What’s sweeter than taking a scenic drive to wander the charming shops of Columbia, historic Ellicott City, or Maple Lawn? Stopping for a treat at one of these local bakeries, where the goods are freshly baked and full of summertime joy. Whether you're sipping solo with an iced latte, keeping the kids entertained with mochi donuts and waffles, or wrapping up a date night with a truffle or tart, these bakeries serve up the perfect sugar rush for any adventure.
1. Bon Bakes – Clarksville Commons
Tucked inside The Common Kitchen, Bon Bakes is a flavor-forward food stall serving Korean-style mochi donuts, French macarons, funnel cakes, and seasonal treats. It's the kind of spot where you grab a tray of sweetness and enjoy it al fresco at one of the shaded tables just outside.
2. Decadent Dessert Bar – Maple Lawn
It’s all in the name. Decadent Dessert Bar dishes out over-the-top indulgences like sizzling brownie skillets, creamy gelato, and handmade truffles with a menu that changes daily. It's an elevated dessert experience perfect for girls' nights or post-dinner dates.
Decadent Maple Lawn
3. Elli Mochi – Koreatown
Bright, bold, and Insta-worthy, Elli Mochi specializes in chewy, colorful mochi donuts, Korean rice flour hotdogs, and boba drinks. It’s a fun, quick stop in Columbia’s Koreatown where the vibe is playful and the treats are one-of-a-kind.
4. Kupcakes & Co. – Elkridge
A local legend for cupcakes, this family-owned shop serves signature flavors like Half Baked and Cookie Dough, plus gluten-free, vegan, and mini cupcake options. You’ll also find custom cakes perfect for parties.
5. Touché Touchet – Columbia
A go-to for custom cakes, Touché Touchet also has a rotating lineup of premium cupcakes like Coconut Cream, German Chocolate, and Red Velvet. It’s the kind of place where celebrations (big or small) begin.
Touche Touchet
6. Little Market Café – Historic Ellicott City
Known for its cozy outdoor courtyard and live music vibes, Little Market Café is more than sandwiches – it’s also a spot for cookies, cakes, and creative lattes like Raspberry Beret and Campfire. A great stop while exploring Main Street.
7. Roggenart – Savage & Ellicott City
European café meets local bistro. Roggenart’s pastry case is packed with buttery croissants, fruit tarts, danishes, and bread pudding – all made from scratch. Pair your pastry with a cappuccino and linger at a table for the full experience.
8. Tous les Jours – Columbia and Koreatown
This French-Asian bakery is beloved for its ultra-light pastries, croissants, pies, and cream cakes – all made with traditional Korean techniques. Think buttery, airy, and not-too-sweet. Don’t miss the seasonal fruit tarts or mochi cream doughnuts.
Tous les Jours
9. Shilla Bakery – Koreatown
A staple in Ellicott City's Korean bakery scene, Shilla offers a wide range of soft breads, spongey cakes, and fluffy buns – some with sweet red bean or custard fillings. Pick up a box and a sweet iced coffee to-go.
10. Café June – Koreatown
This café is all about aesthetic treats: think honey-strawberry waffles, peanut butter-banana croffles (that’s a croissant-waffle hybrid), and seasonal beverages. It’s a calm, trendy space perfect for catching up with a friend or treating yourself.
Make It a Sweet Escape
After indulging in all those treats, why not turn your day trip into a relaxing overnight stay? The Staybridge Suites Columbia Baltimore offers spacious suites, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and a central location perfect for unwinding after a day full of sugar and sightseeing.
