Here is a quartet of small locally owned bakeries that carry an excellent assortment of delicious baked goods, from breads and bagels, to cupcakes and fine French pastries:
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Townie Bagels 650 E Sunny Dunes Road website
Pastry Chef Andy Wysocki had a dream of turning his passion for baking into a business. He started by delivering bagels out of his home, and then at local farmers markets. In 2016, he and his partner Bill opened a store-front bakery/cafe selling bagels and other baked goods, as well as sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. It was an instant hit, and is big favorite of locals and tourists. They carry the usual assortment of bagels and cream cheese along with some surprises. If you want to try something sweet, how about a french toast bagel and maple syrup cream cheese. Or for a filling savory breakfast sandwich, try your favorite bagel with sausage, egg, and cheese. They also brew up beverages using Joshua Tree Coffee, another local favorite. If you want to take something home, try the chocolate or cinnamon babka, or choose from a number of specialty breads.
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Peninsula Pastries 611 S Palm Canyon Drive (in the Sun Center) website
The owner of Peninsula came here from France to share her amazing pastries with us. The flour she uses is also from France, which gives them that extra something. The offerings are beautiful and go quickly, so try to go in early in the day. The croissants and baguettes can’t be beat, and the assortment of desserts are fantastic. For a special treat, try the Kouign-Amann pastry, with is like a sweet sticky buttery croissant – like a French version of baklava. It’s a bit of heaven.
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Carousel Bakery 440 El Cielo Road website
This family owned bakery makes the best Tres Leches Cake! I could stop there, but the cakes and pastries are all so gorgeous and delicious. There is a case of traditional Mexican pastries, including a cream filled empanada that is fantastic. They also serve sandwiches and coffee, so it’s a great place to stop by for a bite and a sit-down, or to pick up some treats to take home. The owners are especially friendly and welcoming, so Carousel is always a happy place to stop in.
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Over The Rainbow Desserts 1775 E Palm Canyon Dr #150 website
Over The Rainbow is the home base of chef Roman Blas, who made his name making cupcakes and has since become the man to go to for event cakes all kinds of treats. Roman has appeared on numerous shows on the Food Network with his creations. But back to the cupcakes. They are definitely the best in town, and you can get them in an assortment of flavors from predictable to surprising. The salted caramel peanut cupcake is my favorite, and if you are feeling adventurous there is a chocolate dipped potato chip cupcake, or a maple bacon, or green apple with brie. You will want to go back multiple times to try the different flavors.