The 5 Best Desserts Around Wheeling

From creamy, homemade ice cream to classic comfort pies and elegant catering creations, the Ohio Valley knows how to satisfy a sweet tooth. The Best of the Ohio Valley Readers' Choice 2025 recognizes these five top destinations for their exceptional desserts and treats.

Kirke's Homemade Ice Cream

Kirke's is a legendary destination for homemade ice cream, offering over 40 flavors that draw customers from all over the region. Known for unique and richly flavored scoops like Black Raspberry, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Cat Dog (vanilla with Oreos and cookie dough), Kirke's emphasizes quality and a rotating selection of seasonal flavors (like Pumpkin). Beyond cones and dishes, they offer Specialty Sundaes, Ice Cream Nachos made with waffle chips, and convenient half-gallons.

Fat Apple Bakery

The Fat Apple Bakery is a beloved spot specializing in freshly baked goods and classic American desserts. While they are renowned for a variety of pastries and treats, their strength lies in delivering high-quality, comforting items. Customers can find fresh pies (such as Lemon Meringue and Pumpkin), an array of pastries, pocket pies, and specialty cakes. Their selection caters to those looking for a traditional, scratch-made dessert experience.

Mehlman Cafeteria

Mehlman Cafeteria is a St. Clairsville institution where the desserts are just as famous as the homestyle savory meals. They are celebrated for serving up classic, homemade-style pies and cakes, often featuring a changing selection displayed in their traditional cafeteria line. Favorites cited by patrons include their delicious Pies, making the dessert section an essential final stop for any meal at this long-standing establishment.

Carrie's Catering

Carrie's Catering is recognized not just for its main course excellence but also for its decadent, customizable dessert options for events. As a top caterer, they offer a wide variety of sweets designed to impress large groups. Offerings include rich, fudgy Brownies, customizable Cakes and Cupcakes in various flavors (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry), Cobblers with a flaky biscuit crust, and creamy Cheesecake with various toppings, allowing hosts to build the perfect dessert table.

Little Annie's Sweets

Little Annie's Sweets is a locally cherished bakery known for its charming, small-town appeal and focus on classic, comforting baked goods. While operating in Belmont, Ohio, their reputation extends across the valley. They specialize in cookies, brownies, and custom cakes, often focusing on homemade quality that reminds patrons of "Grannie Annie's" baking. Their variety and attention to detail make them a favorite for special occasion orders and everyday indulgences.

Thanks, Gemini.