If you’re craving Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods that draw lines out the door, here are ten legendary bakeries where locals and visitors still crowd in droves for shoofly pie, sticky buns, and more.
1. Bird‑in‑Hand Bakeshop (Bird-in-Hand)
Nestled in the heart of Amish country, Bird-in-Hand Bakeshop is a beloved destination known for its delicious whoopie pies, fruit pies, and desserts crafted using time-honored recipes. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, inviting visitors to indulge in delightful baked goods that echo the simplicity and richness of Pennsylvania Dutch culinary heritage. During holidays and weekends, the bakeshop becomes a bustling hub of activity, drawing enthusiasts from far and wide eager to taste the authentic flavors that have been lovingly preserved through generations.
2. The Pennsylvania Bakery (Camp Hill)
Renowned for its fastnachts, The Pennsylvania Bakery is a must-visit spot during Fat Tuesday, when lines wrap around the block. This family-run gem offers an assortment of holiday pies, éclairs, and cream puffs that draw crowds year-round, making it a cherished community staple. The bakery’s charm lies in its ability to blend tradition with warmth, offering each visitor a taste of nostalgia with every bite. The aroma of freshly baked goods permeates the air, making it impossible to resist stopping by for a treat or two.
3. Beiler’s Bakery (Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia)
Inside Philadelphia’s iconic Reading Terminal Market, Beiler’s Bakery is a vibrant corner of doughy delights. Known for selling thousands of donuts daily, their sticky buns, fritters, and apple fritters are irresistible to both locals and tourists. The hustle and bustle of the market add to the bakery’s lively atmosphere, making every visit an event. As lines form at the corner booth, the aroma of fresh pastries fills the air, capturing the essence of a timeless tradition that keeps customers returning time after time.
4. Sturgis Pretzel House (Lititz)
Dating back to 1861, Sturgis Pretzel House is not just a bakery, but a piece of history. As the oldest commercial pretzel bakery in the U.S., it draws pretzel lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors are often seen lining up to taste the freshly baked soft pretzels, each bite offering a savory crunch that embodies tradition. The small, historic storefront adds to the charm, offering an inviting glimpse into the past where simple pleasures are celebrated. Every pretzel here tells a story of enduring craftsmanship.
5. Achenbach’s Pastries (Leola, Lancaster County)
Achenbach’s Pastries, known as the ‘Home of the Long John,’ is where generations of locals gather to savor cream-filled long johns, pound cakes, and pies. Using recipes passed down since 1954, this bakery captures the essence of traditional baking. During holidays, the queues grow long with eager customers craving these classic treats. The bakery’s inviting atmosphere and commitment to quality are evident in every bite, making it a cherished destination for those seeking a taste of nostalgia and the comforting flavors of home-baked goodness.
6. Fritz’s Bakery (Langhorne, Bucks County)
In a seemingly modest strip-mall setting, Fritz’s Bakery is a hidden gem that locals love for its perfectly fried donuts, jelly donuts, and cinnamon buns. Its reputation for homey, generous delights draws in regulars who often bypass other bakeries for this special spot. The sense of community is palpable here, with early risers lining up to grab their favorite treats before they sell out. The bakery’s charm lies in its simplicity and dedication to providing fresh, delicious baked goods that bring joy to all who visit.
7. Sanitary Bakery (Nanticoke, Northeastern PA)
Despite its unusual name, Sanitary Bakery is a beloved fixture in Nanticoke, drawing crowds for its paska Easter bread and Slovak-style pagach filled breads. The bakery’s charm is steeped in tradition, making it a favorite during Easter when queues become spectacular. Beyond the holiday season, it remains a gathering place where locals and visitors alike relish the warm, comforting tastes of heritage-baked goods. The legacy of this establishment is built on its commitment to preserving the flavors and culinary practices of the Pennsylvania Dutch community.
8. Haegele’s Bakery (Philadelphia)
Established over 80 years ago, Haegele’s Bakery is a Philadelphia institution known for its fastnachts, which are especially popular during Mardi Gras. The nutmeg- and cinnamon-spiced doughnuts are fried to golden perfection, attracting customers in droves. The bakery’s atmosphere evokes a sense of old-world charm, with every visit becoming a cherished memory. The dedication to tradition and the community is evident in every product, ensuring that each treat carries the rich history and flavor that Haegele’s is renowned for.
9. Dutch Haven (Ronks, Lancaster County)
A windmill landmark on Route 30, Dutch Haven is famous for its shoofly pie—molasses-soaked, crumb-topped perfection. It also offers hand-rolled pretzels, whoopie pies, and Amish crafts. Visitors often describe lines snaking out the door on weekends—and even midweek during peak months. This charming spot is not just about the treats, but an experience of culinary tradition that keeps everyone coming back. Whether you are a local or a tourist, the warm aroma of fresh baked goods is irresistible. It’s a place where every visit feels like a delightful step back in time.
10. Dietrich’s Meats & Country Store (Krumsville, Berks County)
Though known for its meats, Dietrich’s Meats & Country Store is equally loved for its bakery, particularly its fastnachts made with mace. On fastnacht day and weekends, the bakery counter draws significant crowds eager to experience the uniquely rich flavor. The store offers a blend of rustic charm and culinary delight, making it a favorite among locals and tourists. The dedication to quality and tradition is palpable, with each visit offering a taste of authentic Pennsylvania Dutch baking that leaves a lasting impression.
