Best holiday dessert spots

RALEIGH, N.C. — This is the time of the year when everyone is having parties – whether it is at work or a friend's house, you will usually be tasked with bringing something. I always choose dessert because it is typically pretty easy. If you want to wow your guests with minimal effort, just check out the list below of our favorite spots to order a dessert for pickup. 

Hayes Barton (Raleigh) – A great selection of cake and pies at this Five Points restaurant. This place is known for its amazing desserts and it really lives up to the hype. Just order at least a week ahead! 

Big Bundts (Durham) – The desserts here are homemade and delicious. I am a huge fan of the zucchini bundt cakes. They are also upping the ante this holiday season with a pumpkin bundt cake. You can catch them at their brick and mortar location near the New Hope shopping area or weekly at the Chapel Hill Farmers Market. You can also order online. 

Sugarland (Raleigh, Chapel Hill)– Known for their decadent cupcakes, they are also offering holiday sugar cookies and make a pretty mean cake! Just place your order early! 

Scratch (Durham) – With a holiday menu including Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie and Gingerbread cake made with Fullsteam beer, you really can't go wrong with an order from here during the holidays. Thanksgiving orders must be in by Nov. 24 and all December holidays you need to order 72 hours ahead of time. 

Once in a Blue Moon (Cary) and Upper Crust Bakery (Raleigh) – The Chocolate Encounter cake at Once in a Blue Moon is a must-try! They also have some great pies! Just order 72 hours ahead. We really love the mixed berry pie at Upper Crust, located in the Lafayette Village shopping area.

Whole Foods (various locations) – Their selection of cakes, pies and other desserts are always fresh. I got hooked on their pies when I used to work the weekend shift at WRAL. Anchor Ken Smith used to bring in fresh pies he picked up during his dinner break. So good!