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Best Dessert Franchises for Sale: Costs and Top Brands
Looking for the best dessert franchises for sale? These concepts have become a popular investment option for entrepreneurs entering the food industry. Below, we’ll cover the top dessert franchise opportunities in the U.S. and what makes each one stand out.
Why Dessert Shop Franchises Appeal to Investors
Dessert franchises trade in indulgence. By specializing in irresistible treats and memorable experiences, they appeal to investors with a sweet tooth. Experiential concepts turn a dessert shop into a destination that drives repeat visits. River Street Sweets’ open-kitchen candy-making, where guests watch confections made on-site, is one example.
Dessert franchises cater to a wide audience and sometimes require lower initial investments than full-service restaurants, making them attractive to entrepreneurs starting out.
According to IMARC Group, the U.S. confectionery market reached USD 41.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 55.8 billion by 2034, a CAGR of 3.32% from 2026 to 2034. For those interested in frozen desserts, Grand View Research estimated the U.S. ice cream market at USD 21.64 billion in 2025, with growth to USD 30.00 billion by 2033 at a 4.2% CAGR.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Dessert Franchise
Before diving headfirst into the world of dessert franchising, it’s essential to consider several important aspects that separate the best dessert franchises from the rest:
- Brand reputation: Choose a franchise with strong brand presence and positive public perception.
- Initial investment: Understand the total investment required, including the cost to open an ice cream franchise. Factor in equipment, training, fees, and ongoing costs.
- Training and support: Look for franchises that offer in-depth, hands-on training and ongoing support.
- Market demand: Research the local market to verify demand for the desserts that the franchise offers.
- Available territory: A dessert franchise’s success often correlates with its location. Look for a franchise open to business in your desired area.
If you’re considering a candy concept, see our “How Much Does It Cost to Open a Candy Store?” guide for more details.
Top 6 Dessert Franchises for Sale in the USA
1. River Street Sweets®
River Street Sweets® is a celebrated candy brand known for handcrafted sweets and an unforgettable in-store experience. The team has been serving up smiles for over half a century, with a loyal customer base to prove it. Old-fashioned favorites like their World Famous Pralines® and Bear Claws® keep guests delighted year after year. Their menu of chocolates, candied nuts, homemade ice cream, and gelato adds variety with an old-world charm.
With roots in Savannah, Georgia, River Street Sweets® is enjoying an era of expansion and can’t wait to help eager franchisees Make Sweet Memories in their communities. Initial investment ranges from $419,000 to $844,000, with a $40,000 franchise fee. River Street Sweets®’ commitment to quality and tradition sets them apart. Guests can experience the joy of candycraft firsthand through the open kitchen concept. Check out the River Street Sweets franchise opportunity to learn more.
2. Cold Stone Creamery
Cold Stone Creamery is famous for customizable ice cream creations mixed on ice-cold countertops. Initial investment ranges from $57K to $627K depending on store format (traditional vs. nontraditional). An interactive experience and high-quality ingredients make Cold Stone a favorite among ice cream lovers. However, per Franchise Direct, Cold Stone’s franchise disclosure does not grant an exclusive territory, meaning the franchisor may open another location that competes with an existing store, even across the street.
3. Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen has a wide range of desserts, including iconic Blizzard® treats and soft-serve ice cream, plus fried chicken and burgers. Initial investment ranges from $1.5M to $2.54M. With a long history and strong brand recognition, Dairy Queen is a trusted name in dessert franchising. Beyond the high entry cost, Dairy Queen’s U.S. footprint is contracting: per QSR Magazine (May 2025), its U.S. store count fell by 42 in 2024, and its treat-focused division lost 101 locations over three years.
4. Cinnabon
Cinnabon is known for world-famous cinnamon rolls, plus muffins, brownies, and coffee. Initial investment ranges from $254K to $674K. The allure of freshly baked cinnamon rolls and strong branding makes Cinnabon a worthy investment option. However, Cinnabon’s mall-based model faces pressure: per Franchise Chatter‘s review of Cinnabon’s 2025 FDD, nine established mall bakeries permanently closed in fiscal 2024, and convenience/travel-center units averaged about $177,000 in sales versus about $682,000 for mall units.
5. Krispy Kreme
Krispy Kreme is renowned for fresh-off-the-conveyor glazed doughnuts, plus limited-time flavors and coffee. Initial investment ranges from $2M to $4.3M. Their iconic doughnuts and global footprint make Krispy Kreme a reliable choice. At the corporate level, Krispy Kreme has hit turbulence: per the company’s 2025 earnings release (reported via Business Wire), Krispy Kreme posted a $523.8 million GAAP net loss and ended its U.S. expansion partnership with McDonald’s in July 2025.
6. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
Menchie’s offers a self-serve frozen yogurt experience with many flavors and toppings, allowing customers to build their perfect dessert. Initial investment ranges from $300,000 to $350,000. The fun, interactive self-serve experience has made Menchie’s a hit frozen dessert franchise. For those exploring the best ice cream franchise opportunities, froyo concepts like Menchie’s are worth considering. However, the self-serve froyo segment has contracted for years: per the International Frozen Yogurt Association, Menchie’s ended 2024 with 316 locations, down roughly 37% from its peak of more than 500.
Personal Factors to Keep in Mind
Investing in a dessert franchise can be rewarding, but pay attention to these points:
- Ensure you have the financial resources to cover the initial investment, ongoing costs, and any liquid capital requirements.
- Carefully review the franchise disclosure document (FDD), which includes terms and conditions that affect your decision.
- Consider locations in your community with high visibility and foot traffic.
- Choose a franchise that aligns with your values and business goals.
Dessert Franchise Frequently Asked Questions
Are dessert franchises profitable?
Dessert franchises can be profitable because they often carry lower entry costs than full-service restaurants and cater to consistent consumer demand. Market data supports the opportunity: the U.S. confectionery market is projected to grow from $41.2 billion in 2025 to $55.8 billion by 2034, while the U.S. ice cream market is expected to reach $30.00 billion by 2033.
How much does it cost to open a dessert franchise?
Costs vary widely by concept. Cold Stone Creamery starts around $57K for nontraditional formats. Mid-range options like River Street Sweets® require $419,000 to $844,000 with a $40,000 franchise fee. Premium brands like Krispy Kreme can require $2M to $4.3M.
What types of dessert franchises can I buy?
The main concept types include candy and confectionery stores, ice cream and frozen yogurt shops, bakery and cinnamon roll franchises, and doughnut brands. Each has its own customer base and investment profile.
The Last Word on Dessert Franchises
Dessert franchises offer an exciting opportunity for sweet-minded entrepreneurs. By examining key factors and your personal circumstances, you can choose the right franchise to reach your goals. Whether you opt for the nostalgic charm of River Street Sweets® or another dessert franchise, the possibilities are endless! Contact us today to learn more about the River Street Sweets® franchise opportunity.
