9 Best Nashville Bakeries to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth (and What to Order)

Best Bakeries in Nashville
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    Discover Where to Find the Most Irresistible Baked Goods in Music City

    Close up of a glass case full of delicious baked goods
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    Nashville might be celebrated for its iconic music scene, but there’s another melody playing in the background, one that sings of flour, sugar, and the warmth of the oven. The city’s bakery scene is a delightful surprise, offering an array of treats that promise to satisfy any sweet tooth. From the fluffy, perfect pastries to the most intricate confections, Nashville’s bakeries are a must-try on any trip to town. 

    Read on to learn more about the best bakeries in Nashville and what to order to perfectly treat yourself. 

    Nashville’s Bakeries

    As you wander through Nashville, the scent of freshly baked goods seems to follow you, leading you from one delightful spot to the next. The bakery scene here is growing, offering a taste of the traditional as well as a glimpse into the future of baking. Whether it’s a croissant so light it seems to defy gravity or a cupcake that’s a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate, the variety is staggering. 

    Behind each display case lies a world of creativity, with bakers pouring their hearts into every batch. From classic recipes passed down through generations to modern twists that challenge the taste buds, Nashville’s bakeries are a celebration of the art of baking. The dedication to quality and the pursuit of perfection in a simple loaf of bread or a decadent dessert highlight what makes this city’s bakery scene so special. 

    It’s about more than just satisfying a craving; it’s about the experience, the memories created, and the smiles shared over a plate of something wonderfully sweet.

    Best Bakeries Nashville Has to Offer

    Five Daughters Bakery

    Website: fivedaughtersbakery.com

    Address: Multiple locations 

    Five Daughters Bakery has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking extraordinary treats. Renowned for its innovative 100 Layer Donuts, this family-owned bakery blends tradition with creativity, offering a unique twist on the classic French croissant donut. Each layer adds its own chapter to the story of this treat, making every bite a memorable experience. The bakery’s cozy, welcoming atmosphere is a reflection of its roots as a family venture, with a strong commitment to community and culinary excellence. If you crave a great donut in Music City, Five Daughters Bakery is the place to stop. 

    Little Gourmand

    Website: littlegourmand.us

    Address: Multiple locations

    Step into Little Gourmand, and you’ll find yourself transported to the charming streets of Paris. This quaint bakery is a treasure trove of authentic French pastries, sandwiches, and quiches, making it a slice of France right in the south. The ambiance is as warm and inviting as a cozy Parisian café, with the aroma of freshly baked croissants filling the air. Each pastry is created with care, using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients to ensure an authentic taste experience. The French Croissants, light, buttery, and perfectly flaky, are definitely worth a try, although you can’t go wrong with an authentic tartlet. 

    An assortment of gourmet pastries displayed on a marble surface.
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    Baby Cakes Bakery

    Website: www.babycakesnash.com

    Address: 819 Main St, Nashville, TN 37206

    When you’re exploring East Nashville, Baby Cakes Bakery stands out with its imaginative approach to baking. Known for its whimsical custom cakes, fresh cookies, and an ever-changing selection of pies, this bakery excels in creating desserts that are visually stunning and delicious. The secret to its success lies in its commitment to using fresh, quality ingredients and a pinch of creativity in every recipe. 

    The bakery’s ambiance is playful and inviting, making every visit a delightful adventure. Looking for a way to spice up your bachelorette party? Join BabyCake’s Bakery for an electrifying Bachelorette celebration, featuring hands-on cupcake decorating, pizza feasts, and surprise adult entertainer appearances, with the option to infuse cupcakes with your favorite liquor!

    Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, Baby Cakes Bakery’s custom cakes are the perfect blend of artistry and flavor. They’re a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth exploring Nashville. Grab a latte and a piece of cake, and relax. 

    A variety of baked goods, including brownies, cupcakes, and a crumb cake, arranged on a pink tray.
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    D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe

    Website: dandrewsbakery.com

    Address: 555 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219

    Downtown Nashville is home to D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe, a spot where traditional baking techniques meet a flair for innovation. This bakery is celebrated for its signature sourdough and an array of seasonal pastries that embody the spirit of creativity. Each visit brings the anticipation of new flavors, as the bakery prides itself on offering a rotating menu that highlights the best of what each season has to offer. Their French Bulldog macaron, in particular, is a delightful surprise, blending exquisite craftsmanship with a playful twist. D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe is perfect for those who appreciate the art of baking and are always eager to taste something unique and memorable. It is also one of our favorite breakfast spots downtown!

    Baked on 8th

    Website: www.bakedon8th.com

    Address: 1512 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

    Baked on 8th is the epitome of a cozy neighborhood bakery, where the irresistible smell of baking welcomes you at the door. Leah Carmean, a former Belmont alumni, introduces a warm and inviting ambiance, creating the ideal setting for unwinding or catching up with friends.

    This bakery shines with its hand-crafted cookies, pies, and custom cakes, which are made with love and a touch of whimsy. Among their mouthwatering offerings, the s’mores brownie stands out as a must-try, combining the classic campfire treat with the comfort of a homemade brownie. Baked on 8th’s daily specials are always a delightful surprise, ensuring that every visit is a new adventure for your taste buds.

    A smiling woman behind the counter of a bakery filled with an array of delicious treats displayed under glass dome cake stands.
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    Bearded Baker

    Website: www.beardedbakernashville.com

    Address: Home-based by appointment only

    The Bearded Baker has quickly become a cherished secret among Nashville locals. Nate Clingman is renowned for its exquisitely designed and realistic-looking cakes, bookies, and pastries. . If you can imagine it, Nate can create it. Many Nashville celebrities order from Nate in order to make the perfect birthday cake, or anniversary treat, or satisfy their sweet tooth.  Place an order ahead of time and become one of the few travelers lucky enough to enjoy something from this amazing baker who won Martha Stewart’s Breakaway Camp. 

    A cake featuring a picture of Taylor Swift, the renowned singer-songwriter
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    The Cupcake Collection

    Website: www.thecupcakecollection.com

    Address: 1213 6th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208

    In the heart of Germantown, The Cupcake Collection showcases the sweet success of family-owned businesses in Nashville. This bakery has won the hearts of many with its array of moist, flavorful cupcakes that bring a touch of homemade love to every bite. The story of its rise from a local favorite to a city-wide staple is as inspiring as the sense of community it fosters within its walls. The Cupcake Collection and its amazing sweet lemonade cupcake are a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of genuine Nashville hospitality.

    A tray of frosted cupcakes on a kitchen counter.
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    Dozen Bakery 

    Website: https://www.dozen-nashville.com/ 

    Address:516 Hagan St #103, Nashville, TN 37203 

    Positioned between Nashville’s Central and South districts, Dozen Bakery shines as a culinary gem, mastering the art of baking. Their expertise with dough results in baguettes with a delightful crunch, pastries bursting with layers of flavor and fruit, and breakfast and lunch offerings that marry creativity with taste. Whether it’s the velvety croissants (lemon bar croissant is one of our favorites) or the sandwiches loaded with fresh ingredients, Dozen Bakery is the destination for those craving exceptional bread. Every bite is a testament to their dedication to quality ingredients and timeless techniques, delivering an authentic and memorable dining experience.

    Nothing Bundt Cakes

    Website: www.nothingbundtcakes.com

    Address: Multiple locations

    Nothing Bundt Cakes brings a special twist to the Nashville bakery scene with its focus on moist, flavorful bundt cakes available in a variety of sizes and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a personal treat or a centerpiece for a celebration, this bakery has something to suit every occasion. The classic Red Velvet bundt cake is a crowd-pleaser known for its rich flavor and velvety texture. With multiple locations across Nashville, Nothing Bundt Cakes offers a convenient and delightful experience for anyone looking to indulge in a little sweetness.

    Brightside Bake Shop

    Website: www.brightsidebakeshop.com

    Address: Multiple locations

    Brightside Bake Shop is a go-to spot for pastry lovers, celebrated for its artisanal approach to baking. Using high-quality, natural ingredients, the bakery crafts a range of hand-crafted pastries. The seasonal menu is a highlight, offering a chance to experience new flavors and creations that reflect the bakery’s dedication to freshness and variety. The croissant varieties, from classic to inventive, are particularly noteworthy, as are the savory breakfast pastries, which provide a perfect start to the day. 

    An assortment of freshly baked pastries, including croissants and cinnamon rolls, temptingly displayed in a bakery.
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    Beyond the Best Bakery: Nashville Adventures Await

    Close up of a person’s hands holding a cup of coffee and pastry
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    Exploring Nashville’s bakery scene is a delicious way to start any day in the city, but why stop there? Imagine pairing a morning pastry from one of these top bakeries with a leisurely stroll through Centennial Park, where the fresh air and open spaces complement your sweet treat perfectly. 

    For those seeking a more structured culinary adventure, consider taking yourself on a self-guided bakery tour. Begin your day with a savory breakfast pastry, progress to a mid-morning sweet treat, and end with a take-home dessert. This tour not only satisfies your taste buds but also introduces you to the diverse neighborhoods that make up Nashville.

    Savoring the Sweet Life in Nashville

    To truly enjoy Nashville’s bakery scene, timing is everything. Early birds often get the best selection of pastries, as many bakeries sell out of popular items. For those hunting for deals or unique offerings, ask about daily specials or seasonal items, which often showcase the bakery’s creativity and use of fresh, local ingredients. 

    Supporting local businesses goes beyond purchases; follow your favorite bakeries on social media, share your experiences, and become a part of their community. This support helps the bakeries thrive, enriches your connection to Nashville’s culinary scene, and gets your mouth watering long before your trip to Music City.

    A Sweet Farewell

    Close up of a person’s hands pushing and stretching fresh dough
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    There’s something magical about the moment you discover a new favorite treat, the kind of joy that’s meant to be shared. Nashville’s bakeries can be places to satisfy cravings, but they’re spots where memories are made, whether you’re sharing a dozen cupcakes with friends or savoring a solo moment with a coffee and croissant. We encourage you to keep exploring, tasting, and enjoying all the delicious experiences these bakeries offer.

    Ready for a Real Treat?

    While you can easily indulge in the sweeter side of Nashville by visiting any of these top-rated bakeries, the real treat comes with where you decide to lay your head at night. Whether you prefer to be right in the middle of the action or somewhere with a little more peace and quiet, Nashville Luxury Stay has the place for you. Enjoy unique designs with all of the comforts of home. When you book your stay with us, you’ll be so comfortable that you might just order your bakery item and coffee to go so you can enjoy more time relaxing. 

    Explore our offerings and let us help you create a Nashville vacation you won’t soon forget.

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    Meet Kush & Ana

    Nashville Enthusiasts

    We are Kush & Ana Ratwani. We moved to Nashville in 2020 for Kush’s fellowship at Vanderbilt. When we moved here, the once vibrant music city, full of aspiring songwriters trying to be the next Carrie Underwood and pedal taverns full of brides to be was in a state of hibernation due to COVID. However, that was short-lived, and Nashville is now back to full speed! 

    We have loved living in Nashville so much so over the last few years that we even got married here in 2021! We feel Nashville has so much to offer, and it would take months to experience everything. From boutique shops to James Beard award-winning restaurants, who can forget live music every night on Broadway?

    We started “Grits & Grace” to blog about all of our favorite spots, highlighting why we love Nashville and why we firmly believe it’s the best city in the country! 

    Let us be your local tour guides on your journey to the Music City. 

    Kush & Ana Ratwani

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