By Jim Carchidi
Orlando's restaurant roster is a big draw for locals and tourists, but the region’s pastry shops offer their own attractions. A growing number of bakeries specializing in unique desserts and crowd-pleasing cakes mean Central Florida foodies have a lot to be thankful for this holiday season.
Whether you want to compliment a big family meal or just treat yourself, The Orlando Real offers a list of five local bakeries that are ready to please.
The Glass Knife
276 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park
212 N Park Ave, Winter Park
407-500-CAKE (2253)
Photo courtesy of The Glass Knife
Winter Park's The Glass Knife is known for its creative dessert selections. The concept first opened in 2017 on S. Orlando Avenue and proved so popular that a second location recently opened on Park Avenue. The menu of single-sized treats includes bonbons, macarons, cookies, brownies, and Pop Tarts. And there are 8 varieties of full-size cake creations. Orders can be picked up or delivered and should be made with three days notice. Call or check the website for information.
Valhalla Bakery
5565 Old Cheney Highway, Orlando, 407-868-5137
2444 Central Avenue, St Pete, 727-954-4792
Photo courtesy of Valhalla Bakery
Valhalla Bakery opened in Orlando in 2014 with a mix of vegan and traditional recipes that later became exclusively vegan. Owner Celine Duvoisin also founded Valhalla's sister-bakery, Valkyrie Doughnuts, in 2016. A loyal following among vegans and non-vegans inspired an expansion into St. Petersburg in 2017. The doughnuts are now available at both bakery locations after Valkyrie closed last year. Pastries and custom wedding cakes are available, along with a holiday pie menu featuring 11 varieties. Orders can be picked up or delivered, see the website for details and holiday deadlines at both locations.
Gideon’s Bakehouse
3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando
Disney Springs
Photo courtesy of Gideon's Bakehouse
Gideon's Bakehouse began as a small-batch bakery at East End Market and grew into a Disney Springs destination. But "small" is a relative term with cookies each weighing about half-a-pound and cakes no less than three layers high. Both locations offer similar menus of year-round and seasonal products with preorders only available from the East End shop. Shipping is not available and quantities are limited. Preorders should be made at least three days in advance and can be made up to 30 days ahead. Guests are advised to check Gideon’s social media for product updates and availability.
Sister Honey’s
247 E Michigan St., Orlando, 407-730-7315
Photo courtesy of Sister Honey's
Inspired by and named for the mother of owner Evette Rahman, Sister Honey’s is known for made-from-scratch creations like the magic bars, hummingbird cake, and a wide selection of cupcakes. Rahman is also a James Beard Award semifinalist and a three-time winner of the World Dessert Championship. Due to volume, orders should be made at least three weeks in advance and orders can only be picked up. Call or log onto the website for ordering, information, and holiday deadlines.
Charley’s Bakery & Creamery
3213 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, 407-898-9561
Photo courtesy of Charley's Bakery & Creamery
Charlie’s Bakery & Creamery has been serving Orlando for nearly 55 years. The menu includes more than 30 varieties of whole cakes and cheesecakes, and a list of 15 pie creations. Single-serving sweets like cookies, cannoli, cream pie cups, and handcrafted ice cream add to a long list of choices that also features gluten-free and non-dairy items. Delivery is available but pickups are required for certain preorders. Check the website or call for information and holiday deadlines.
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