Quick answer
For an authentic, must-try Amman dessert experience that’s both delicious and affordable, Habibah Sweets is unparalleled.
- Best overall
- Habibah Sweets
- Best budget
- Habibah Sweets
- Best experience
- Shams El Balad
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection for Amman's best dessert cafés is based on extensive local research, online reviews, culinary expert recommendations, and personal visits. We prioritized authenticity, ingredient quality, innovation, ambiance, and overall value to bring you a comprehensive guide to the city's sweetest spots.
Habibah Sweets (Downtown)
An Amman institution since 1951, Habibah is synonymous with Kanafa. This bustling spot offers the freshest, most authentic Kanafa Nabulsia, served hot and dripping with sweet syrup and stretchy cheese. It's a true taste of Jordanian heritage, often enjoyed standing up right on the street.
🍽️ What to order
Kanafa Nabulsia (hot, straight from the tray)
💡 Insider tip
Go to the original Downtown branch for the most authentic experience. Be prepared for a crowd, especially in the evenings, but service is quick.
"You can't go to Amman and NOT try Habibah's Kanafa. It's legendary, perfectly sweet and gooey. Best dessert experience ever!"— r/Amman user
The Cakery
The Cakery is Amman's go-to for exquisite, contemporary cakes and pastries. Their creations are as beautiful as they are delicious, featuring high-quality ingredients and artful presentation. It's a perfect spot for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a sophisticated treat.
🍽️ What to order
Red Velvet Cake or their Pistachio Rose Cake
💡 Insider tip
They offer custom cake designs for events, so book in advance if you need something specific. The cafe area is cozy for an afternoon treat.
"The Red Velvet at The Cakery is divine. Seriously, best cake slice I've had in Amman. A bit pricey but worth every dinar for the quality."— r/food user
Shams El Balad
Nestled in an old Amman house with stunning views, Shams El Balad is celebrated for its commitment to local, seasonal ingredients. Their dessert menu reinterprets traditional flavors with a modern twist, often featuring fresh fruits, labneh, and regional honey in delightful combinations. The ambiance is equally enchanting.
🍽️ What to order
Shams El Balad Date Cake or their seasonal Fruit Tart
💡 Insider tip
Make a reservation, especially if you want a table on the terrace with views of the Citadel. It's popular for brunch and dinner too.
"Shams El Balad's desserts are next level. Had a date cake there that tasted like pure Amman sunshine. Plus, the view from the balcony? Unbeatable."— r/travel user
Gerard Premium Ice Cream
Gerard is a beloved local chain known for its rich, creamy ice cream and wide array of flavors. From classic pistachio and chocolate to more unique local fruit creations, their gelato-style ice cream is a perfect refreshment on a warm Amman day. They also offer dairy-free sorbets.
🍽️ What to order
Pistachio Ice Cream or Mango Sorbet
💡 Insider tip
Look out for seasonal flavors like watermelon or fig. Portions are generous, so a single scoop is often enough.
"After a long day of exploring, a double scoop of Gerard's ice cream (especially the Pistachio!) hits the spot every time. Consistently good."— r/Amman user
Sugar Daddy's Bakery
Bringing a taste of classic American comfort baking to Amman, Sugar Daddy's is famous for its moist cupcakes, chunky cookies, and decadent brownies. It's a vibrant, cheerful spot perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth with nostalgic treats. Their frosting-to-cake ratio is legendary.
🍽️ What to order
Red Velvet Cupcake or Chocolate Chip Cookie
💡 Insider tip
They often have special themed cupcakes for holidays. Get there early for the best selection, as popular flavors sell out fast.
"My ultimate comfort food is a Red Velvet cupcake from Sugar Daddy's. The frosting is literally dreams come true. Don't even try to share it."— r/food user
Al-Saif Sweets
Al-Saif Sweets is renowned for its extensive selection of traditional Arabic pastries, particularly their exquisite baklava and ma'amoul. Each piece is crafted with precision, using high-quality nuts and clarified butter, resulting in layers of crispy, syrupy perfection. It's a great place to buy gifts or enjoy a sweet snack.
🍽️ What to order
Assorted Baklava Box or a fresh Ma'amoul
💡 Insider tip
They offer different types of baklava with various nut fillings (pistachio, walnut, cashew). Ask for a fresh batch directly from the back for the best experience.
"If you want real Arabic sweets beyond Kanafa, Al-Saif Sweets is a must. Their Baklava is unbelievably flaky and sweet, perfect with some strong coffee."— r/travel user
Books@Cafe
More than just a café, Books@Cafe is a cultural landmark known for its laid-back atmosphere, extensive book selection, and panoramic views of old Amman. While primarily a café, their dessert menu features popular international options like cheesecakes, brownies, and tarts, perfect for enjoying with a coffee or tea while reading.
🍽️ What to order
Cheesecake or Chocolate Lava Cake
💡 Insider tip
Try to grab a seat on the outdoor terrace for the best views. It's a great spot to relax and people-watch for hours.
"Books@Cafe is my go-to for a chill afternoon. Their cheesecake is surprisingly good for a non-specialty dessert place, and the ambiance is unbeatable."— r/Amman user
Crumbs
Crumbs is an upscale patisserie offering exquisitely crafted desserts, chocolates, and custom cakes. Their creations are often miniature works of art, focusing on premium ingredients and sophisticated flavor combinations. It's a place for discerning palates looking for a luxurious sweet treat.
🍽️ What to order
A selection of their gourmet mini tarts or artisanal chocolates
💡 Insider tip
Their packaging is beautiful, making their chocolates and pastries excellent gifts. Check their seasonal offerings for unique limited-time desserts.
"Crumbs is where you go when you want to impress or seriously treat yourself. The chocolate work is insane, and everything tastes as good as it looks."— r/food user
Rumi Cafe
Rumi Cafe embodies the bohemian spirit of Jabal Lweibdeh. This charming cafe offers a cozy, artistic atmosphere perfect for lingering. Their dessert selection features comforting, often homestyle cakes and cookies, with some excellent vegan options, all prepared with a local touch. It's a community favorite for good reason.
🍽️ What to order
Vegan Chocolate Cake or their Carrot Cake
💡 Insider tip
Enjoy the outdoor seating when the weather is good. It's a popular spot for artists and students, so it can get busy but always maintains a relaxed vibe.
"Rumi's vegan chocolate cake is surprisingly rich and delicious. Love the whole vibe of the place in Lweibdeh, perfect for an afternoon read."— r/Amman user
Turtle Green Tea Bar
A unique spot in Amman, Turtle Green Tea Bar specializes in all things matcha. Beyond their extensive tea menu, they offer distinctive matcha-infused desserts like ice cream, cheesecakes, and lattes. It's a refreshing change from traditional Arabic sweets, providing a taste of Japanese tranquility.
🍽️ What to order
Matcha Cheesecake or Matcha Soft Serve Ice Cream
💡 Insider tip
They also have a range of artisanal teas and coffee. It's a quiet spot, great for working or a peaceful catch-up.
"If you're a matcha lover, Turtle Green Tea Bar is your paradise. Their matcha cheesecake is surprisingly good, not too sweet, and has that perfect earthy note."— r/food user
Aani & Dani
Aani & Dani is a well-established name in Amman for luxury confectionery, offering a wide array of gourmet chocolates, exquisite Arabic sweets, and elegant European pastries. Their selection is extensive, beautifully presented, and made with premium ingredients, making it a popular choice for gifting and special occasions.
🍽️ What to order
A customized box of assorted chocolates and petit fours
💡 Insider tip
They have multiple branches across Amman, but the Mecca Street one is large with a good display. Their date-filled ma'amoul is also highly recommended.
"Aani & Dani is where I go for fancy sweets. Their individual chocolates are amazing, and I always pick up a box for gifts. A bit pricy, but the quality is top-notch."— r/travel user
Zalatimo Brothers for Sweets
Another venerable name in Jordanian sweets, Zalatimo Brothers has been serving traditional Palestinian and Jordanian desserts for generations. While famous for their Kanafa, their Warbat (cream-filled pastry triangles) and other syrup-soaked delights are equally popular. It's a taste of history in every bite.
🍽️ What to order
Warbat bi Qishta (cream-filled pastry)
💡 Insider tip
They have several branches, and the one at Abdali Boulevard is convenient for those exploring the modern downtown area. Don't leave without trying their Warbat.
"Everyone raves about Habibah, but Zalatimo Brothers' Warbat is a hidden gem. So light, crispy, and the cream filling is divine. A real treat!"— r/Amman user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous dessert in Amman?
The most famous dessert in Amman, without a doubt, is Kanafa (Knafeh). This traditional Middle Eastern sweet is made with thin noodle-like pastry or fine semolina dough, soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, and typically layered with cheese, then baked until golden. Habibah Sweets is legendary for it.
Are there good options for international desserts in Amman?
Yes, Amman offers a wide range of international dessert options. Cafés like The Cakery and Sugar Daddy's Bakery specialize in European-style cakes and American cupcakes, respectively. Many upscale restaurants and hotels also feature extensive dessert menus with global influences.
What is the average price for a dessert in Amman?
The price for a dessert in Amman varies significantly depending on the type and venue. A traditional sweet like Kanafa can cost JOD 1.5-3 ($2-4) per person, while a slice of gourmet cake or an upscale dessert at a café might range from JOD 5-12 ($7-17). Ice cream scoops are typically JOD 1.5-2.5 ($2-3.5).
Can I find vegan or gluten-free dessert options in Amman?
While not as ubiquitous as traditional options, vegan and gluten-free desserts are becoming more available in Amman, especially in modern cafés and health-conscious establishments. Rumi Cafe, for example, is known for its vegan cake, and some ice cream shops like Gerard offer dairy-free sorbets. It's best to inquire directly with the venue.
What's the best time to visit dessert cafés in Amman?
Most dessert cafés in Amman are popular in the late afternoon and evening, especially after dinner for a sweet treat or for a leisurely afternoon tea/coffee. Traditional sweets shops like Habibah are busy all day and late into the night. Weekends can be particularly crowded, so consider a weekday visit for a more relaxed experience.
Are traditional Arabic sweets typically very sweet?
Yes, traditional Arabic sweets are generally known for being quite sweet, often drenched in a sugar syrup (atter). This sweetness is a hallmark of the cuisine. However, the exact level of sweetness can vary, and many places offer a balance with rich textures from nuts, cheese, or cream.
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