Looking for dessert in Pasadena, MD? This year’s top three cover homemade ice cream on Mountain Road, a classic snowball on Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard, and Hawaiian-style shaved ice on Fort Smallwood Road.
Neighbors in the Best of Pasadena Facebook group selected The Daily Scoop, Kavern, and Magothy Ice Co as the 2026 top three for Best Dessert. Here is a closer look at each, including what they are known for and how the three stops differ.
1st place: The Daily Scoop
Best for: Homemade ice cream on Mountain Road
The Daily Scoop is at 3201 Mountain Road, Suite 109, a snug ice cream shop that the Real Pasadena listing describes as artisanal ice cream and other frozen treats in a cheerful room. The official site, dailyscoopicecream.biz, presents it as gourmet ice cream in Pasadena, and reviewers often mention creative, rotating flavors and a shop that can get busy on warm evenings. It is the first name to know if a scoop is the plan after dinner or a Mountain Road errand. Facebook is another place to see what is in the case.
Address: 3201 Mountain Rd #109, Pasadena, MD 21122
2nd place: Kavern
Best for: Snowballs and ice cream on Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard
Kavern is at 8370 Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard, Unit A, a longtime Pasadena stop for snowballs and ice cream. The Real Pasadena listing, which also appears under the name Kavern Snow Syrup, puts it plainly: this is the spot for a shaved-ice snowball or a scoop when a sweet tooth hits. Reviewers often praise smooth snowballs, generous syrup, and flavors such as egg custard, plus friendly counter service. If you are on the Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard side of town, between Pasadena and the Glen Burnie line, this is the 2026 dessert name to know.
Address: 8370 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd Unit A, Pasadena, MD 21122
3rd place: Magothy Ice Co
Best for: Hawaiian-style shaved ice on Fort Smallwood Road
Magothy Ice Co was at 8890 Fort Smallwood Road, a seasonal stand known for Hawaiian-style shaved ice rather than a classic Baltimore snowball. A Real Pasadena feature described a soft, fluffy ice in a wide range of flavors, and that Hawaiian approach is what made this Fort Smallwood stop feel different from the other two dessert winners. Update: Magothy Ice Co has since closed its doors, but neighbors voted it a 2026 favorite.
Address: 8890 Fort Smallwood Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122
Hours can change, so check with each shop before you head out.
Find more of Pasadena’s favorites
Have a local favorite to share? Join the Best of Pasadena Facebook group to discover more neighborhood recommendations and help choose the next winners.
Moving to Pasadena or looking for a home near your favorite dessert stop? James Bowerman, a Pasadena local since 1990, and Real Creative Group can help you find the right neighborhood fit. Call 410-971-8004 or visit realcreativegroup.com.