Editors’ Choice
Pipe Dream Cupcakes, North Andover
Follow this mobile cupcake shop on Twitter to find out where it’s popped up—there’s no brick-and-mortar location where you can score these moist, delectable treats in a rotation of more than 100 flavors like Black Bottom Cheesecake, Coconut Lime, and Fluffernutter. Stop by early—the truck often sells out, sometimes before it makes all its appointed stops. Or save the hassle and order ahead—they even have kits so you can decorate your own. Flavors like Drumstick (patterned after the ice cream, with a tiny cone sticking out) and Twinkie draw inspiration from childhood treats, but you can also find more grown-up flavors (think chocolate with Himalayan sea salt and Machiatto). 978-397-6470, pipedreamcupcakes.com
Readers’ Choice
Cupcake City, Reading
For more than a decade, owner Karin DiNapoli has been pleasing the community with her gourmet treats, baked fresh daily. Flavors change, but standard standouts like Hostess, Oreo Cookie, and Lemon are always on offer. 137 Main St., Reading, 781-944-0400, cupcake-city.com