Who can resist the baked aroma of buttery pastries, sugary pies and warm bread. This is such a popular scent, you’ll often find a selection of baked good “flavors” in candle stores to light at home to mimic that sweet, cozy scent. Central Valley is home to skillful bakers to consider for a beautifully decorated cake, custom cookies, or for a naughty, mid-afternoon treat just because...

Max’s Cookie Company. This Visalia sweet success at 5127 W. Goshen Avenue is self-described as “one of the Central Valley's most popular and successful scratch bakeries located in the beautiful city of Visalia by The Lakes!” It began as a corporate-only bakery, but eventually began baking for the public once the secret of its delicious offerings became in demand. It also owns and operates Bothof's Bakery, and Max’s baked goods. Both Bothof’s and Max’s are available in coffee shops, cafes, businesses and catering companies throughout the valley. 

Goodies Cookies. Founded in 2004, owners Natalie Fronczek and Sandy Gaalswyk, pride themselves on their “delicious oversized cookies, cookie bouquets and gifts.” Find them at 1613 E. Noble Avenue in Visalia. Despite its name and fortunately for everyone, Goodies Cookies offers much more than cookies including brownies, cupcakes and French macarons. 

Pastry Delight Portuguese Bakery & Café. If you’ve ever been to Portugal, you no doubt have savored and experienced the delightful sweet treats prepared by the country’s talented European bakers. Lucky for you Pastry Delight Portuguese Bakery & Café at 160 S Laspina St. brings a little bit of Lisbon to Tulare. Lots of “sweet” reviews can be found on its Yelp page. 

Sweet Palette Bakery. Looking for sweet and savory treats? Sweet Palette Bakery, a fan favorite in Hanford has a wide array of treats. Go for something sweet and delicious like a cookie or a cupcake. Or try something savory that’ll make your mouth water like a Bierock or a Philly Steak Quiche. You can find them at 2637 N 11th Ave, Suite 101. 

Bella Rose Bakery & Café. Want to get lunch and dessert in one spot? Bella Rose Bakery & Café located in Kingsburg is the perfect option for you. Have a light refreshing lunch and then enjoy a decadent cupcake or cookie. They can even accommodate catering needs. Visit them at 1537 Lincoln St in Kingsburg. 

If you are searching for a new home, San Joaquin Valley Homes is still busy building homes throughout the Central Valley. Our model homes are open daily and virtual tours are available on our website for your convenience. Our model hours are Sunday and Monday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit www.sjvhomes.com for more information.