I’m going to say it: Boston is at its BEST in the fall. Is there anything more magical than a crisp fall morning at a local bakery? I can practically smell the sweet air and feel the steam from a pumpkin spice latte on my nose! Throw on your blanket scarf, trounce through the leaves, and head on over to one of our favorite Boston-area bakeries to try a pumpkin treat!
Montilios Baking Company :: Braintree, Brockton, Quincy, Weymouth
Montilios is a South Shore staple. They have four locations and a mobile food truck for your sweet-loving convenience. They offer a pumpkin cannoli that is out. of. this. world. Let that sink in… PUMPKIN CANNOLI. You’re welcome.
White’s Bakery and Cafe :: Brockton and Mansfield
I host Thanksgiving at our house every year, and I’m not sure if I’m even allowed to bake the desserts anymore after I presented my family with a pumpkin cheesecake from White’s Bakery one year. Creamy and not too pumpkiny, the cheesecake is insanely delicious. White’s also offers an amazing cranberry apple pie and kid-sized whoopie pies that your family will love. They also offer a line of house-made artisan breads that is amazing!
Quebrada Baking Company :: Arlington, Belmont, Watertown, and Wellesley
Quebrada has a huge assortment of both breakfast pastries and bakery items. Enjoy one of their sugar-dusted pumpkin muffins while you sip one of their expertly brewed coffees. Their Boston cream pie is excellent, too, if you’re looking for a Boston-based treat to share with family over the holidays.
Flour Bakery and Cafe :: Locations in Boston and Cambridge
With nine locations in and around the city, there’s a Flour for everyone! Be prepared to stand in line, but it’s worth it. I’m fairly certain you aren’t allowed to call yourself a Boston resident until you’ve had one of their famous sticky buns. If you’re looking for a more seasonal treat, try their pumpkin spice spice hot chocolate (you read that right!) and a delicious pumpkin muffin topped with candied pumpkin seeds. Or, if you’re feeling indulgent, grab a slice of pumpkin cheesecake or the “piefecta” — pumpkin, pecan, and cream all in one pie!
Fisichelli’s Pastry Shop :: Lawrence
My husband’s family is super Italian, and they know a good pastry when they taste one. Fisichelli’s is a family party staple for us, and I’m so grateful it is! If you are north of Boston, definitely give this family-owned Italian bakery your business — you won’t be disappointed. Sfogliatelle isn’t exactly a fall-themed pastry, but in our house they are welcome for all seasons!
Weesh Bake Shop :: Roslindale
Ever heard of a Weesh Tart? This woman-owned and -operated bakery not only specializes in beautifully decorated cakes, it has a large following for its take on a Pop-Tart! Only open for retail on Saturdays, the owner has perfected the recipe for all flavors and themes of Pop-Tarts — think “milk and cookies” or “everything bagel.” Their monthly flavor specials are always worth trying, and I can’t wait to see what the next fall flavor will be — fingers crossed for a pumpkin treat at this Boston bakery!
Tatte :: Various Locations in Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Newton, Somerville, and Washington, D.C.
A self-taught baker is the mastermind behind this ever-popular bakery — which is actually much more than a bakery! At Tatte you can order breakfast and lunch sandwiches, tartines, shakshuka, salads, and soups. Their seasonal and holiday specialties are always just right, so Tatte in autumn is the place to be!
Ward’s Berry Farm :: Sharon
Not only can you pick the best pumpkin at Ward’s Berry Farm, you can also enjoy this south-of-Boston bakery’s extensive variety of pumpkin treats. Seasonally, their pumpkin bread, muffins, and scones — all baked fresh and delicious! My favorite is the pumpkin chocolate chip bread! The best part about this farm is all the fun the kids will have while you enjoy your pumpkin treat. There’s a playground, bounce pillow, hayrides, and sand boxes. Ward’s Berry Farm is definitely a place to take the whole fam during the fall months!
Donna’s Donuts :: Tewksbury
Don’t let the name fool you! Donuts might be the specialty at Donna’s, but their pumpkin muffin is crumbly, moist, and delicious. You may need to wait in line to get their delicious baked goods — and it will be worth it. While you’re waiting to your muffin, have your donut order ready — I recommend the biggest apple donut you’ll have. This place has the best deal for a dozen fresh baked donuts!
This post was originally published in 2017 and was updated in 2023 by Krystal Avila.
