When it comes to baked goods, Pennsylvania is one of the most underrated states in the country. From the warm aroma of freshly baked sourdough in Philadelphia to the delicate layers of buttery croissants in small-town Chester County, this state is a paradise for bread and pastry lovers. In 2025, many local bakeries are taking things to the next level with artisan techniques, high-quality ingredients, and a focus on community. Here are 15 of the best bakeries in Pennsylvania that you should definitely visit if you’re craving something freshly baked and unforgettable.
1. Mighty Bread Company – Philadelphia
If you love sourdough bread that’s crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, Mighty Bread Company in South Philadelphia should be your first stop. Known for its naturally leavened breads and rustic pastries, this bakery has earned a loyal following.
Their Rosemary Peppercorn Sourdough and Country White Loaf are some of the best in the city.
Everything is baked in small batches to ensure freshness.
They also serve excellent cookies, croissants, and hearty breakfast toasts.
- Tip: Arrive early in the morning because their sourdough loaves often sell out before noon!
2. Stock’s Bakery – Philadelphia
For nearly a century, Stock’s Bakery has been a Philly staple. Located in the Port Richmond neighborhood, this old-school bakery hasn’t changed much since the 1920s — and that’s exactly why people love it.
Their famous Pound Cake is legendary. Dense, buttery, and perfectly sweet, it’s a true Philadelphia classic.
Stock’s also makes delicious cookies, brownies, and other pastries that taste like childhood.
The bakery is family-owned and still uses many original recipes passed down through generations.
- Tip: Bring cash, and if you’re visiting during the holidays, call ahead — their cakes are in very high demand.
3. Termini Brothers Bakery – Philadelphia
Few bakeries in Pennsylvania have the rich history of Termini Brothers Bakery. Established in 1921, this Italian bakery is a Philadelphia icon known for its traditional cannoli and pastries.
Their Cannoli is world-famous — freshly filled with sweet ricotta cream right in front of you.
Try their Almond Horns, Raspberry Jelly Cookies, and Sfogliatelle for an authentic Italian dessert experience.
The bakery’s old-world charm makes it a must-visit stop for both locals and tourists.
- Tip: Visit their location inside the Reading Terminal Market if you want a taste of Philly’s bustling food scene along with your pastries.
4. Butterscotch Pastry Shop – Birchrunville
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Chester County, the Butterscotch Pastry Shop is a true hidden gem. Don’t be fooled by its small-town setting — this bakery offers world-class pastries that rival those from high-end city patisseries.
Their Almond Croissant is a masterpiece — perfectly flaky with just the right amount of sweetness.
You’ll also find Sticky Buns, Fruit Danishes, and Apple Turnovers that are baked fresh every morning.
Everything is made from scratch, and the presentation is as beautiful as the taste.
- Tip: Check their seasonal menu — they often feature special pastries made with locally sourced fruits and nuts.
5. Prantl’s Bakery – Pittsburgh
No list of Pennsylvania’s best bakeries would be complete without Prantl’s Bakery in Pittsburgh. Known nationwide for its signature Burnt Almond Torte, Prantl’s has become a symbol of Pittsburgh’s dessert scene.
The Burnt Almond Torte is buttery, nutty, and absolutely addictive. It’s even been called “the best cake in America” by some food critics.
Prantl’s also offers a variety of cookies, cupcakes, and breads — all baked daily with top-notch ingredients.
The bakery has several locations, making it convenient for anyone traveling across western Pennsylvania.
- Tip: If you’re visiting from out of town, Prantl’s ships nationwide — so you can order their torte online and have it delivered right to your door.
6. The Lancaster Sweet Shoppe – Lancaster
Nestled in the heart of Amish Country, the Lancaster Sweet Shoppe is a charming bakery and café known for its traditional handmade sweets and European-inspired pastries. Everything here is made in-house using locally sourced ingredients.
Famous for its Belgian-style waffles, cream-filled donuts, and cinnamon rolls.
Offers authentic Pennsylvania Dutch treats, including Shoofly Pie and Whoopie Pies.
The shop’s cozy, rustic vibe perfectly complements Lancaster’s historic downtown feel.
- Tip: Pair your pastry with their locally roasted coffee — and don’t skip the chocolate truffles from their in-house candy counter.
7. Beiler’s Bakery – Philadelphia (Reading Terminal Market)
If you’ve ever walked through Reading Terminal Market, you’ve probably smelled the mouthwatering scent of Beiler’s Bakery before you even saw it. This family-owned Amish bakery has been a Philly institution for decades, serving up some of the best doughnuts in the entire state.
Famous for its handmade yeast doughnuts, filled and frosted right in front of you.
Classic flavors like apple fritter, maple bacon, and vanilla cream are always crowd-pleasers.
The bakery uses time-honored Amish recipes passed down for generations.
- Tip: Lines can be long, especially on weekends — go early or visit on a weekday morning for a faster experience.
8. La Gourmandine Bakery – Pittsburgh
For lovers of French pastries, La Gourmandine Bakery is a slice of Paris right in Pittsburgh. Owned by a French couple, this bakery brings authentic European baking traditions to Western Pennsylvania.
The Butter Croissants and Pain au Chocolat are perfectly flaky and golden brown.
Their Tarts — especially the lemon and raspberry — are elegant and not overly sweet.
Everything is baked fresh daily with real butter and imported French ingredients.
- Tip: Grab a seat in their charming café and enjoy a pastry with a cappuccino — it’s one of the best brunch spots in Pittsburgh.
9. The Bake Shoppe – Ardmore
Located just outside of Philadelphia, The Bake Shoppe in Ardmore is a hidden suburban gem known for its home-style pastries and decadent cakes. It’s a local favorite for celebrations, casual desserts, and morning treats alike.
The Chocolate Mousse Cake and Carrot Cake are rich and flavorful.
Their Cupcakes and Raspberry Bars are perfect grab-and-go options.
They also make beautiful custom cakes for weddings and birthdays.
- Tip: If you’re planning a party, order ahead — their cakes are extremely popular during holidays and weekends.
10. La Colombe Bakery & Café – Philadelphia
Most people know La Colombe for its amazing coffee, but few realize how exceptional its in-house bakery is. Every Philadelphia location offers freshly baked pastries made from high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Their Croissants, Muffins, and Morning Buns are baked fresh each day.
The menu is seasonal — you might find pumpkin spice loafs in fall or berry danishes in summer.
Everything pairs perfectly with their signature draft lattes and espresso drinks.
- Tip: Visit their flagship café in Fishtown — it’s not only a bakery but also one of the most beautiful coffee spaces in the city.
11. Achenbach’s Pastries – Leola (Lancaster County)
Achenbach’s Pastries has been a Lancaster County favorite since 1954. This family-owned bakery is most famous for its Long Johns, which are large, soft, glazed doughnuts that have become a local tradition.
Their Long Johns are unlike anything else — fluffy, light, and generously frosted.
They also bake fresh breads, cakes, and sticky buns daily.
It’s one of the few bakeries in Pennsylvania where you can still watch the bakers at work.
- Tip: Visit early in the morning for the freshest pastries and a chance to chat with the friendly staff who’ve been serving the community for generations.
12. The Bake Shop of Brogue – Brogue, York County
If you love homemade bread and sweet rolls that taste like something your grandmother used to make, you’ll adore The Bake Shop of Brogue. Located in rural York County, this Amish bakery has built a loyal following for its simple, high-quality baked goods.
Cinnamon Rolls that melt in your mouth.
Fruit Pies made from scratch with seasonal fillings.
Honey Wheat Bread that’s soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for sandwiches.
- Tip: Check their Facebook page for updates on seasonal items — their pumpkin rolls in fall are legendary.
13. The Night Kitchen Bakery – Philadelphia (Chestnut Hill)
An artisan bakery that blends creativity with quality, The Night Kitchen Bakery is one of the most charming spots in Philadelphia. Founded in 1980, it’s known for both its breads and its stunning custom cakes.
Famous for their Carrot Cake, Chocolate Ganache Cake, and Quiche Lorraine.
Offers a cozy café space perfect for brunch or a quick pastry break.
Everything is baked fresh daily with natural ingredients — no shortcuts.
- Tip: Try their Olive Bread or Croissant Sandwiches for breakfast — they’re a local favorite.
14. Whipped Bake Shop – Philadelphia
For desserts that look as good as they taste, head to Whipped Bake Shop. This boutique bakery specializes in custom cakes and cookies that are almost too pretty to eat.
Known for their beautifully decorated Buttercream Cakes and Hand-Painted Cookies.
Each creation is made to order with attention to detail and artistry.
They’ve been featured in multiple wedding and food magazines for their cake designs.
- Tip: If you’re celebrating a special event, book your cake at least a few weeks in advance — they’re often booked solid during wedding season.
15. DeLuca’s Bakery – Hazleton (Luzerne County)
A hidden gem in northeastern Pennsylvania, DeLuca’s Bakery in Hazleton has been serving locals for over 60 years. Known for its old-school Italian pastries, this bakery is where tradition and flavor meet.
Try their Italian Cream Cake, Sfogliatelle, and Cannoli — all made using family recipes passed down through generations.
Their Breads and Dinner Rolls are also popular for family gatherings and holidays.
A true local institution with a loyal customer base.
- Tip: Visit during the holidays — their trays of assorted cookies and cream-filled pastries are a local tradition.
Final Thoughts
From Philadelphia to Lancaster to small towns like Brogue and Hazleton, Pennsylvania’s bakeries continue to shine in 2025. These spots combine time-tested family recipes with a passion for quality that keeps people coming back year after year. Whether you’re craving artisan breads, classic pastries, or stunning custom cakes, these 15 bakeries prove that Pennsylvania is one of the best states in the country for baked goods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which bakery is best for custom cakes in Pennsylvania?
Whipped Bake Shop and The Night Kitchen Bakery in Philadelphia are both excellent for artistic and personalized cakes.
2. What’s the most iconic bakery item in Pennsylvania?
Achenbach’s Long Johns are a statewide favorite — soft, sweet, and uniquely Pennsylvania Dutch.
3. Are there good small-town bakeries outside of Philadelphia?
Yes! The Bake Shop of Brogue and DeLuca’s Bakery are both beloved by their local communities.
4. Which bakery is best for breakfast pastries?
Mighty Bread Company, La Gourmandine, and The Night Kitchen Bakery are great for croissants and morning pastries.
5. Are these bakeries locally owned?
All 15 bakeries featured here are either family-run or locally operated — supporting them means supporting small Pennsylvania businesses.
