What to Try First at Baudry Bakery – A Local’s Guide to French Pastries
If you’ve ever typed “best pastries near me” into your phone and found yourself standing in line at Baudry Bakery, you’re not alone. Known for its traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients, Baudry has earned a devoted following in Cincinnati — and for good reason.
But with a rotating selection of buttery croissants, crisp tartlets, and melt-in-your-mouth cookies, first-timers often ask: “What should I try first?”
In this guide, we’ll walk you through Baudry bakery favorites, explain what makes them special, and help you choose the perfect pastry for your first (or next) visit. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats, savory bites, or classic French flavors, there’s something here for every palate.
Start with the Classic – The Butter Croissant
Why locals love it:
If you want to understand the heart of Baudry, start with the classic butter croissant. Hand-laminated over several days using European cultured butter, this croissant is golden, flaky, and delicately layered.
What to expect:
- A crisp, crackling exterior
- A soft, airy interior with visible layers
- A rich, buttery aroma that speaks for itself
Pairs well with: Black coffee or tea in the morning.
For Chocolate Lovers – Pain au Chocolat
Why it’s a favorite:
Imagine the same buttery dough as the croissant, but wrapped around two sticks of rich, dark chocolate. This pain au chocolat is both elegant and indulgent — not overly sweet, just perfectly balanced.
What to expect:
- Flaky exterior
- Smooth, semi-sweet chocolate center
- Satisfying size for breakfast or snack
When to try it: Best enjoyed slightly warm. Heat for 5 minutes at 300°F for the full experience.
A Must-Try for Nut Fans – Almond Croissant
Why it stands out:
Twice-baked and filled with house-made almond cream, this croissant has a cult following. Topped with sliced almonds and a light dusting of powdered sugar, it’s rich, nutty, and deeply satisfying.
Perfect for: Those who want a more filling option or a sweet midday treat.
Insider tip: It sells out fast — come early.
Something Delicate – French Macarons
Why everyone’s talking about them:
Macarons are one of Baudry’s signature offerings. With their crisp shell, soft interior, and colorful variety, they’re perfect for gifting or treating yourself.
Flavor favorites include:
- Pistachio
- Salted dark chocolate
- Earl Grey & lemon
- Raspberry
- Vanilla bean
Storage tip: Keep them refrigerated and bring to room temperature before eating.
For Tart Lovers – Seasonal Fruit Tartlets
Why you’ll love them:
If you appreciate pastry that looks as beautiful as it tastes, Baudry’s tartlets are a must. Made with buttery pâte sucrée (sweet pastry crust) and filled with lemon curd, vanilla pastry cream, or fresh seasonal fruits, these are elegant and bursting with flavor.
Popular options:
- Lemon meringue
- Strawberry basil
- Raspberry with pistachio cream
Best time to get them: Spring and summer for peak fruit season.
The Hidden Gem – Sablé Cookies
Why they’re underrated:
Sablés are French shortbread cookies — crisp, buttery, and lightly sweet. Baudry’s version is handmade with cultured butter and a touch of sea salt or citrus zest.
Great for: Afternoon tea, small bites at events, or an after-dinner treat.
Flavors to try:
- Lemon sablé
- Chocolate sea salt
- Vanilla almond
For Bread Enthusiasts – Pain au Levain (Country Sourdough)
Why it matters:
Baudry’s breads are naturally leavened, slowly fermented, and baked with love. The pain au levain has a chewy crumb, deep crust, and a subtle sourness that pairs beautifully with cheese, butter, or jam.
Try it if you love: Artisan breads with character and a rustic texture.
Bonus: It freezes well — just slice, wrap, and toast as needed.
The Market-Only Surprise – Seasonal Specials
Baudry often surprises regulars with limited-run pastries at the markets. These might include:
- Savory croissants with herbs and cheese
- Holiday cookies like ginger sablés
- Unique tartlets made with local fruit
Why they’re special: They’re made in small batches and change often, so you may never see the same item twice.
Best way to stay updated:
Follow @baudrybakery on Instagram or check the website for market menus.
Where to Find These Pastries
You can find Baudry Bakery favorites at:
- Hyde Park Farmers’ Market (Sundays)
- Montgomery Farmers’ Market (Saturdays)
- Pop-up events throughout Cincinnati
- Pre-order at com
Pro tip: Items sell out quickly. If there’s something you must try, arrive early or place a pre-order online.
Final Thoughts
Baudry Bakery isn’t just another market vendor — it’s a slice of France, baked fresh each week in the heart of Cincinnati. If you’re looking for the best pastries near you, there’s no better place to begin your French pastry journey.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s always something new to discover — and always something made by hand, with care, the traditional way.
So what should you try first at Baudry? Start with a classic, pick something seasonal, and don’t leave without a cookie. You’ll understand why so many locals call Baudry their favorite bakery in town.