Dessert cafés go beyond sweets as market heads to $12.3b by 2034

The Middle East and Africa account for 8.4% of the global market.

The global dessert café market is estimated at $7.2b in 2025 and is forecast to reach $12.3b by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8%, according to a report by Market Intelo.

The report attributes the market's growth to increasing consumer interest in premium and artisanal desserts.

Millennials and Generation Z account for more than half of dessert café customers, with preferences for distinctive flavours, visually appealing products, and higher-quality ingredients.

Dessert cafés have also become social spaces, with customers typically spending between 60 and 90 minutes per visit, contributing to higher average spending.

The Middle East and Africa account for 8.4% of the global market, with activity concentrated in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa.

The report cites demand for premium desserts, including halal-certified offerings, as a factor supporting growth.

The region is projected to expand at a CAGR of 8.2% through 2034, supported by franchise expansion and government initiatives to encourage food and beverage businesses in Gulf countries.

Asia-Pacific is the largest regional market, valued at $2.75b and representing 38.2% of global revenue. The report links the region's position to the popularity of dessert café culture in South Korea, where chains such as Paris Baguette and Tous Les Jours have expanded widely.

North America is the second-largest market, accounting for 22.8% of global revenue. Demand is concentrated in major metropolitan areas, including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

The report notes continued expansion by bakery and dessert chains such as Magnolia Bakery, Milk Bar, and The Cheesecake Factory Bakery.

By product category, cakes and pastries are the largest segment, with an estimated market value of $2.34b, or 32.5% of total revenue. The segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% through 2034.

Ice cream and gelato account for $1.89b, representing 26.2% of the market. According to the report, gelato sales have grown at an average annual rate of 8.2% over the past three years.

The category is forecast to expand at a CAGR of 7.1% through 2034. The report also notes that Amorino Gelato operated more than 250 locations across 25 countries as of 2025.

Puddings and custards make up $1.42b, or 19.7% of global market revenue. This category includes products such as puddings, mousses, custard-based desserts, panna cotta, and tiramisu-style desserts.

The report projects the segment to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% through 2034.