Got a sweet tooth? There is no better place than New Mexico to indulge!
We have some of the most decadent and unique desserts that are sure to end your meal on a high note. To satisfy your sweet tooth we’ve compiled a collection of sweet dishes from around the state. How many have you enjoyed on this list?
Kakawa Chocolate House, Santa Fe
All of the chocolates at this wonderful little shop are simply divine. But for us, the elixirs are the standout. They are indescribably delicious and what makes this shop famous. Go on a beautiful fall or winter day and enjoy the deep, rich drinking chocolates based on ancient recipes. We love the Chili Elixir because it adds a beautiful and unique flavor but if this is your first time make sure to ask for samples. By the time you leave you will be so hooked, you’ll have to take a doggie bag home.
Cherry Ristra Ice Cream from Taos Cow, Taos
This local joint, just minutes away from Taos Ski Valley, serves up downright delicious ice cream with a bit of Southwest flair. Taos Cow's ice cream is so good, fans across the West Coast come flocking to their doors or taking large orders. You really can’t go wrong in the way of flavors, but we highly recommend the Cherry Rista. It’s a luscious cherry ice cream with chunks of rich dark chocolate and piñon nuts for that Southwest twist.
Green Chile Apple Pie from Tina’s Café, Ruidoso
There is something about the smoky, spicy combination of green chile mixed with the crisp sweetness of apples that really gets us going. Add to it a perfectly buttery pastry crust filled with a gooey caramel sauce to cut the heat and you have the perfection that is the Red Chile Pecan Pie from Tina’s Café. Don’t miss out on this homemade slice of heaven.
Butterscotch Budino from Farina Pizzeria, Albuquerque
Farina is famous for its word-fire pizzas. But to us, it also stands out for this unbelievable dessert. Caramel, sea salt, and whipped cream. Need we say more?
Coconut Cream Pie from the Pie-O-Neer, Pie Town
When a town is bold enough to call themselves “Pie Town” you know the pie is delicious. And we promise you, The Pie-O-Neer lives up to its name. This local gem is a bit off-the-beaten-path but if you are a pie lover, it’s worth the trip. The coconut cream pie is out of the world – it even won “Best Pie in the West” from Sunset magazine.
Pistachio Brittle from Heart of the Desert, Alamogordo
This is our kind of place – dessert pistachios and wine, a perfect pairing. We love getting their light, buttery pistachio brittle, though it doesn’t last long! They also have a great wine selection and plenty of novelty items if you are stopping through and looking for gifts. A great must-stop if you are in the area.
Chocolate Croissants from The Chocolate Maven Bakery & Café, Santa Fe
The Chocolate Maven Bakery & Café is a lesser known, hidden gem but one of our favorites. If you’re in Santa Fe, this spot is worth a visit. All of the baked goods are delicious, but we are particularly fond of the chocolate croissants. Delicious simplicity in every bite.
Biscochitos from Golden Crown Panderia, Albuquerque
There is so much to love about this spot. They serve local beer, great food, and give each customer a free biscochito – our favorite part of the experience. They’ve even appeared on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
“Pie of the Day” from Passion Pie Café, Truth or Consequences
This adorable community hangout serves up amazing baked goods and coffee in a neat little town. Go for lunch but stay for pie. Order a slice of their daily selection – no matter the flavor, you will not be disappointed.
“Breaking Bad” Candy from The Candy Lady, Albuquerque
The Candy Lady has been a New Mexico tradition for more than 30 years but exploded in fame from the Breaking Bad series after she was approached early in the series to develop a prop for the hit show. Her Breaking Bad Blue Ice Candy is still available and if you’re a fan of the show or just like rock candy, this is a great little spot to check out.
Long Johns (AKA Chocolate Eclairs) from Charlie’s Bakery, Las Vegas
This local favorite is always an unforgettable treat. They have been serving up incredible homemade long johns (aka chocolate eclairs) for more than 20 years. These pastries are over 10 inches long, filled and covered with pure deliciousness, giving new meaning to their namesake. If you’re just driving through or staying in the area, put this on your must-stop list.
Find your sweet spot
If you wait until Valentine’s Day to give your sweetheart or yourself the gift of chocolate, you are missing out on 364 days of experiencing one of life’s greatest pleasures.
That’s especially true in New Mexico, where a small group of artisanal chocolatiers creatively and passionately ply their trade. Some celebrate chocolate’s Mesoamerican roots (archaeologists have traced chocolate use back 1,000 years at Chaco Canyon); others draw inspiration from the great European chocolate masters or local New Mexico produce, such as chile and piñon. The common ground they all share is devotion to their craft and the daily satisfaction of putting a smile on their customers’ faces.