Sometimes we just want a little sweet treat, but the old bag of Haribos lying in our cupboard doesn’t quite do the trick. Puddings and desserts are an area arguably neglected by London’s foodie scene, but there are many great spots serving up sweet treats all over the capital. We’ve rounded up the best puddings and indulgent treats that the city has to offer – from doughnuts to cheesecake – so that you can make a meal out of dessert.

You’re going to have to accept that there’s no way you’ll look elegant or skilful digging into one of Chin Chin’s insanely indulgent treats.

Whether it’s their signature Hot Chocolate topped with an immense cloud of gooey marshmallow fluff, or a scoop of ice cream topped with an array of ambitious toppings ranging from bee pollen honeycomb to hazelnut sand, fully committing is the only way to tackle a Chin Chin dessert.

Possibly the best doughnuts in London. Crosstown started as a single market stall back in 2014, and now has sixteen locations serving up fresh, handmade doughnuts.

Flavours and fillings change seasonally, but highlights include the mouth-watering Cinnamon Scroll (think a cinnamon bun, but the dough is doughnut), indulgent Chocolate Truffle and a very American Apple Pie doughnut, vegan dough filled with apple compote and topped with vanilla icing and pie crust crumble – a limited edition Independence Day special. A must-try spot.

If you’re not feeling like ice cream – or if the weather’s not feeling summery – then you might be interested in trying something a little warmer, courtesy of Humble Crumble.

Whether it’s a classic apple crumble or a chilled Iced Berry crumble, and whether you want to top it with vanilla custard or torched meringue, Humble Crumble is the place to go for a delicious pudding, done classically or with a twist.

A permanent fixture on many a best-of desserts list, Cutter and Squidge currently has all its stores closed due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, but has provided an extensive menu for home deliveries that means fans can continue to get their dessert fix.

We recommend one of their indulgent brownie boxes, which also make great gifts. Or for a real treat at home, try their Afternoon Tea Delivery, which features four scones with clotted cream and jam, a selection of brownies and lemon drizzle cakes, and even tea! Guaranteed to bring a smile when it lands on your doorstep.

Now for something a little different. Bao – fresh, steamed buns originating in China, filled with delicious savoury fillings like pork confit or fried chicken – have been on London’s foodie scene for a while now, but it’s the sweet versions of these buns that have us excited.

Bao London’s menu features mouth-watering options, like bao stuffed with Fried Horlicks Ice Cream, or Milk Tea Ice Cream bao depending on location. Try also their Peanut Milk to top it off. These buns are sweet, soft, indulgent – what more could you want?

If it’s cupcakes you’re after, head on up to Crumbs & Doilies. Flavours on offer vary, but have featured the sumptuous red velvet cupcake, moreish salted caramel and even Jammy Dodger, for a real nostalgic treat.

Alternatively, the cookies are incredible; thick, New York style, chunky – the humble chocolate chip cookie done very, very well. Swing by their Soho store, or order a box to enjoy at home. We seriously recommend.

If you’re a cheesecake fan, then you’re going to like this one. Whipped London is the place to go for all kinds of cheesecakes, from classic vanilla New York style to mango, coconut and fresh lime.

Creamy, sweet and moreish, these cheesecakes are seriously good. Also serving chunky cookies, this spot serves up treats that are incredibly indulgent, and incredibly delicious. Their Covent Garden store is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.

A family business founded in 2004, Primrose Bakery is the place to go for cakes and cupcakes that are as delicious as they are beautifully decorated.

Staple flavours feature all the classics, from Red Velvet to Carrot, and the specials vary daily, but include Lemon Meringue, Cookie Dough and Apple Crumble.