- Attraction: Bakery on State
- Location: 436 N 9th St, Manitowoc, WI 54220
- Industry: Bakery
- Website: Facebook Page
Every small Wisconsin town claims to have amazing baked goods, but Bakery on State actually delivers on that promise with an impressive array of made-from-scratch treats that’ll make you forget about every chain donut shop you’ve ever visited.
This family-run bakery sits quietly in downtown Manitowoc, just two blocks off the Ice Age Trail, where hikers and locals alike discover what many consider the county’s finest bakery offerings.
You’ll find everything from traditional donuts and artisan breads to unique creations like their famous cronuts and mysterious buttercream-filled pastries called “knee caps.”
The bakery specializes in fresh, daily-made items using only the finest ingredients, and their reputation for wedding cakes and custom decorative cookies has made them a go-to destination for special occasions throughout the region.
Signature Treats That Keep People Coming Back
The Famous Knee Caps: These aren’t your typical pastry name, but these buttercream-filled delights have achieved near-legendary status among regular customers. You’ll understand why hikers make special detours just to try these unique treats that have people planning return visits before they’ve even finished eating.
Related
More in Wisconsin
The Best Wood-Fired Pizza And A Delicious Apple Brandy Smash Burger Are Hiding At This Sun Prairie Brewpub
Keep Exploring →Apple Fritters: Made fresh daily, these generous pastries strike the perfect balance between crispy exterior and tender, apple-filled interior. The fritters here consistently earn praise for their size, flavor, and that satisfying texture contrast that makes them impossible to resist.
Cronuts and Specialty Donuts: The raspberry cronut stands out as a customer favorite, combining the flaky layers of a croissant with donut-style glazing and fresh fruit filling. Traditional donuts shine here too, with varieties like strawberry cream cheese croissants and red velvet cake pops offering creative twists on classic favorites.
Artisan Breads: The sourdough bread delivers that distinctive tangy flavor with excellent texture that makes it perfect for sandwiches or toast. Vienna bread offers the ideal combination of crusty exterior and soft, pillowy interior that serious bread lovers appreciate. The rye bread comes packed with seeds and robust flavor that sets it apart from typical grocery store varieties.
Cherry Turnovers and Pastries: These flaky pastries come filled with generous amounts of fruit and showcase the bakery’s commitment to quality ingredients. The lemon bars provide bright citrus flavor with well-balanced sweetness, while crullers offer that classic tender donut texture.
Atmosphere & Experience
Small-Town Charm: The moment you step inside, the fresh bakery aroma envelopes you completely, creating that authentic small-town bakery experience that’s becoming increasingly rare. The storefront maintains a clean, welcoming appearance that lets the baked goods take center stage.
More in Wisconsin
Solve History’s Greatest Disasters At This Thrilling Wisconsin Dells Escape Room Adventure
Discover MoreDisplay Case Selection: The variety of items in the front display case demonstrates the bakery’s range and attention to presentation. Everything looks fresh and appealing, from glazed donuts to decorated custom cookies, making it difficult to choose just one item.
Local Distribution: The bakery supplies fresh goods to restaurants throughout the area, demonstrating their reputation extends well beyond individual customers. This local network means you’re experiencing the same quality that area establishments trust for their own customers.
Other Considerations
Pricing: The bakery offers reasonable pricing that reflects the quality and size of their baked goods. While not bargain-basement cheap, you’ll find the portions substantial and the taste superior to typical chain alternatives, making it solid value for your money.
Hours and Availability: Open Tuesday through Friday from 5 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday from 5 AM to 2 PM, with Sunday and Monday closures. The early opening time means you can grab fresh items before most places are even open, perfect for getting the best selection.
Special Orders: They create custom wedding cakes and decorative cookies for special events, with both visual appeal and taste being priorities. Planning ahead ensures availability for larger custom orders.
Related
More in Wisconsin
Don’t Miss The Famous Biscuit And Skillet Cookie Sensation At Madison’s Mint Mark
Keep Exploring →Parking: Street parking can be somewhat challenging to find, particularly during busier periods, so plan accordingly when visiting downtown Manitowoc.
Family-Friendly: The welcoming atmosphere and variety of sweet treats make this an excellent stop for families, though the focus remains on takeout rather than extended dining.
Best Times to Visit: Early morning provides the fullest selection, while weekday visits often mean shorter wait times and better parking availability.
Bakery on State
📍 436 N 9th St, Manitowoc, WI 54220
