Seasonal sweets

SuzyBeez Cakez N Sweetz

Susan Cummings—or Chef Suzy—began her career as a baker about 11 years ago, but has been baking for friends and family nearly her entire life. Although services are provided year-round for any occasion, SuzyBeez Cakez N Sweetz sets aside various specials on cakes, pies and desserts every year for the holiday season. November specials include peanut butter and German chocolate brownies, apple turnovers, pecan pie macaroons and miniature pumpkin pies. The shop has even designated Nov. 21 as “Gingerbread Day.” Traditional offerings available all year include old fashioned chocolate and vanilla, red velvet, strawberry and Italian cream cake. Services include dine-in, take-out and delivery.

12914 FM 1960 W., Cypress. 281-807-5777, www.suzybeez.com

Ooh La La

Nominated for “Favorite Sweets” in 2012 by the Houston Culinary Awards, the Ooh La La dessert boutique is one of Katy’s top options for those looking to get a taste of the finer things when it comes to the world of pastries. Ooh La La differs from other bakeries on the list by resembling conventional restaurants and encouraging its customers to take a seat after they order. The Katy location even has wi-fi. The menu is a list of bakery classics, developed by owner and classically trained pastry chef Vanessa O’Donnell, as well a special seasonal offerings, including pecan and pumpkin pies, as well as pumpkin spice cupcakes and Christmas cookies.

23920 Westheimer Parkway, Katy. 281-391-2253, www.oohlalasweets.com

Double P Bakery

With four distinct flavors featured every day of the week, Double P Bakery creates cakes, cookies and cupcakes ranging from mini to jumbo for its customers either individually or in bulk. For the holidays, these creations will be specially decorated with seasonal designs and flavors including cake pops designed to look like Christmas ornaments and decorated sugar cookies. There are several flavors available everyday such as chocolate, red velvet, carrot, strawberry swirl and plain vanilla.

6531 FM 1488, Magnolia. 281-259-5833, www.doublepbakery.com

The Woodlands Gourmet Bakery and Cafe

Since 2009, Chef Ifel Costa has been serving distinctive food to The Woodlands from recipes picked up from around the world. Specializing in French cuisine, Costa's menu ranges from omelets to croissant sandwiches to his renowned crepes. Apart from his elaborate menu, Costa prepares special desserts for his guests including tarts and specially made macaroons in preparation for the holidays.

9950 Woodlands Parkway., Ste. 400, The Woodlands. 281-298-9684, www.thewoodlandsgourmetbakery.com

The Ranch Bakery

This local bakery serves up kolaches, muffins and scones throughout the year, but during the holidays one of The Ranch Bakery’s pies may be the best bet. The business offers pumpkin pecan praline pie, bourbon chocolate pecan pie, pumpkin pie and Texas pecan pie. Customers can also purchase a full Thanksgiving dinner through The Ranch Bakery, which offers dishes and sides such as a Texas Pecan Smoked turkey, cornbread dressing, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes and rolls.

5431 Barker Cypress Road, Ste. 500, Houston. 713-589-8797, www.ranchbakery.com

Sweet Magnolia’s Bakery

The slogan at Sweet Magnolia’s Bakery in Tomball is “There is no cake that we can’t make.” Patrons can customize every aspect of their cakes from the shape and image to the filling. In addition to cakes, bakers whip up holiday pies, cookies and breads, and even offer specialty casseroles and salads. On top of being a bakery, Sweet Magnolia’s also offers cooking supplies and hosts cooking and food classes specifically designed to teach children the basics of baking.

25435 FM 2978, Ste. 115, Tomball. 281-803-5252, www.sweetmagnoliazbakery.biz

Celebrations and Sweet Creations

The Magnolia bakery, which has been around since 2007, went from an unknown startup to a community staple with help from their wide selection of pies, cakes and cookies. Celebrations’ top sellers are probably its classic and gourmet cupcakes, which come in a variety of flavors such as marshmallow cream, snickerdoodle and several seasonal flavors for the holidays. The bakery recently expanded its line of goodies to include freshly baked breads and rolls. Treats can be personalized for special occasions and are sold both individually and wholesale.

7211 FM 1488, Magnolia. 281-252-6222, www.goticing.com

Kiss the Cook Cakes

This bakery provides one-of-a-kind cake decorations for weddings, graduations, birthdays and, of course, the holiday season. These made to order cakes showcase the diverse art of baking. Throughout the year, cake creations are made to look like wrapped gifts, graduation hats, buildings and even vehicles to highlight customer’s favorite pastimes and achievements. Some cake flavors include chocolate marble, red velvet, almond laced, carrot, Italian cream and German chocolate. Various cake fillings are also available such as  butter creme, mocha mousse, hazelnut and pumpkin spice. 25701 I-45, The Woodlands. 281-367-3663, www.kissthecookcake.com

Frosted Bakery

Frosted, one of the Houston area’s premiere cupcake venues, brought its storefront to Main Street Tomball in June. Owner Jen Rockey doesn’t just make a pretty cupcake though. The bakery offers a huge variety of cakes, gourmet cookies and special treats such as truffles, brownie pops and petit fours. Seasonal pies come in 25 flavors including strawberry rhubarb, banana cream and dutch apple. Pies are available through special order only and customers should call ahead for availability.

307 East Main St., Tomball. 281-550-7044, www.frostedbakeryonline.com