Nothing defines a summer vacation quite like sweet treats. Fortunately, the Jersey Shore’s baking scene is as iconic as its boardwalks. To celebrate our picks for The 10 Best Jersey Shore Bakeries of 2026, we’re showcasing the centuries-old baking traditions, European patisseries, and award-winning modern cake shops you simply have to visit.
From sticky buns dripping with honey and cinnamon to delicate French croissants laminated with real butter, the coastal spots on this list are sure to please. So pick up your current favorite coffee and get ready to pair it with your new favorite pastry, because it’s time to taste test The 10 Best Jersey Shore Bakeries. Keep Scrolling to See the Full List.
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The 10 Best
Jersey Shore Bakeries
Chester’s Pastry Pantry Bakery
Where: Somers Point
Details: For the sake of any dyslexic readers, we’ll stick to simply calling this bakery Chester’s. Probably most famous for their sticky buns, Chester’s is also a popular spot for donuts (like the vanilla cream filled), gingerbread men, and fresh cannolis. But there isn’t really a bad option on the menu, from cinnamon buns and danishes to their signature Honey buns. The latter is the marquee item of Chester’s, available both with nuts and without by the dozen. (Which in this case, is a baker’s dozen that actually consists of 14 honey buns.)
Chez Michel
Where: West Cape May
Details: A classic French bakery nestled in Cape May? It’s true! Owner Michel Gras — beloved locally for his previous venture, La Patisserie — does things a little differently at Chez Michel. In particular, the daily menu simply consists of whatever Michel feels like baking. The menu includes traditional French croissants, chocolate croissants, French breakfast pastries, baguettes, sticky buns, fruit tarts, and so much more. Michel also bakes seasonal holiday items and birthday/special event cakes, making him a one-stop shop.
Confections of a Rock Star
Where: Asbury Park
Details: Just like a real rock band, the early days of Confections of a Rock Star were filled with drama. In fact, the bakery starred in an episode of the Food Network’s 3 Days to Open with Bobby Flay. The show details owner Kimmee and her partner Lisa’s wild journey to opening a rock ‘n’ roll themed cupcake shop. Besides an assortment of mini cupcakes in fun flavors like O-reo Speedwagon and Rasbury Park, they bake other dessert items. This includes their fan favorite brownies, cheesecakes, cookies, and more.
Elisa’s Pastry Shop
Where: Lakewood
Details: Elisa’s has been Lakewood’s trusted bake shop for over 20 years, first opening in 2004. Their menu consists mainly of traditional Italian pastries such as biscotti, linzer tarts, cream puffs, and tiramisu. Of course, locals also love Elisa’s for their cannolis, authentic Pignolli cookies, and St Joseph’s pastries. But real fans know they make some of the best flan and coconut custards along the Jersey Shore. We also recommend their marble cake and apple pie. Seating is limited at Elisa’s, so it’s best to plan for takeout.
Emery’s Farm
Where: New Egypt
Details: This pick-your-own blueberry farm also doubles as an authentic country bakery. Locals know this is the go-to spot for fresh pies, bread, and other treats. Bakery highlights include pecan, blueberry crumb, and caramel apple walnut pie, giant cookies, and apple cider donuts. But don’t miss their Cranberry Orange Nut loaves, Zucchini bread, or their classic Banana Nut bread. For a special treat, Emery’s Farm also bakes blueberry/chocolate chip/lemon meltaways, as well as as Babka. (In both Blueberry and Pumpkin flavors.)
Hey Peach Bakery
Where: Bradley Beach
Details: This cute and cozy cafe is popular for their wide selection of coffee, tea, breads, and pastries. (We also love their hot chocolate.) Their bakery dishes out fresh macaroons, biscuits, scones, pretzels, cookies, brownies, cream puffs, and more. In particular, Hey Peach specializes in laminated pastries that stack thin layers of butter and dough. Popular laminated options include croissants, danishes, and palmiers. Meanwhile, we recommend taking home some of their signature Sesame Durum, Sunflower Rye, or Brioche à Tête breads.
Joe Leone’s Italian Specialties
Where: Point Pleasant Beach
Details: Whether you’re walking into their Manasquan market for a snack or placing a catering order at their Point Pleasant Beach location for a special event, Joe Leonie’s Italian Specialties will have what you’re looking for. Their rotating monthly menu is always brimming with sandwiches and creative prepared foods. Keep an eye out for daily specials like the Festival Style Sweet Sausage Peppers & Onions on a Neopolitan Roll. We also recommend the Caprese sandwich with roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella, tomato, and fresh basil.
La Scala Italian Pastry Shop
Where: Toms River
Details: If you’re looking for classic Italian pastries, La Scala is the spot. From classic cannolis and sfogliatelle to amaretto cheesecakes, sesame cookies, and traditional Babà, they bake it all. It’s hard to choose one particular item to recommend, so instead, be on the lookout for new limited time items. For example, their Canolli/Rainbow cookie Dot Cakes. La Scala is open seven days a week, and posts about any upcoming closings on their social media. In addition to their bakery items, La Scala is available for custom Occasion Cakes.
Mueller’s Bakery
Where: Bay Head
Details: The traditions of Mueller’s Bakery haven’t changed much in over 130 years. But that isn’t to say the bakery is stuck in time. Their baking methods have evolved with the years, allowing them to improve their products without compromising on quality or service. Locals love their holiday fondant cookies shaped for each occasion, like pumpkins or turkeys. But their peanut butter cookie is a must-try. Besides their selection of ready-made treats, Mueller’s is also a trusted spot for wedding and celebration cakes.
Papa Ganache
Where: Matawan
Details: If this bakery sounds familiar, their claim to fame dates back to 2013. That’s when the bakery won $10,000 by claiming the top prize in The Food Network’s popular Cupcake Wars competition. Nowadays, the small batch shop is a go-to source for gluten-free, egg-free, plant-based desserts and specialties. This includes cake pops, cheesecakes, pies, tarts, specialty cakes, and of course, their signature cupcakes. Papa Ganache has over 15 cupcake flavors to choose from, but our favorite is the chocolate chip cookie dough.
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Jersey Shore’s
Best Bakeries FAQs
For traditional honey buns, Chester’s Pastry Pantry Bakery (Somers Point) is an absolute staple. Likewise, Chez Michel (West Cape May) bakes fresh French-style sticky buns daily alongside traditional baguettes and croissants.
Papa Ganache (Matawan) is a small-batch bakery specializing in plant-based, egg-free, and gluten-free desserts. They offer over 15 specialty cupcake flavors alongside gluten-free pies and cake pops.
For classic Italian treats like cannolis, Pignolli cookies, and tiramisu, head to Elisa’s Pastry Shop in Lakewood. Similarly, La Scala Italian Pastry Shop (Toms River) is famous for sfogliatelle, amaretto cheesecakes, and creative dot cakes.
Emery’s Farm (New Egypt) operates an authentic country bakery right on a pick-your-own blueberry farm. They are famous for their fresh blueberry crumb, pecan, and caramel apple walnut pies, as well as apple cider donuts.
Yes! Chez Michel brings authentic French baking to Cape May County, operated by local baker Michel Gras. His daily menu features hand-rolled French butter croissants, chocolate croissants, palmiers, and delicate fruit tarts.
Top (Hero) Photo: © Papa Ganache / Facebook
