Photo courtesy of Strong Arm Baking Co.
Whether we’re going for cookies or cupcakes, bread or brownies, we can’t resist a great bakery. And with so many tempting choices across the state, we decided to ask our readers for their favorites.
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Thankfully, they had a few suggestions – even if they couldn’t all agree. We’ve narrowed their selections to half a dozen of the most popular options for you, sorted by what they’re best at: breads, cakes, cookies, pies, muffins, and pastries.
Best Bread in North Carolina: Strong Arm Baking Co.
Photo courtesy of Strong Arm Baking Co
Where: 117 Main St, Oxford, NC 27565
What to order: Focaccia
Yelp review: “Wonderful bakery. Delicious bread, muffins, cookies. Everything I’ve had is delicious. Fun atmosphere. I stop here every time I come through town.” –Kerry M.
Best Cakes in North Carolina: Samantha’s Pupusas
Where: 117 Cornelius St, Hillsborough, NC 27278
What to order: Coconut Cake
Yelp review: “I made two trips in the last two weeks to this place because the food is amazing. Of course the pupusas are fantastic but also the quesadilla, guacamole, salsa and omg the desserts. Amazing cookies and cakes. I’ll be ordering a whole cake for my next bday..” –Cobey C.
Best Cookies in North Carolina: Yellow Dog Bread Company
Where: 219 E Franklin St, Raleigh, NC 27604
What to order: Chai Cookie
Yelp review: “This is a great place to grab a coffee and cookie and watch the locals.” –Tresa W.
Best Pies in North Carolina: Groovy Duck Bakery
Photo courtesy of Groovy Duck Bakery
Where: 3434 Edwards Mill Rd #110, Raleigh, NC 27612
What to order: Cherry Berry Pie
Yelp review: “The pie did not disappoint. I will be going back.” –Robin C.
Best Muffins in North Carolina: Cup-A-Joe
Where: 112 W King St, Hillsborough, NC 27278
What to order: Chocolate Muffin
Yelp review: “I go to Cup-A-Joe for the baked goods … It’s all homemade. Additionally, the service is friendly and with a smile. Such a neighborhood gem!” –Arisa S.
Best Pastries in North Carolina: Dom Bakeries
Photo courtesy of Dom Bakeries
Where: 908 D St, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
What to order: Apple Fritter
Yelp review: “Sub sandwiches on homemade bread were delicious (and huge!). The pizza and salads were delicious too. The donuts and pastries were the superstars though! The smell alone must have calories!” –Sherri Z.
VIDEO: Leah’s Favorite North Carolina Foodie Stops of 2023
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