Here in Virginia, we don’t skimp out on delicious desserts. While the following desserts may seem familiar, trust us when we say that trying them here will be an experience of its own. With some local ingredients, traditional flair, and a dollop of whipped cream, what’s been cooking around here hasn’t needed much altering in years. And we think that’s pretty sweet. Listed below are 12 of the best desserts in Virginia, each of which will certainly satisfy your sweet tooth.

1. Blackberry Cobbler
Momo Go/flicker
Blackberry cobbler is proof that sometimes the simplest ingredients yield the tastiest results. Blackberries grow natively in some parts of the state, but their true home is in this mouthwatering recipe.
2. Pound Cake
Eliza Adam/flickr
My grandmother had a famous pound cake recipe, and we used to tease her for putting nearly a pound of butter in every batch. Just a sliver is all you need, but why limit yourself?
3. Pumpkin Pie
Jeffrey W./flickr
Virginians have been celebrating Thanksgiving since the 17th century. It just seems fitting that the pumpkin pie is so delectable here.
4. Buttermilk Chess Pie
flickr/Rebecca Wilson
A recipe for chess pie doesn't waste time with other ingredients besides sugar, flour, eggs, buttermilk, butter, and a little vanilla extract. Just one bite confirms that this pie doesn't need anything else.
5. Bread Pudding
Emily Carlin/flickr
Bread pudding is a traditional southern dessert, although many have not tried it. The name doesn't quite do service to all of the cinnamon goodness inside.
6. Ginger Shortbread Cookies
Steven Depolo/flickr
Shortbread doesn't always seem like the most exciting option, but just a dash of ginger can make for an irresistible cookie.

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7. Banana Pudding
Andy Ciordia/flickr
A comfort food of the dessert variety, banana pudding is a classic. Don't be surprised to find this item on the menu of a fancy local restaurant. Nilla wafers and all.
8. Hummingbird Cake
Crystal Hendrix Hirschorn/flickr
Hummingbird cake has a little bit of everything: cinnamon, pineapple, bananas, and pecans. Don't forget the frosting and some fruity topping for the full, delicious effect.
9. Jam Fritters
cherrypatter/flickr
These little pastry puffs have been enjoyed by Virginians ever since the colonial days.
10. Coffee Cake
Sarah R./flickr
Coffee cake is an acceptable dessert for breakfast. What's not to love?
11. Peanut Butter Chocolate Pie
Palmer House Photography/flickr
Peanuts have grown in Virginia for centuries, and arguably for the sole reason of putting them into unbelievably tasty pies.
12. Praline Ice Cream
Jessica and Lon Binder/flickr
This frozen treat isn't just for summer. And might we suggest how well it would pair with some of the other desserts.

Residents of Virginia have enjoyed these (and many more) desserts for years and have perfected them in their kitchens and restaurants. Was one of your favorite desserts left off of this list? Let us know in the comments below.

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best desserts in virginia

Jennifer Young | October 07, 2022

What's considered the most iconic Virginia dessert?

Virginia is known for having many delicious desserts. However, with that being said, one of them that truly stands out and has become quite iconic over the years is the buttermilk chess pie. This delicious pie has a custard filling that consists of sugar, butter, and eggs. It's then poured into a traditional butter pie crust. This classic pie has also evolved into a variety of other flavors such as chocolate chess, lemon chess, and more. If you've never had a slice of buttermilk chess pie, you don't know what you're missing. It's amazing!

What are three of the most popular cakes in Virginia?

As mentioned above, Virginia has many delicious desserts. If you have a sweet tooth craving, chances are you'll find something to satisfy it no matter where you're at in Virginia. Among these desserts are quite a few cakes. We've included three of Virginia's most popular cakes below.

1. Hummingbird Cake

Hummingbird cake is a fruity cake that consists of mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans. It's also covered in a cream cheese frosting. After finishing one slice of this delicious cake, you'll be asking for more.

2. Pound Cake

Most everyone has tried a slice of pound cake. In fact, most everyone has a family member with their very own recipe. This beloved cake consists of lots of butter, which makes it such a popular dessert. After all, the more butter the better, right?

3. Coffee Cake

Coffee cake is a delicious sponge cake that usually has a coffee flavor. It's also a popular cake that's often paired with coffee or tea. However, most people eat it whenever or however they wish, whether it be a dessert, a midday snack, etc.

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