The Best Bakeries in St. Louis

Pint Size Bakery is a small shop in south St. Louis that's really making a name for itself. The shop specializes in serving up small batches of traditional treats with the best local ingredients. The shop sells a variety of muffins, cookies, brownies and scones. There are also the popular Saturday-only specials, including the delicious salted caramel croissants. Another bonus for those with food allergies: Pint Size Bakery is peanut free.

Russell's is more than just a bakery. It's also a cafe serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. And truly, everything on the menu is great, but the pastries and desserts really stand out. There's a large display case filled with giant cookies, brownies, muffins and bear claws. You can also get cake by the slice or take home a whole one. Russell's signature chocolate cake is worth every calorie.

Federhofer's Bakery in Affton has been in business for nearly 50 years and many customers keep coming back for the sweet treats served up daily. It's a favorite destination for cookies, donuts, coffee cakes, danishes and baklava. Federhofer's also offers a nice variety of special occasion and holiday cakes made to order.

Missouri Baking Company is located on The Hill so you'd expect them to be serving up Italian treats like cannoli and biscotti. But the bakery also makes some of the city's best pies, bread, stollen and turnovers. Grab an assortment of cookies or pastries to share with friends and family, or see just how many you can eat all by yourself. Missouri Baking Company takes cash only, but they do have an ATM on the premises.

Gooey Louie is different from other bakeries on this list in that it specializes in one treat: St. Louis' own gooey butter cake. Gooey Louie's cakes are handmade with all natural ingredients, which set them apart from many in the area. The bakery offers cakes in a variety of flavors including chocolate, blueberry and original. If you've never tried a gooey butter cake before, Gooey Louis is a great place to start.