It’s been a while since I did one of these, and for the big comeback (a bit dramatic, I know), it felt fitting that it should be centered around dessert.

2024 has been an incredible foodie year and I am so grateful. I have literally had some of the best desserts this year and while the official top spot goes to a dessert I devoured on holiday, this piece is focused on Oxford and London, so places you can all get to very easily!

PS: These are not in order- that would be too much pressure!

Let’s kick off with this STUNNING chocolate delice with muscovado ice cream from The Killingworth Castle.

This is genuinely a chocolate lover’s dream.

It lives in my head rent-free, and I would eat it every day if I could. The smooth, decadent ganache was both rich and light. It was perfectly complimented by the crispy caramel top. The muscovado ice cream added that fresh aspect and helped balance out the richness. Simply lovely (a reference for any F1 fans)!

Swiftly on to this dreamy cookie dough choux bun from Blondie’s Kitchen.

Filled with cookie dough and fresh chantilly cream, I could not resist trying this choux bun at Taste of London this year. Yes, I did feel sick after eating the whole thing and no, I do not regret it. The milk chocolate was just so dreamy. Blondie’s Kitchen never disappoints! I make it a point to get one of their cookies anytime I am in London- we all need a little treat.

I thought I would wrap up with something fruity and refreshing, but unfortunately, that’s just not me. This marmalade glazed chocolate croissant butter pudding from Treadwell at The Store was a thing of beauty.

Honestly, I was not expecting to love this as much as I did, but it’s the perfect autumn dessert. The tangy orange from the marmalade balanced out the chocolate element and the chocolate crumb added that extra layer of texture. Served warm with the ice cream to top it off- it was beautiful.

Alright, enough dessert talk, let us know if you try any of these and what you think!

Happy holidays everyone (it’s not too early to say that, right?!)

Nicola’s Top 3 will be back in 2025 for more incredible eats.