These Maryland Bakeries Serve Pastries So Good They’re Worth Every Detour
Maryland knows how to do baked goods right. I’ve stopped into plenty of bakeries across the state, and each one seems to have something that keeps people coming back, fresh bread still warm from the oven, pastries that flake just right, or cakes that make any day feel like a celebration.
There’s something special about walking in and smelling that mix of sugar, butter, and coffee first thing in the morning.
If you ever find yourself in Maryland with a craving for something sweet or fresh, these bakeries are worth the extra drive.
1. Woodmoor Pastry Shop, Silver Spring
This family-owned bakery has been around since 1948, and they’ve kept things simple. Fresh breads, cookies, and cakes line the shelves every morning. The smell alone will pull you in from the parking lot.
Everything is made from scratch, and you can taste the difference. Their fruit tarts are especially popular, with buttery crusts that crumble just right. Locals come here for birthday cakes and holiday treats, but honestly, any day is a good day to stop by.
2. Pâtisserie Poupon, Baltimore
Walking into this place feels like stepping into a small Parisian bakery. The croissants are light, flaky, and just about perfect. They also make macarons in flavors that change with the seasons.
The owners trained in France, and it shows in every detail. You’ll find traditional French pastries here, not trendy versions. Their chocolate eclairs have a rich custard filling that’s never too sweet. If you want authentic French baking, this is your spot.
3. Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop, Baltimore
Cannoli lovers, this is where you need to be. Vaccaro’s has been serving Little Italy since 1956, and their recipes haven’t changed much. The ricotta filling is creamy and not overly sugary, just how it should be.
They also make incredible tiramisu and rum cake. The atmosphere is old-school Italian, with photos on the walls and a case full of colorful pastries. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to try one of everything.
4. Dangerously Delicious Pies (Hampden), Baltimore
The name says it all. These pies are made with real butter, and the crusts are perfectly golden. They offer classic flavors like apple and cherry, but also creative ones like Baltimore Bomb, which has Berger cookies baked right in.
Each pie is made by hand, and you can watch them work in the open kitchen. The slices are generous, and the fillings are packed with flavor. It’s a casual spot with a lot of personality and seriously good pie.
5. Krumpe’s Do-Nut Shop, Hagerstown
Open late at night, Krumpe’s has been frying donuts since 1934. They only make one thing, and they do it really well. The donuts are warm, soft, and covered in a simple glaze that’s just right.
There’s no fancy menu here, just classic cake donuts made fresh every night. You order through a small window, and the donuts come out still warm. People drive from all over just to grab a box late at night.
6. Praline Bakery & Bistro, Bethesda
This French-inspired bakery serves breakfast and lunch, but the pastries are the real star. Their almond croissants are buttery and filled with sweet almond cream. The pain au chocolat is another favorite, with dark chocolate tucked inside layers of flaky dough.
The bistro side offers quiches and sandwiches, but most people come for the baked goods. Everything is made fresh daily, and the quality is consistent. It’s a great spot for a quiet morning with coffee and a pastry.
7. Atwater’s (Belvedere Square), Baltimore
Known for their bread, Atwater’s also makes some excellent pastries. Their scones are crumbly and come in flavors like blueberry and cheddar chive. The cinnamon rolls are huge, with thick icing that melts into every crevice.
They use organic flour and local ingredients whenever possible. The bakery has a rustic feel, with big wooden tables and a display case full of tempting treats. It’s a favorite for brunch, but you can grab pastries to go anytime.
8. Touché Touchet Bakery, Columbia
Another French bakery on the list, Touché Touchet has been a Columbia favorite for years. Their fruit tarts are beautiful and taste as good as they look. The pastry cream is smooth, and the fruit is always fresh.
They also make excellent croissants and baguettes. The bakery is small and cozy, with a few tables if you want to sit and enjoy your pastry with coffee. Everything is made in-house, and the quality is top-notch.
9. SugarBakers Cakes, Catonsville
While they’re famous for custom cakes, SugarBakers also has a great selection of cupcakes and cookies. The cupcakes are moist, with frosting that’s not too heavy. They offer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, plus seasonal options.
The staff is friendly and helpful, especially if you’re ordering a special cake. Their decorating skills are impressive, but even the simple treats taste homemade. It’s a solid choice for everyday sweets or celebration cakes.
10. Shilla Bakery & Cafe, Ellicott City
If you’re looking for something different, Shilla offers Korean-style pastries and breads. Their red bean buns are soft and slightly sweet, with a smooth filling. They also make custard buns and savory options filled with vegetables or cheese.
The bakery is clean and bright, with a wide variety of treats to choose from. The prices are reasonable, and everything is fresh. It’s a nice change from traditional American bakeries and worth exploring.
11. Dulceology, Baltimore
Bright and cheerful, Dulceology specializes in cupcakes and custom desserts. Their cupcakes are fluffy, with creative flavors like salted caramel and lemon raspberry. The frosting is smooth and not overly sweet.
They also make cakes, cookies, and other treats for special occasions. The bakery has a fun, modern vibe, and the staff is always friendly. It’s a great place to grab a sweet treat or order something special for a party.
12. Smith Island Baking Company, Crisfield
Smith Island cake is Maryland’s official state dessert, and this bakery makes the real deal. The cakes have multiple thin layers with frosting in between, creating a beautiful striped effect when you cut into them. The classic flavor is yellow cake with chocolate frosting.
Each cake is made by hand using traditional recipes. They ship nationwide, but if you’re in Crisfield, you can pick one up fresh. It’s a slice of Maryland history and absolutely delicious.
13. Herman’s Bakery, Dundalk
A neighborhood favorite since 1949, Herman’s is the kind of bakery where everyone knows your name. They make everything from donuts to wedding cakes, all from scratch. The donuts are soft and fresh, and the cakes are moist with buttercream frosting.
It’s a no-frills place with a loyal following. People come back for the consistent quality and fair prices. If you want a classic American bakery experience, Herman’s delivers every time.