Ohio hides some of the sweetest secrets. Behind unassuming storefronts and quiet streets, locals know where to snag the best baked treats in the state. These aren’t flashy, tourist-packed spots—they’re humble bakeries where the magic happens before sunrise.
Step inside, and the smell of fresh bread, pastries, and cream-filled delights hits you like a warm hug. Cream puffs, pies, and cookies disappear as fast as they’re made, with lines forming before the doors even open. We found ten bakeries across Ohio where tradition, flavor, and devotion to craft rule the counters.
These are the places where you’ll want to linger, savor every bite, and maybe even start planning your next visit before you’ve finished your first.
Resch’s Bakery
Resch’s Bakery, a Columbus icon since 1912, is renowned for its heavenly cream puffs. Locals rave about the airy pastry filled with rich cream, a testament to its century-old legacy. Resch’s isn’t just a bakery; it’s a local treasure. Generations have come to savor its sweetness, making it a staple in community celebrations.
While many travelers pass by unaware, those who stop are treated to a taste of history wrapped in confectionery delight. It’s the place where memories are baked daily, and the scent of nostalgia lingers in the air.
Kennedy’s Bakery
Since 1925, Kennedy’s Bakery in New Philadelphia has been a beacon of sweetness and tradition. Known for cream puffs that marry pastry cream and whipped cream, it’s a local institution. Each treat reflects the bakery’s dedication to quality and community.
Seasonal variations add a touch of novelty to their timeless offerings. For locals, it’s a comforting constant; for visitors, a delightful surprise. With a historic ambiance, Kennedy’s is where the past meets the present in every bite, a silent witness to countless celebrations and everyday joys.
Belle’s Bread
Belle’s Bread, a Columbus jewel, offers a taste of Japan with its exquisite cream puffs. Matcha, black sesame, and yuzu flavors transport patrons to distant lands. Locals appreciate the bakery’s commitment to authenticity and innovation. Each pastry is a masterpiece, reflecting a blend of tradition and creativity. Though it remains a hidden gem, those who visit are treated to a culinary journey.
The bakery is a place where artistry meets flavor, and every bite is an exploration. It’s a cultural escape in the heart of Ohio.
Michael Angelo’s Bakery
Operating since 1955, Michael Angelo’s Bakery is a Cleveland staple, cherished for its Italian pastries. The cream puffs here are a local favorite, embodying the bakery’s rich heritage and commitment to quality. Stepping inside feels like entering a time capsule, where the past’s warmth envelops you. Locals gather not just for the sweets, but for the sense of community.
Travelers often pass by, unaware of the treasure trove within. It’s a place where tradition is savored, and each pastry tells a story of culinary passion.
Troyer’s Home Pantry
Troyer’s Home Pantry in Apple Creek is a magical spot where every visit feels like coming home. Known for their strawberry and pumpkin pies, the bakery offers more than just sweets; it offers memories. Locals cherish this hidden treasure, a place where tradition meets innovation.
The bakery’s charm lies in its simplicity and the warmth of its owners. Travelers might overlook it, but those who enter are welcomed with open arms. It’s a reminder of the simple joys of life, where community and flavor coexist in harmony.
Village Bakery & Cafe
Village Bakery & Cafe in Athens offers not just baked goods, but an experience. Known for its artisanal breads and pastries, it’s a gathering spot for locals seeking quality and comfort.
The cozy ambiance invites patrons to linger, making it more than just a bakery. While it may escape the radar of many travelers, those who discover it find a haven of taste and creativity. It’s a place where every loaf and pastry tells a story, a testament to the art of baking. Here, the community gathers over shared joy and flavors.
The Taylored Cookie & Bakery
In Portsmouth, The Taylored Cookie & Bakery stands as a testament to history and flavor. Home to the oldest working Hobart mixer in America, the bakery offers classic cookies and baked goods that locals adore. It’s a place where the past’s tools craft present-day delights.
While travelers might pass it by, those who stop are rewarded with a taste of tradition. The bakery is a hidden gem where history and baking intersect, creating a unique culinary experience. It’s a slice of Portsmouth’s heritage, wrapped in sweet nostalgia.
Schneider’s Bakery
Nestled in the heart of Westerville, Schneider’s Bakery is a family-owned treasure that has been serving the community since 1957. As you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked donuts greets you with a warm embrace. Known for their maple cream sticks and apple fritters, Schneider’s offers a delightful variety of baked goods that cater to every sweet tooth.
Locals often reminisce about childhood visits, making Schneider’s not just a bakery, but a cherished memory. Whether you’re a fan of classic glazed or adventurous flavors, this bakery’s selection never disappoints.
If you find yourself in Westerville, joining the line outside Schneider’s is an experience in itself. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff make it worth the wait, and you’ll leave with not just a box of pastries, but a slice of local history.
Pattycake Bakery
Nestled in the heart of Columbus, Pattycake Bakery is where nostalgia meets modernity. This vegan bakery, known for its retro charm, captivates both the young and old. Visitors are greeted with the sweet aroma of cookies and cupcakes, a testament to their commitment to fresh, organic ingredients.
The bakery’s whimsical decor, with its vintage posters and pastel colors, adds a playful touch. Regulars rave about the whoopie pies, a specialty that brings back childhood memories.
With a focus on sustainability, Pattycake not only delights the taste buds but also warms the heart with its eco-friendly ethos.
Buckeye Donuts
Open 24/7, Buckeye Donuts is a staple near The Ohio State University. This donut shop is a haven for students and locals alike, seeking comfort in its fried delights. The classic glazed donuts are a crowd favorite, but it’s the unique Buckeye donut, filled with peanut butter, that steals the show.
The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the friendly staff, creates a welcoming environment. It’s a place where late-night cravings are satisfied and mornings start sweetly.
With decades of history, Buckeye Donuts remains a beloved spot, embodying the spirit of community and tradition.