If you’re looking for a sweet treat in Salem, Oregon, you don’t have to look very far—there is a long list of local bakeries that offer everything from artisan cakes to fresh specialty breads (and everything in between). Whether you live in Salem or are just passing through, be sure to stop by these bakeries to experience some of Salem’s best baked goods.
Manna Bakery
Located in downtown Salem, Manna Bakery is a recent local favorite. Their rotating baking schedule means you’ll never get tired of their daily bread options, which include crowd favorites like olive rosemary, ancient grain, and sourdough challah. Beyond their bread, they also offer a variety of delicious pastries, cheesecakes, filled croissants, cookies, and more. If you’re looking for a fresh loaf or searching for a sweet treat, Manna has got you covered.
Dough Hook Bake Shop
Dough Hook Bake Shop is a local family-owned bakery with locations in Salem and Corvallis. Founded by Maria Guadalupe Alvarez, Dough Hook is known for their high-quality pastries and decadent donuts. Customer favorites include the Marionberry donut, the “Cruffin,” and the spinach and feta croissant. The bakery champions their family-oriented atmosphere and dedication to preserving traditional recipes, like the family’s concha recipe. You can also find a selection of their baked goods in the pastry case at Broadway Coffeehouse. Like they say, give them a try—you’ll get hooked.
Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes
Like the name suggests, Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes offers a variety of custom cakes, cupcakes, desserts, and sweet pastries. Known for her stunning cake designs and high-quality ingredients, Michelle Ashley has won numerous awards including Best Cupcake and Best Bakery in Best of the Willamette Valley. If you have a sweet tooth craving you just can’t wait to satiate, you can also order a selection of their treats on DoorDash!
The Little Cannoli
The Little Cannoli is dedicated to providing old-fashioned style pastries and desserts. Owner and pastry chef Tim Goods emphasizes quality by preparing and baking everything by hand and using the finest ingredients. Known for their handmade cannoli, eclairs, napoleons, and cream-filled croissants, they also offer a variety of cookies, cakes, pies, and focaccia. Customers can enjoy their tasty treats in the cozy bistro with espresso, Italian sodas, or tea.
Gerry Frank’s Konditorei
Famous for their decadent cakes and cheesecakes, Gerry Frank’s Konditorei has been a go-to for Salem sweet tooths since 1982. In addition to cakes, this Salem staple also offers various pastries, drink specials, and an appetizing lunch menu in the cafe. Whether you’re craving cake by the slice or would like to order a cake for a special occasion, Gerry Frank’s Konditorei delivers with exceptional quality and taste.
Sweetly Baked
Sweetly Baked is as sweet as the name suggests and specializes in custom treats for any occasion—including cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and other specialty desserts. In addition to their baked goods, they have a café menu with breakfast, lunch, and coffee items, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal or little treat. They also offer cake decorating classes!
Sewell Sweets Artisan Cakes
Sewell Sweets Artisan Cakes in downtown Salem is run by husband-and-wife duo Chad and Cat Sewell, fulfilling Cat’s dream of opening a storefront cake shop. Known for their signature artisan cakes, they offer over 40 cake flavors for custom orders. In addition to their beautiful custom creations, they have a daily selection of baby cakes, tarts, dessert cups, cookies, and more.
Wicked Sweet Bakery
Wicked Sweet Bakery, located in Keizer, is a small, family-owned bakery known for their rich variety of baked goods—including cakes, cupcakes, doughnuts, doughnut holes, brownies, and scones. You won’t want to miss out on their mouthwatering doughnuts, which are filled to order with assorted fillings and jams. Their commitment to quality, creativity, and customer service makes Wicked Sweet a local favorite.
Each of these local bakeries brings something unique to the table. Which bakery are you headed to first?
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Oct. 12th, 2021