The 3 best bakeries in Erie, according to our readers

In Erie, PA we love our baked goods. From pepperoni balls to fresh bread to cookies and cakes, this town is teeming with some amazing goodies. While Erie may be a smaller market, the city offers a variety of different bakeries that cater to all tastes, so everyone can find something to satisfy those savory or sweet cravings. 

Is it the heat of the hearth that keeps people coming back to Erie’s best bakeries? Perhaps. Or maybe it’s the feeling of family that beams from these long-standing institutions. Many of the city’s bakeries have been family-owned for generations, creating a sense of continuity and trust. Some specialize in classic American baked goods, while others offer a fusion of international flavors, reflecting the city’s cultural diversity. Many use locally sourced goods and traditional baking methods to create products that are both wholesome and satisfying. 

STATEWIDE LIST: The 13 best bakeries in Pennsylvania

Erie’s bakeries don’t skimp on their seasonal and limited-time offerings. Since this article is going up during the holiday shopping season, keep an eye out for pizzelles, fresh-baked Christmas cookies, sweet Polish bread, cranberry-infused winter favorites, and more. Take a closer look below at Erie’s three best bakeries according to local foodies.

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3. International Bakery

International Bakery was also one of your top picks for the best pepperoni balls in Erie. But this bakery is known for so much more than just its fluffy, crispy, pepperoni-filled fare. This bakery is beloved for baking up Italian favorites, from pizza supplies to cannoli to classic Italian bread and more. Established in 1924, this bakery has been a cornerstone of Erie’s Little Italy for 100 years.

While International Bakery was our readers’ #3 choice, it’s my cousin Steph’s number one. She raves about their pepperoni balls and pizza shells and refuses to get them anywhere else. But my favorite offering from International Bakery is their tiramisu. I don’t know what they’re doing to their ladyfingers that I’m not able to manage in my own kitchen, or if they’re adding magic to the mascarpone, but it’s simply amazing — the best tiramisu I’ve ever had. 

In addition to pizza goods and sweets, International Bakery is also recognized for its bread. With prices that are competitive with supermarket bread, these fresh selections are simply better. Their rustic Italian loaves, rolls, and seasonal selections can’t be beat for the price. 

If you’re ordering goodies for the holidays, give this local bakery a shot. You can find some standout cannoli and cookies, breads and rolls for your holiday feast, and, of course, tiramisu. International Bakery may just become a family tradition.

READ MORE: The best breakfasts in Erie

2. Herb & Honey Bakery

Tucked inside Urbaniak Bros. Quality Meats, Herb & Honey Bakery has earned its place as a standout as one of Erie’s best bakeries, offering a delightful mix of “creative breads and pastries.” 

If it wasn’t for owner and head baker Jessica Schultz’s passion and creative thinking, Herb & Honey, established in 2020, may not have made it. She knew the web-based portion of running her business was going to be her lifeline, not just for pre-orders but also for marketing. Herb & Honey is still here, so it’s clear she did everything right.

But was it all online marketing that’s kept Herb & Honey going? In my opinion, that’s a hard no. Schultz has always believed in using fresh, local ingredients. And while many establishments say that they do this or try to do this, Schultz is dedicated to the process. Her motto is that people should know, at an atomic level, what is going into their bodies. At Herb & Honey, customers can count on fresh. They can count on wholesome. They can count on local sources when possible. 

One of the bakery’s signature items is a homemade pop tart. As a millennial who grew up on pantry staples and fast-boxed meals, I’m totally in love with these. They also sell pre-made shortbread cookies for the holidays, taking stress off of busy moms (like me) who want the goodies without hours of baking. Not to mention the breakfast breads, cinnamon rolls, savory croissants, and classic Polish breads.

Both Herb & Honey and Urbaniak Bros. are the essence of “what’s old is new again.” Nothing beats baked goods made with only the freshest ingredients, just like nothing beats classic Polish staples and fresh, local butchered meats.

READ MORE: The best coffee shops in Erie

1. Art’s Bakery: The Community’s Choice

Also a top pick for best pepperoni balls in Erie, Art’s Bakery has claimed the number one spot for the best bakery in Erie. I’m thrilled that Art’s won the number one spot on this list because it’s been my personal favorite bakery in Erie from the time I was old enough to drive to their West Ridge Rd. location. 

Established just after World War II, this family-owned establishment was passed down from the original owner Art to his son, keeping the quality and consistency the same for 73 years. When long-time owner Gordon (Art’s son) decided to retire in 2023, he put the family business up for sale. It could not have landed in better hands. Cori Sutton, a former Art’s employee, her husband, Todd, and their kids not only purchased Art’s but kept every staff member, including Gordon employed while also working the bakery themselves. The quality and consistency have not wavered.

Art’s Bakery has a little bit of everything from cookies to pies to fresh-baked breads to grocery and deli items and more. Their current selection is reminiscent of Art’s original dream: to have a family grocery store in the community that’s better than the big supermarket chains.

Beyond their standard offerings, Art’s Bakery is also known for its seasonal and holiday-themed items. And since the holidays are right around the corner, online ordering — to ensure your favorite items are hot and ready on time — is a must.  But if you have a moment, stop on in. Art’s Bakery is always welcoming and warm. The fresh smells are still baked into my memory after years away from the Gem City.  From what I’ve been told, the staff are still just as friendly and knowledgeable, and it’s clear that they love what they do. 

READ MORE: The best pepperoni balls in Erie