TLDR: A Dundalk institution closes its doors, but the flavors and memories will stick with me forever. It's truly the end of an era for Herman's Bakery. My family and I have been coming here since the 80s, and hearing that they're closing at the end of March 2026 hit hard. The owners are retiring in their 70s, with no one to carry on the tradition, and you can really feel how much this place meant to the community. Herman's has always been a staple for us, especially for their strawberry shortcakes and marshmallow donuts. Those were must-haves growing up, along with their fresh rye bread and the fudge topped shortbread cookies that somehow made every holiday and birthday feel a little more special. I made one last trip about a week before closing, getting there at 7:30am on a Friday, and the line was already out the door. No surprise there. Everyone in Dundalk seemed to have the same idea. Honestly, I didn't mind the wait at all knowing this would be the last time walking through those doors. They were limiting items due to demand, but I was still able to grab two slices of strawberry shortcake, two marshmallow donuts, and a pound of those fudge shortbread cookies. And just like always, everything tasted exactly how I remembered. No drop off, no shortcuts, just consistently great baked goods to the very end. It's rare to find a place that stays this consistent for decades, and even rarer for it to be such a big part of so many people's lives. Dundalk won't be the same without Herman's, but I'm grateful for all the years and memories. Wishing the owners a well deserved and happy retirement. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I gave this store a 2 because they need some renovations. I understand of nostalgia and holding onto what made them famous, but a little renovation won't hurt. Besides the renovations, it did have an old building odor, which if you're new (like me) it's very off putting. The desserts were nice looking and rich, I got a slice rather slither of carrot and double chocolate cake, both for a total $8. I'll say if you like strawberry shortcake this is the place for you because they had a bunch of those lol. They had a case for italian cookies and other pastries like donut and danishes. read more

These are some of the best donuts I've ever had, best in Baltimore, and such a hidden gem!! The donuts are so fluffy and not too sweet. The chocolate glaze was delishhhhh. The glazed was really yummy too! Need to try more of their baked goods. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Variety of donuts - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Hermans Bakery and Catering has been around for a while, and this old-school bakery offers various cakes, custom cakes, cupcakes, strawberry shortcakes, baked goods, etc. We stopped by after having lunch in the area, as we saw that the lot was full. We picked up: +a glazed twist doughnut - this was okay; probably best when you go there for fresh ones in the early A.M. +Boston cream doughnuts - this was delicious - nice chocolate frosting with a generous amount of cream inside +a seasonal decorated Santa gingerbread cookie - loved how this cookie looked! The gingerbread cookie wasn't bad either, with a nice spiciness to it +a strawberry shortcake - the strawberries were still slightly frozen, but the cake itself was pretty tasty; they do use a lot of whipped cream! There was already a wrap-around line inside, but it moved quickly. Staff were friendly and efficient! Private lot available for your vehicle. +good treats +seasonal items +friendly & efficient service read more

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I personally have feelings of nostalgia with this place, so I might be a bit bias.... When I was a kid, I would go with my mother to Golden Ring Mall, and was always excited to get a Boston Cream Pie doughnut from Herman's. That mall doesn't exist anymore, but the main Herman's shop does, and they are putting out loads of delicious treats daily! Thanks for always being delicious Herman's. You add menu items, but you also keep things the same when it works. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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I graduated high school in 1994 and my grandmother provided the cake for my party. That cake came from Herman's. When my sister got engaged and had a wedding shower, that cake came from Herman's. While I have been Dundalk Strong my entire life, when I found my independence and moved to Old Dundalk and needed a special dessert, I went to Herman's. When my boyfriend found his birth family, and his newfound niece had surgery, we took her a small strawberry shortcake. Last week, when my beloved group of friends decided to get together for... I actually can't remember and that's such a wonderful feeling because we get together so often that sometimes the events run together... oh right, just a random group/family dinner... we got a smearcase. Did you know that smearcase is a Baltimore delicacy? "Smearcase is a traditional American cheesecake variety originating from Baltimore, Maryland. The base for the cake is usually made with a combination of flour, baking powder, sugar, oil, eggs, and salt; while the custardy filling is usually made with a combination of cream cheese, sugar, milk, flour, vanilla, and eggs. As a final touch, smearcase is dusted with cinnamon before serving. When compared with standard American cheesecakes, smearcase should have a lighter and less sugary flavor, while the crust is more cake-like. It's usually cut into large rectangular pieces before serving." We didn't have it with cinnamon though. We went across the street to Aldi and bought some blackberries. It was a huge hit. The thing about Herman's is... when I go inside and I see how much of the space isn't in use, I get the feeling that it's best years are behind them. When people can get pretty much any dessert in a supermarket bakery, independently owned places struggle to make the sales, which means they struggle to hire employees, which means they have less product, which means half the store is empty. And this is a shame. And I may have only been here for the smearcase, but have you had the marshmallow donuts? The black bottoms? They're famous for that strawberry shortcake, and it's not even expensive. Please, please duck into this place. You are sure to find something wonderful. Don't wait until it's a special occasion. Any day that you buy a dessert here will be special. Go. Go now. read more

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LOVE THIS PLACE! They have such an amazing selection of items ranging from cookies to customized cakes! I have tried their donuts, strawberry shortcakes, and some of their fruit pastry offerings. Everything I have gotten is delicious. I have never ordered a custom cake so I am not sure the pricing for that but everything else I think is reasonable priced. The biggest downside is that the lines sometimes get so long and everyone is standing in one line. So sometimes, several staff/people are yelling their orders over each other. It makes the experience a bit overwhelming. This is especially true if this is your first time or the 45th time but not sure what you really want this can be big turnoff. Just be sure you have an idea and be prepared to stand in line for some time around major holidays. read more

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The old woman I don't know if she a manager or whatever, She is racist AF. The 15-16 year olds working with her are ratchet and look at you like you're crazy IF YOU DARE ASK FOR ANYTHING! The store is incredibly nasty the floors never look clean, everything is overly crowded, flies everywhere and the cake look like they've been sitting there for years. THEY NEED NEW MANAGEMENT ASAP! read more

I finally made it to this bakery. I've heard mixed reviews about it so I got to try it for myself. The young lady at the front desk was extremely friendly and helpful with offering suggestions for my first time. I ordered 1 red velvet cupcake and a glazed twist. That is one of my favorite flavor cupcakes but I was not a fan of this one. The icing was hard and the cupcake didn't seem fresh. However the glazed twist was fresh and delicious! I would visit again but stick to the doughnuts and perhaps try their cakes read more

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Save your money. They do not even make all of the items they sell. Poor customer service.

I love baking and I love visiting different bakeries to see what their specialty items are and always sample & buy. I've been dealing with this bakery for decades with my family. I know they're items are delicious! Just didn't know if they could make the cake & decorate for reasonable price. I called first and spoke with a woman who said they could make it to send them a copy of the picture of what I wanted. I did & they requested I bring it in to the store. I did & spoke with another woman who went through every detail with me and the price. I ordered devil's food with regular icing and decorations as you see in my pic. The cake was moist and delicious. The decorations were perfect! I ordered it & it was ready in 48 hrs. Other bakeries (yiayias) who we use alot for personal & professional gatherings said on December 1 that they would not be taking any more orders for this year and they would not make it! Second strike for Yiayias! Sadly I'm not sure if we will give them a chance for the 3rd strike. I didn't need the cake until 12/18/22, plenty of time to make cake. Herman's is easy to get to right off Merritt Blvd with plenty of parking. Handicap accessible. They make specialty cakes and cookies and confections. Tip: try the marshmallow doughnuts with & without chocolate , they are divine and you won't be disappointed-you'll probably be back for more. I definitely recommend this bakery! I'm very particular about the places I recommend so this recommendation is solid! Enjoy:-). read more

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What a joke, flies in the dessert case, nasty and old looking food and rude staff. We walked in and they literally turned their backs on us and didn't speak or greet the entire time we were there. We wouldn't spend a red cent in this place. read more

GOOD TO KNOW THAT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND APPRECIATION IS ALIVE AND WELL IN DUNDALK This Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 9:56am, I stopped in on my way home from work to pick up a morning treat, a sticky bun. Having looked around and looking in the case, I selected a particular one that I wanted. To make an obnoxious story short, I was told that "we sell from the back of the tray first". Well I got the two smallest buns in the case. Not that I really need a "bigger" bun, I just wanted a specific one. Nope not today. I asked for a white paper bag to put a piece of birthday cake in to present it as a birthday gift. I was told, nope, it won't fit, when I asked to buy it, nope not selling. I really don't want to waste any additional time on writing this but the you should know that if you're looking for customer service and customer appreciation... look elsewhere. read more

I always look for an opportunity to support a small business. I was out this way and was in need of some fresh baguettes to make a poboys. I was heading to Giant and saw Herman's sitting on the corner and remembered how much I wanted to try them. I quickly turned around and headed in that direction. I parked and took a picture of the gorgeous decor outside before going in. I looked around searching for the baguettes or bread options as I observed what other delicacies they offered. There was an array of treats and sweets but one very important thing was missing. What I really needed, an employee! I have no clue where anyone was. there were a couple of ladies sitting around but I don't think that they were employees. As I approached the counter I did see that there was a lady talking with her back towards me. I waited a few and looked around and didn't notice they didn't have some brains behind the counter but still no one came to assist. Hmm, I guess if I saw what I needed maybe I would have waited longer and actually shouted so someone to come help me but I decided just to go to Giant instead and left. I'd say maybe they'll do better next time but I'm good. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Outside Decor - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

This place is amazing. A Baltimore institution. Prices aren't cheap but you get quality. Their strawberry shortcake is nothing short of perfection. Literally the best cake I've had in the last ten years. The chocolate topped cookies (their version of Bergers ) are delicious as well. Definitely recommend. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Strawberry shortcake. Awesome. - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I drive from harco to come to this bakery! Hands down the best and super great staff.

My experience- I Pre Ordered a 1/4 sheet cake with filling. I sent them a picture and the woman I spoke with over the phone told me that the cake was simple and wouldn't be a problem. I originally told them they didn't need to write on the cake because we had ordered a cake topper. Our topper wasn't arriving In time and I called two days ahead of pick up and asked if they could change the order to have writing on it. The person who I spoke with couldn't find my order but then told me he did and wrote it down. The day of pick up the cake had the wrong color. And had no writing on it. Which I left the color alone but asked about the writing and come to find out they never wrote it down. But it was a simple fix up until they just kind of scribbled on the cake and messed it up. I just went home and scraped it off. Now the taste of the cake wasn't good at all. The raspberry filling was bitter. Almost tasted sour and the actual cake was so dry. I feel like the employees were very overwhelmed and stressed out. Some didn't even know what they were doing. Maybe train some of the employees better. And check the fruit before adding it to a cake. read more

I just thought I'd let the "25% of black customers" know that this place is definitely racist! When I called back and told of my experience I was told "I'm sorry. There must have been a misunderstanding." That's it. That's all I was offered. But I went back in the store TWICE to make sure there was NO misunderstanding. In addition, the person I dealt with lied on me and instead of admitting she was in the wrong. Saying " the customer (me) didn't want the discount offered." I'm very disappointed by my experience a second and last time. If you want to get treated like crap this is a great place to go! read more

My son brought me this doughnut home from work Amazon, for a job well done, I can say the doughnut was soft and tasty, cant wait to try others from your shop. read more

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My grandma lived around the corner from this bakery and for years, when we came to visit her we always went and got a strawberry shortcake and a marshmallow donut. We don't go here as often anymore since she passed years ago. But when we do get anywhere near Baltimore, we're taking a trip to this bakery. This place is amazing and truly a hidden gem read more

Probably the best homemade strawberry shortcake I've ever had. The strawberry filing in between was delicious. I picked a glazed donut that was just a bit too sweet for my taste. The customer service was great and the cake was ready on time for pick up. read more

My family will never buy another single thing from your bakery. Today is my daughter's eighth birthday. And I planned and ordered a very special cake from you guys almost 2 weeks ago and paid the security deposit and my husband comes there this morning to pick it up and we are told you have no cake for us. Now we are left without a cake two hours before our child's birthday party. An absolute disgrace. I don't recommend anyone purchasing from your bakery and I will be letting everyone know Just how poor your service is. I would of picked zero stars! Thank you , Herman's, for delivering with an apology and making us a cake for Valentine's Day. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I am originally from NJ and now love I MD. I came here today after passing by this bakery many times on my way to work. The outside decor is fairly outdated and when I went indoors the inside of the bakery was equally as outdated. It also had a weird musky smell when I first entered. I ordered a key lime pie cupcake and a strawberry shortcake cupcake. Both cupcakes were really good. I think if this location updated it's decor it was be on point. I would come back for the baked goods. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Key lime pie cupcake and strawberry shortcake cupcake - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Been a loyal customer for over 40 years and my parents as well. Ordered my wedding cake from the Golden Ring location in 1981.Have ;ived in West Virginia for 35 years. When we go to Baltimore to tend the graves about 5x per year, we always take a few coolers and stop by the bakery on the way home. No problems at all. On Sunday, my husband picked up the order but the strawberry shortcake and smearcase were not refrigerated, but insteas sitting on the counter. The whipped topping came off in chunks. When I called to complain, no one called me back. I called again and "Mister" Herman first accused me of being AI. ??? Who uses "Mister" instead of a first name? Long story short, no apology, no offer of another cake next time we came up. It's our fault and we should have ordered a frozen cake. Guess we have been lucky the past 150+ times. Poor, poor customer service. read more

I ordered 6 dozen black bottoms yesterday and picked them up today and they are old A 85 dollar order read more

This place is a classic- the pastries and donuts are delish ! Had to wait awhile to take my order- the cashier was not that fast but they were nice - cakes yummy too read more

I had never ordered a cake from Herman's Bakery before because I live really close to another Baltimore City famous family run bakery (on Belair Road) which is very good but they could NOT accommodate my request for my BIG birthday party. I wanted cupcakes and a single cake as the topper delivered to my party venue & my nearby bakery informed me that they ONLY DELVER wedding cakes?? I was ordering almost 100 cupcakes but it's not their policy?? Herman's Bakery to the rescue! Not only did they deliver (for a small fee), the counter girls were very helpful in finding out exactly what I wanted. The even had a "bling" cupcake stand for me (to "rent"). All told, all my guests (& I) thoroughly enjoyed the moist treats and it was worth having to leave my "neighborhood bakery"! read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - My delicious 50&Fab birthday treats from Herman's Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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The food is good the help is lacking we purchased pastries and the pastries were stuck on top of each other without any paper and actually pushed into the box so when we opened it, we had a solid box of pastries. Not very happy with it. I called the store to complain, and they couldn't take the time to talk to me on the phone. Eventually they put me on hold and it went into voicemail. they really need to improve their service. After going in to pick up the remaining of my order, I was able to speak to a gentleman whose name is Mr. Herman. He was very apologetic and offered me replacement donuts and he said he's sorry that is happen that should never happen. I am very happy with these results and I just want to say thank you Because of this, I am raising my ratings read more

Best Strawberry Shortcake ever, I have been buying them for 20 years and they are still the same quality. When you walk into Hermans you can't help but smile looking at all of the delicious baked goods. Best tarts around, I personally like them apple and cherry. Thanks Hermans for making my daughter's birthday special for 20 years. read more

Thank you Herman's for the prefect cake you created for my granddaughters birthday. She loved to see her Minnie Mouse on her cake. This cake exceeded my expectations and it was perfect. Plus it tasted as good as it looked. I will definitely use you in the future and highly recommend. Thank you again. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - I can't express at how excited I was to see the cake they created for my granddaughters birthday. - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Herman's Bakery Made a Beautiful Wedding Cake for Us! Not only was it Beautiful, but it was also Delicious! Thank You for making Our Day Special! read more

The marshmallow donuts are amazing!!! Fresh fluffy and delicious. They are open during COVID and extremely organized. You gotta check this place out. read more

Picked up a strawberry shortcake for a co-workers birthday today and the cake was delicious and looked beautiful. Everyone enjoyed a slice! Feb 27, 2024. read more

I have a cousin and his father before him come from Virginia for their smearcase not sure on spelling sorry but it is wonderful and he usually buys them out. When I go visit him I must take some or I don't think I would be welcome. Lol I also love the marshmallow donuts but it is all good. read more

UPDATE YOUR HOURS! I drove from PA twice. Once in the evening at 730, it said online you were open until 8 and you were closed at 7. Then once on my way to Florida to try to take my family members cheesecake they requested from your bakery. But again you weren't open at 7 and I couldn't wait an hour. Be respectful to your customers and provide accurate information. read more

Great donuts, great pastries. Nice staff. An institution...as much as one can be in Dundalk, anyway. It took me a long time to end up going here and countless dozens of recommendations from people...but in the end it was worth any wait. read more

I have been a customer/fan of Herman's for over 20 years. I think my all time favorite is the strawberry shortcake. Why they call it "shortcake" beats me as it is about a mile high! And don't get me started on the decorated cakes! Besides the tradition cakes, if you can think of it, they can make it! I heard recently that during the snow storm the "Cake Boss" of Food Network fame couldn't fill an order so the customer turned to Herman's that met and exceeded their expectations. And unlike Charm City Cakes, these cakes are not only gorgeous, they are affordable, and delicious. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I give them a two for service, and trust me their service wasnt all that ... Icame here on a Saturday afternoon to order a birthday cake for my daughter a week in advance but as soon as I walked through the door I started having second thoughts. I saw absolutely noone for at least 3 minutes and then a girl walked passed who I had to say hi to and ask for some help. I placed my order for a cake and a few cupcakes and paid at the same time. FF to the next Saturday, my bf piicks up the cake and brings it to my house and as soon as I opened it I saw that the icing had started to melt (whipped icing) like it had been left oyt of the refrigerator for a long time. I decided not to make it a big deal since the party was in an hour so i put it in the refrigerator till the party started. Once i cut into the cake it was ALL chocolate, which I specifically said NO CHOCOLATE! So i called them up and spoke with a Manager who was really nice and helpful. She offered to make me a yellow cake and decorate it the same way then deliver it to my house same day which I agreed to. It only took them about an hour or so maybe 2 (wasnt watching the time ) but it didnt take long tho. This gave us an opportunity for a second cake time and as soon as I cut into this cake I just knew it tasted horrible ! The cake was dense and dry, the chocolate was a bit more moist but still very dense. The cupcakes the kids hated they made a big joke about how nasty they were! The yellow cake they also didnt like but they did eat the chocolate cake. Noone asked for seconds and it was a sleepover party so they had plenty opportunities to ask for seconds if they wanted to. Woyld never order here again, although what they did was very nice hence the reason for 2 stars ... i look forward to my daughter's bdday every year to indulge in a really tasty bday cake. Was very disappointed! !!! read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Had the right cake delivered to me !! - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

How could you not stop in a place with huge ribbons on the front of the building? So we did! What we found was an average hometown bakery selling cakes, cookies, doughnuts, and other miscellaneous baked goodies. We bought a few items to taste and while good, it wasn't all that memorable. However, if you are looking for a custom decorated cake, this seems to be a great place to go as they will do their best to make something to your happiness. read more

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Had a beautiful Lego themed cake made for my nephew 6th birthday. Not only, did I get great service but the cake was delicious. Not to mention the cake being reasonably priced. Looking forward to placing future orders. read more

Hermans Bakery and Catering - Bakeries Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland