Regulars know that the place to be on Wednesday mornings, around 10 a.m., is BAKED Bakery & Café in Emmaus because that is when this flavorful fall-themed treat pops hot and fresh out of the oven, says owner and chief baker, Melissa Walters.
Walters uses locally sourced organic apples from Emmaus Farmers’ Market growers whenever possible and prefers using the Granny Smith or Rome variety to provide the base for their Rustic Apple Dumpling—a menu staple. To this she adds a mix of Grape-Nuts and honey to make the filling and then dusts it with cinnamon and sugar just prior to baking. The crust of pastry surrounding this natural beauty is fresh-baked and made with wholesome whole-wheat flour, to give it an earthy taste, says Walters.
While you may be tempted to go for a traditional cup of coffee to complement this crispy, tasty treat, Walters suggests trying a hot apple cider or a spiced chai tea with yours.
Some of her pastry patrons have their own idea about how this old-timey recipe should be dished out: “Customers often ask for it to be served in warm milk, a local tradition of the Pennsylvania Dutch, (my preferred way to enjoy).”
BAKED recently celebrated its fifth anniversary at its Emmaus location and while Walters is the third owner, she says the café has stayed true to its foundation of organic products made fresh daily. When asked what the secret of their menu’s success is, Walters plainly replies: “Simplicity and nostalgia.” We say, come and get it!
228 Main St., Emmaus | 610.966.6100 | bakedinemmaus.com
