Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe

In the picturesque town of Waterbury, Vermont, where local charm and quality craftsmanship are deeply valued, you’ll find a delightful culinary haven: Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe. This beloved establishment is far more than just a bakery; it's a warm and inviting community hub where the aroma of freshly baked goods and brewing coffee fills the air, creating an irresistible draw for locals and visitors alike. Named after the owner's golden retriever, Henderson, this spot embodies the cozy, friendly spirit that Vermonters cherish.

Since opening its doors in 2016, Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe has quickly become a cornerstone of the Waterbury food scene. It’s a place where every pastry, every breakfast sandwich, and every cup of coffee is prepared with meticulous care and a genuine passion for baking. The owner, Jessica Wright, trained at The Culinary Institute of America and honed her skills in her family's restaurants, bringing a wealth of expertise and a commitment to homemade goodness to Waterbury. This dedication to "made-from-scratch" quality is evident in every bite, setting Hender's apart as a true artisanal bakery.

For those living in the Green Mountain State, finding a local business that prioritizes quality ingredients, often sourced from within Vermont, is a significant plus. Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe takes pride in using Vermont products like Cabot butter, King Arthur Flour, and Mansfield Milk, ensuring that their creations not only taste incredible but also support the local economy. Whether you're starting your day with a perfectly crafted breakfast sandwich on a house-made challah bun, indulging in one of their famous French crullers, or simply grabbing a coffee from a local roaster, Hender's offers a taste of authentic Vermont.

It's the kind of charming, locally-run operation where you can feel the care put into every item. From classic baked goods that evoke a sense of nostalgia to new, inventive creations that delight the palate, Hender's provides a diverse range of treats. Beyond the delectable food, it’s the welcoming atmosphere and the dedication to consistent quality that makes this cafe a regular stop for many. If you're a Vermonter seeking a genuine local experience combined with exceptional baked goods and coffee, Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe in Waterbury is undoubtedly a place you’ll want to frequent.

Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe is conveniently situated at 22 N Main St, Waterbury, VT 05676, USA. This prime location places it right in the heart of downtown Waterbury, a vibrant and easily accessible town in central Vermont. Waterbury is well-known for its charming main street, local businesses, and as a popular stop for those traveling between Burlington and Montpelier.

Being on North Main Street means Hender's is readily accessible for both local Waterbury residents and those passing through. The bakery occupies a cute historical house, adding to its unique local character. For parking, there is often 15-minute parking available on Winooski Street and free parking all along Main Street, making it convenient for quick stops or for enjoying a more leisurely visit. In the warmer months, Hender's also offers outdoor seating, allowing patrons to enjoy their treats in the fresh Vermont air. This central and welcoming location makes Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe an easy and appealing destination for anyone in the Waterbury area and beyond.

• Classic Baked Goods: Including Hender's Blueberry Muffins (made with wild Maine blueberries), Sour Cream Coffee Cake, Jam-filled Pecan Oat Bars, Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches, Fruit Kuchen, Peanut Butter Bars (vegan option), Granola Bars (gluten-free), Tres Leches, Mini Chocolate Birthday Cakes, and Classic Swiss Cake Rolls.
• French Crullers: A specialty, offered with various glazes such as Vermont Maple Glaze (their signature), Cinnamon Sugar, Chocolate Sea Salt, Strawberry Glaze, and Lemon Pistachio Glaze.
• Breakfast Sandwiches: Served on their house-made challah buns, featuring ingredients like brioche-like buns.
• Savory Lunch Options: Including items like Smash Burgers made with local ground beef and a famous salami sandwich.
• Beverages: A variety of espresso drinks (using award-winning espresso from Beanstock Coffee), drip coffee (from Burlington roaster Earthback Coffee), hot teas (from VT Artisan Tea Company), iced coffee, chocolate milk, Golden Milk (caffeine-free), and Spindrift sparkling water.
• Packaged Baked Goods: Offering wholesale items like GF Maple Meringues, Biscotti Di Prato (almond biscotti), and Ginger Snaps.
• Dog Treats: Peanut Butter treats for canine companions.
• Special Orders: Accepted via email for custom requests and number cakes (with advance notice, typically two weeks).
• Online and In-Person Ordering: Providing flexibility for customers to place orders.
• Outdoor Seating: Available during warmer months for counter service.
• Gift Cards: Available for purchase, making them a perfect gift for locals.

• Made from Scratch Daily: Everything offered at Hender's is made from scratch and baked fresh every single day, ensuring the highest quality and freshness.
• Signature French Crullers: They are particularly "known for" their light, airy, and dreamy French Crullers, especially the Vermont Maple Glaze variety, which are a must-try.
• Exceptional Breakfast Sandwiches: Praised by customers for "really awesome" brioche-like buns that are "kind of like a biscuit on the bottom," making them a notable highlight.
• Commitment to Local Ingredients: Hender's prides itself on using Vermont products like Cabot butter/dairy, King Arthur Flour, Mansfield Milk, VT maple syrup, and local fruits, which resonates strongly with local consumers.
• Charming and Cozy Atmosphere: Described as a "cute spot" in a "historical house," providing a warm and welcoming environment for customers to enjoy their treats.
• Small, Local Run Operation with Care: Customers note the "lot of care" put into their products, reflecting the dedication of a locally owned and operated business.
• Variety of Offerings: Beyond just baked goods, they offer breakfast and lunch items, a full coffee bar, and even treats for dogs, catering to diverse needs.
• Owner-Operated with Culinary Expertise: Owner/Operator Jessica Wright, a Culinary Institute of America graduate, brings a high level of skill and passion to the bakery.
• Wholesale Options: They offer packaged baked goods for wholesale, allowing other local businesses to carry their popular items.
• Expanding Business: With plans to break ground for a large addition in March 2025, including expanded outdoor deck seating and kitchen space, indicating growth and commitment to the community.

Address: 22 N Main St, Waterbury, VT 05676, USA

Phone: (802) 560-7110

Mobile Phone: +1 802-560-7110

Please note: Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe does not accept orders over the phone for special requests; these should be submitted via email (hendersbakeshop@gmail.com) at least two weeks in advance.

Hours of Operation: Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sundays 8 AM - 1 PM.

Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe is an outstanding choice for locals in Waterbury, Vermont, and the surrounding regions, perfectly embodying the spirit of a cherished community establishment. Its suitability stems from a blend of genuine local charm, commitment to quality, and a diverse offering that caters to everyday needs and special treats. Vermonters appreciate authentic, small-batch operations that pour care into their craft, and Hender's delivers precisely that with its "made from scratch" philosophy and meticulous attention to detail.

The bakery’s dedication to using local Vermont ingredients, such as Cabot butter and King Arthur Flour, resonates deeply with the state’s emphasis on supporting local agriculture and businesses. This not only ensures superior taste and freshness but also strengthens the local economy, a value highly regarded by community members. The consistent rave reviews about items like their "amazing" French Crullers and "really awesome" breakfast sandwiches highlight the high standard of their culinary creations, ensuring that locals receive exceptional quality with every visit.

Furthermore, the cozy and welcoming atmosphere, situated in a "cute historical house" on Main Street, provides a comfortable gathering spot. Whether it’s a quick morning coffee run, a leisurely breakfast, or simply picking up treats, the inviting environment fosters a sense of community. The presence of friendly staff and the owner's personal touch add to the appeal of supporting a truly local and dedicated business. For Vermonters seeking a bakery and cafe that offers delicious, high-quality, locally-conscious products within a warm and familiar setting, Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe is an undisputed local favorite.

Hender's Bake Shop & Cafe

22 N Main St, Waterbury, VT 05676, USA