Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: The Best Desserts in the UK Right Now
The UK’s food scene is buzzing with exciting innovations, especially in the world of burgers and desserts. As burgers continue to evolve, offering new and exciting flavours, it’s clear that the perfect burger is no longer just about the patty—it’s about creating an experience, and that experience often ends with a delicious dessert. From milkshakes to indulgent cakes, desserts are the perfect way to finish off your burger feast. Whether you’re at a local burger joint or a gourmet burger bar, there’s no shortage of sweet treats that’ll satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll explore the best desserts available right now in the UK, alongside a quick look at the top burgers that pair perfectly with them. Let’s dive into the world of satisfying your sweet tooth and the best burger spots to enjoy them.
Best Desserts in the UK Right Now
Desserts are a central part of the dining experience, and with the rise of modern burger joints offering a diverse array of sweet treats, there’s no shortage of delicious options. Here are some of the top desserts to try right now in the UK:
1. Slam Burger – Luton & Leicester: The Slamshake Chocolate
If you’re craving a burger, but you’re also looking for something indulgent to satisfy your sweet tooth, Slam Burger in Luton and Leicester offers the perfect combination. Their Slamshake Chocolate is a rich, creamy milkshake made with premium chocolate ice cream, topped with whipped cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce. It’s the ideal way to end a burger meal, especially when paired with their signature Piri Piri Smash Burger or Mexicano Smash.
What makes it stand out: Slam Burger’s milkshakes are made with the finest ingredients, giving you a thick and indulgent treat to complement their hearty burgers. The Slamshake Chocolate is particularly popular for its smooth, decadent texture.
2. The Dairy – London: Salted Caramel Cheesecake
For dessert lovers who appreciate the delicate balance of sweet and savoury, the Salted Caramel Cheesecake at The Dairy in London is a must-try. This rich cheesecake has a velvety texture and is topped with a salted caramel sauce that enhances the sweetness without overpowering it. It’s a modern twist on a classic dessert.
What makes it stand out: The creamy cheesecake paired with the light salted caramel sauce creates a perfectly balanced dessert. It’s not too sweet, making it a great option for those who prefer a more refined dessert experience.
3. Patty & Bun – London: The Nutella Burger
Known for their gourmet burgers, Patty & Bun in London takes dessert to the next level with their Nutella Burger. This sweet treat features a soft brioche bun filled with Nutella, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and a drizzle of caramel. It’s the perfect mix of hot and cold, creating a mouth-watering contrast that will leave you craving more.
What makes it stand out: Combining the warmth of a freshly toasted brioche bun with the cold, smooth texture of ice cream makes this dessert both comforting and indulgent. The Nutella filling adds that extra level of sweetness that complements the richness of the burger.
4. Shake Shack – UK & International: Shack Attack Sundae
Shake Shack has become a well-known name for its burgers, but their Shack Attack Sundae is just as popular. This dessert features vanilla custard topped with fudge sauce, chocolate chunks, and whipped cream. It’s a decadent treat that complements the ShackBurger perfectly.
What makes it stand out: The combination of rich, creamy custard and crunchy chocolate chunks is the perfect way to balance the freshness of a ShackBurger. It’s simple yet indulgent, making it a favourite among Shake Shack patrons.
5. Melt Room – London: The Chocolate and Hazelnut Toastie
For something a little different, Melt Room in London offers the Chocolate and Hazelnut Toastie—a unique take on dessert. This dessert features a warm, toasted sandwich filled with rich chocolate spread and crunchy hazelnuts. It’s a perfect sweet treat for those who love a combination of textures.
What makes it stand out: The contrast between the crispy, warm toast and the gooey, rich chocolate filling makes for an irresistibly indulgent dessert. It’s the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers.
Best Burgers to Pair with Desserts
Now that we’ve explored some of the best desserts in the UK, let’s take a look at some of the top burgers that pair perfectly with these indulgent treats:
1. Slam Burger – Luton & Leicester: Piri Piri Smash Burger
The Piri Piri Smash Burger at Slam Burger is one of their most popular options. The spicy kick of the piri piri sauce complements the sweetness of their Slamshake Chocolate perfectly, making it the ultimate combo for those who love a bit of heat with their dessert.
2. The Burger Lab – New York: Build-Your-Own Burger
If you’re after flexibility, The Burger Lab allows you to build your own burger. Choose from a wide selection of toppings, including premium meats and vegan options, to pair with a dessert like the Salted Caramel Cheesecake from The Dairy for a well-rounded meal.
3. Patty & Bun – London: Ari Gold Cheeseburger
Patty & Bun’s Ari Gold Cheeseburger is a classic. It features a juicy beef patty topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and their signature Ari Gold sauce. Pairing it with the Nutella Burger makes for the ultimate indulgent experience.
4. Shake Shack – UK & International: ShackBurger
The ShackBurger is the star of Shake Shack’s menu. Its simplicity—featuring a tender beef patty, fresh lettuce, and tomatoes—makes it the perfect companion for their Shack Attack Sundae, providing a balanced experience of savoury and sweet.
FAQs About Desserts and Burgers
Q: What’s the best dessert to pair with a burger?
The best dessert to pair with a burger depends on your preferences. For those who enjoy a rich, decadent treat, a milkshake like the Slamshake Chocolate or a Nutella Burger is an excellent option. For a lighter finish, a salted caramel cheesecake offers a great balance.
Q: Can I find plant-based desserts at burger joints?
Yes! Many burger joints now offer plant-based options, including vegan milkshakes, dairy-free ice creams, and plant-based desserts. Always check with the restaurant’s menu for specific options.
Q: How do I customise my burger to pair better with dessert?
If you’re looking for a sweet contrast, consider choosing a burger with tangy sauces or spicy elements (like piri piri or BBQ) to balance out a rich dessert. Burgers with simpler ingredients, like the ShackBurger, can also pair well with a variety of sweet treats.
Q: What makes the perfect dessert to follow a burger?
The perfect dessert complements the burger’s flavours. If you’ve had a spicy or rich burger, something like a creamy milkshake or a light cheesecake balances the meal. If your burger was simpler, you might opt for a more indulgent dessert like a Nutella burger.
In conclusion, the UK’s burger and dessert scene in 2026 offers something for everyone. From innovative burger creations to indulgent desserts that are designed to satisfy your sweet tooth, there’s no shortage of exciting options. Whether you’re enjoying a Piri Piri Smash Burger paired with a Slamshake Chocolate, or ending your meal with a Shack Attack Sundae, these combos are sure to make your dining experience one to remember.
