Sure, cookies and cupcakes have received their time in the spotlight, but it’s time to shed some light on the brownie. The dessert we all loved in our lunchboxes as children is celebrated with its own National Brownie Day on December 8. Here are five places in Northern Virginia to grab one.
Bakeshop
Brownie enthusiasts will adore this local bakery with two different options: a flourless chocolate version and a mint chocolate one perfect for the festive season. Bakeshop is truly a neighborhood bakery — it started in the kitchen of owner Justin’s mother’s house. It opened the doors to its Arlington outpost in the middle of a snowstorm in 2020. If you do stop by during on cold afternoon this month, make sure to grab a latte to go with your brownie for the perfect pairing. Locations in Arlington, Falls Church, and Georgetown
Village Sweet
Brownies are a must at this Arlington bakery owned by Dawn Hart. She started a custom iced sugar cookie business in 2006 called Monster Cookie Co. and through word-of-mouth, her company grew. Village Sweet was eventually born and brought tons of mouthwatering sweets with it. Sometimes the blondies (which are equally delicious) make their way onto the daily menu. Village Sweet updates its Instagram (@villagesweetbakery) with the daily menu or also welcomes a morning phone call if you want to know what is available that day. 5872 Washington Blvd., Arlington
Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe
Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe’s brownies are a ‘90s kid’s dream — topped with fondant icing and rainbow sprinkles reminiscent of Little Debbie’s Cosmic Brownies. Customers have their choice of either chocolate chip or plain. If you’d like to order mini brownies, keep in mind that they are ordered in multiples of four. If you’re planning on an office holiday party, Heidelberg’s brownie/cookie tray combo is the perfect chocolate fix. 2150 N. Culpeper St., Arlington
Buzz Bakeshop
Alexandria’s Buzz Bakeshop serves up brownies that are chewy, chocolatey delights with every bite. Pair them with a cup of local coffee from Swings Coffee, which is served at Buzz. If you’re looking for a full meal before indulging in your brownie, grab a slice of the quiche Lorraine or a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich to go, too. 901 Slaters Ln., Alexandria
Best Buns Bread Company
This neighborhood bakery is known for its hearth-baked breads and sweet treats. While the bakery offers breakfast sandwiches, a handful of lunch sandwich options, soups, salads, and tasty cupcakes, their brookie (a brownie/cookie hybrid), is a decadent end to your meal. Locations in Shirlington and Arlington
Feature image courtesy Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe.
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