure indulgence, boasting a luscious swirl of rich flavors. Each bite felt like a delightful hug! With its warm ambiance and friendly service, Cupcakin is a must-visit for any cupcake enthusiast in Oakland. I left with a sugar high and a smile—definitely a spot I’ll return to!

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Gregory's Gourmet Desserts

What a delightful surprise! At Gregory's Gourmet Desserts, each cupcake is a little masterpiece. I sampled the Salted Caramel Velour – a perfect marriage of sweet and salty that danced on my taste buds. The cake was incredibly moist, while the frosting offered a heavenly creaminess. Oh, and the presentation? Stunning! Each cupcake looked like a work of art, inviting you to indulge at first sight. The cozy ambiance of the shop adds an extra layer of charm, making it a perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth. For a truly gourmet experience, Gregory's is a must-try in Oakland!

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James & the Giant Cupcake

Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Oakland, James & the Giant Cupcake is a whimsical haven for sugar enthusiasts. The moment I stepped inside, the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods enveloped me, igniting my taste buds. I savored their signature Chocolate Dream, a moist chocolate cake topped with velvety ganache that danced on my palate. The Salted Caramel Surprise was a glorious blend of sweet and salty, leaving me craving more. The atmosphere is equally enchanting, with colorful decor that makes you feel right at home. James & the Giant Cupcake is a true delight for any cupcake lover!

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Full Belly Bakery, LLC

At Full Belly Bakery, LLC, each cupcake feels like a little piece of joy! Their Red Velvet Delight is a towering masterpiece, perfectly moist with a cream cheese frosting that's sweet yet tangy. I also couldn't resist trying the Chocolate Hazelnut Dream, which was rich and indulgent, with a delightful crunch from the hazelnuts. The cozy atmosphere is just as enticing as the cupcakes themselves, making it a perfect spot to indulge your sweet tooth. For anyone visiting Oakland, I wholeheartedly recommend treating yourself—these cupcakes are an unforgettable culinary adventure you won't want to miss!

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Little Moon Bakehouse (Pre-order Only)

Visiting Little Moon Bakehouse felt like stepping into a dreamy confectionery paradise! Though they operate on a pre-order only basis, the anticipation was worth every moment. Their cupcakes are a delightful fusion of whimsical flavors and stunning presentations. I savored the lavender lemon, a perfectly balanced treat with a hint of floral essence and zesty brightness. The chocolate espresso was a chocolate lover’s fantasy, rich and decadent without being cloying. Each bite is like a small celebration! Whether you're planning a special event or just a well-deserved indulgence, these cupcakes are undeniably a must-try in Oakland!

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Sweet Bar Bakery

Tucked away on a charming street, Sweet Bar Bakery is a delightful gem that truly knows how to satisfy a sweet tooth. I savored their Salted Caramel Cupcake, which was rich, moist, and decadently drizzled with a luscious caramel sauce that danced on my palate. The vanilla bean frosting added a whimsical touch, making each bite a mini celebration. Not only do they use high-quality ingredients, but their artistry in presentation is stunning! If you’re searching for cupcake perfection in Oakland, look no further than Sweet Bar – they’ve perfected the craft of indulgence with every delightful creation.