La Belle Vie Phoenix may be geographically far from France, but savoring bona fide Parisian provisions is closer than you think. At La Belle Vie, French-born baker Nathas Kraus purveys authentic European pastries, fresh bread and sweet treats. Get goodies like pain au chocolat and kouign amann at the Gilbert Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, where eager carb lovers consistently line up for a taste of “the good life.” 222 N. Ash St., Gilbert, 480-696-0721, labelleviebakery.com
Urban Cookies This celebrated bakeshop’s merits depend on more than just a (damn good) cookie. Sure, that cookie is made with wholesome ingredients that are often vegan and gluten-free, but Urban Cookies is also dedicated to giving back. Partnerships with local nonprofits and mentorship programs are cornerstones of the concept. So next time you stop by for that cookie (or doughnut or cupcake or dessert bar), know that you’re also supporting a socially responsible small business. What could be sweeter? 2325 N. Seventh St, Phoenix, 602-451-4335, urbancookies.com
Sweet Dee’s If you have a sweet tooth, scroll through Sweet Dee’s social media feed at your own risk. Each cake, pie, cookie and doughnut Danielle “Sweet Dee” O’Day develops looks as good as it tastes. Marked by bright colors and seasonal themes, each of Sweet Dee’s desserts is worth celebrating. You won’t need a special occasion to treat yourself, but the bakery and café does specialize in creative custom orders. 7350 E. Stetson Dr., Scottsdale, 480-994-6733, sweetdees.com
Hope’s Artisan Bread Walk into this Litchfield Park gem and you’ll be cloaked in cinnamon, chocolate and sourdough scents, making it impossible to leave empty-handed. Hope Mendrin puts out more than seven varieties of sourdough bread, including a killer cranberry-walnut loaf. Also impossible to ignore: cinnamon rolls, coffee cake, blueberry muffins, cookies, cheesecake and quiche. 13331 W. Indian School Rd., Litchfield Park, 623-401-2421, hopesartisanbread.com
East Valley
Phoenix
Scottsdale
West Valley
The Best Bakery in Each of the 4 Corners of the Valley
Editorial StaffJuly 1, 2022
