As we continue sludging our way through the winter months, couldn’t everyone use a bit of sugar therapy? Of course, there’s no denying the power of decadent chocolate and handmade cakes, pastries, cookies, and more. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it!
Luckily, the Greater Merrimack Valley has an incredible and diverse selection of locally owned, gourmet candy shops and professional bakeries that always seem to have something sweet and scrumptious in the oven. So, if you’re looking for a few made-from-scratch delights, you need to stop by these excellent shops.
Sweet Lydia’s (160 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA)
First up, we have Sweet Lydia’s, a gourmet candy shop in Lowell, Massachusetts, where all products are handmade from scratch. Yup, you read that right–handmade treats! Sweet Lydia’s actually began as a kitchen dedicated to making candy care packages for friends and family.
Since then, the candy shop has become a Merrimack Valley favorite. Since the various chocolates, caramels, toffees, and other decadent treats are made in-house, you never quite know what you’ll find when you visit. Oh, and be sure to pick a gift box for that special someone in your life.
Sugar Coated Bakery (1794 Bridge St Unit 13A, Dracut, MA)
If you’re looking for specialty cupcakes and cakes, the Sugar Coated Bakery in Dracut is absolutely a must-stop. The bakeshop has even been featured on various TV programs, such as The Big Bake and Chopped Sweets on the Food Network and Sugar Rush on Netflix.
One of the shop’s main focuses is creating incredible custom cakes, cupcakes, and pastries for events, such as weddings and birthday parties (you know, the usual). And, as true cake masters, the bakers at Sugar Coated Bakery are often able to create marvelously designed cakes–you may even find a Star Wars or Harry Potter-themed cake in the mix!
The bakeshop also offers its own selection of macarons, cake pops, and royal icing cookies. Walk-in sales are welcome, but a 1-2 weeks notice for custom orders is highly encouraged.
Olumpos Bakery (214 Broadway Street, Lowell, MA)
Olumpos Bakery in Lowell is a family-owned bakery that has served Greek and Italian baked goods to the Merrimack Valley area since 1915. The bakery uses the freshest ingredients available to create mouthwatering menu items filled with years of cultural heritage.
Here, visitors can find freshly baked baklava, cookies, and many other of your favorite Greek and Italian pastries, many of which are available by the dozen. The shop also offers its guests homemade cakes and cheesecakes. In addition to the savory pastry selection, the bakery also bakes fresh daily and lunch and dinner meals, such as pizza, soup, sandwiches, and more.
