Would I drive 7 hours just to pick up a order from this bakery? If you hesitate even a second with how to answer, we can't be friends. I love-love-love some pastries. Scones, cookies, tarts, doughnuts, just keep the carbs and sugar coming. And upon my last visit to the Burg, I walked up on this place. Upon discovering that you have to place orders ahead of time (for a Friday/Saturday pickup), I immediately added a reminder note to place a order before returning. Thus my first interaction with the team here. Due to other commitments on Friday, and leaving early on Saturday, I knew if a Thursday pickup wasn't a option then I would not be enjoying anything. I sent a email and within 24 hours Alicia responded and graciously said they could make it work. Then, I just started clicking. 2 of this, 1 of that, wait what flavors are those? I might of been a touch hungry while ordering, but honestly that wouldn't have made a difference. Knowing the two doing the baking (take a moment to read the "About Us" page) and what they offered (e.g. butterscotch bourbon oatmeal cream pie, cinnamon streusel coffee cake, gooey butter cookies, sugar cookies-with sprinkles, strawberry lemon scones...wait, this was my order I picked up!), I came with a high level of anticipation. I walked up to the window, rang the bell, and held my breath. What if they had forgotten me? What if my order had somehow disappeared between Augusta and the Burg? What if...almost immediately Alicia opened the service window. My order was boxed and ready to go. No disrespect to the photos they share on social media handles, but that is just not enough to fully prepare one for the sight awaiting in that clear top on the box. The multi colors of the sugar cookie, the thickness and weight of the oatmeal cream pies (yes, I ordered 2), and of course the heavenly aroma of it all as one deeply inhales. To save myself the embarrassment of shamelessly eating everything like Cookie Monster in the Nabisco factory, I waited till I was alone to open this treasure trove of goodness. The butterscotch and bourbon, they go together like the final couple of a dating series finale. I am soooo glad I didn't eat a meal before this. That alone almost took me out for the afternoon. Again, the heftiness of the pie is a baking wonder. But oh the moistness (no, I am not afraid to use that word) of the pie and the creme. You don't need milk or coffee to wash it down. But I do suggest a cup of something on hand as you might choke inhaling it with such a swiftness. Then the cookie samples began. My compliment? Everything; flavor, texture, airness. My complaint? Not purchasing more. There should be a nudge that pops up on anything you only order one of that reads, "Are you sure you only want one?" But I digress. And also take a nap. Can't wait for my next order in March. I will add that they do walk up items that do not require pre order. They also have a far more extensive list of pastries (sweet and savory), breads, and custom cakes that you can order. If you are anywhere near Harrisonburg (home or passing through), treat yourself! read more

We are so glad we chose Bittersweet Bakery to make our wedding cake! From the start, the experience was amazing. We loved the tasting beforehand and were so impressed by how many delicious flavors there were to choose from. It made it hard to pick just a few. The baker was so easy to work with and recreated exactly the idea we had in mind for our cake. It turned out beautifully and was perfect for our wedding day. Bittersweet Bakery is such a gem in Harrisonburg, and we're so thankful they were part of our celebration. read more

We had Bittersweet Bakery do our wedding cake and it turned out phenomenal! During the planning process, Bittersweet accommodated several tastings, and accommodated special requests/decorations we had for our cake. Their communication throughout the planning process was prompt, despite them being very busy. Highly recommend Bittersweet for your wedding or any other special event! read more

Bittersweet Bakery - Custom Cakes Near Me - Harrisonburg, Virginia

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I am not sure that I have ever seen this business appear open since the pandemic. This bakery does not seem to offer any walk-in opportunities and operates as pick-up only through pre-order and a window. I am surprised that they can afford to stay in business with this model. If I want a pastry, I will go somewhere that offers walk-in business as there are many other options in town. read more

Drove two extra hours to pick up a cake. It was so worth it for the customer service alone. The cake was beautiful and tasted WONDERFUL! It was there simple chocolate cake with Oreo filling and it melted in your mouth if that's a thing The frosting was marvelous. I usually skip but this frosting was so delicious, I could not get enough . Thank you Bittersweet Bakery! read more

THE best macarons, pretzel bites and coffee cake I've ever eaten. They also make amazing decorated cakes that look and taste great. The ladies who own the bakery are extremely easy to work with and are very personable! I highly recommend this bakery to everyone who lives in or visits Harrisonburg! read more

I promise you will not find two ladies more passionate about the field of pastry. Erica and Alicia have years of experience and are dedicated to ensuring you receive the best cakes and pastries imaginable. Whether you are looking for a tasty treat or in need of a spectacular cake for your special event, these ladies will deliver above and beyond your expectations. read more

I have to say that the best biscuit I've ever had came from these ladies! Garlic, cheddar, mmm, so good. Just had the Thai tea torte with lemon curd on top and it was delicious! I look forward to trying more tasty pastries! read more

The most delicious everything!! The cookies are all good, the pepperoni rolls are to die for and the garlic cheddar biscuits - oh my, my, my!!! Very talented ladies who are both easy to work with and their prices are reasonable!! Go get you some today!! read more

Bittersweet Bakery provided mini macarons and mini cupcakes for our wedding. When I initially contacted them, they already had several orders for the weekend of our wedding, but they were willing to work with us to get our order in if we picked it up/set it up ourselves, so we appreciated them squeezing us in! Not only were the little treats they prepared very attractive (which is important for photos, obviously), but the goods themselves were delicious. They were fantastic and made everything very easy for us. Great job, Bittersweet Bakery! read more

Erica and Alicia work very hard to make quality products that taste even better than they look -- and they enjoy it! They met while working together at the Biltmore in Asheville, NC, and they bring a wide range of experience to their establishment, which is a dream coming true for each of them. read more