One of the things that comes to mind when people think of South Carolina is food! The reason, you ask? It's because we do it everyday and we do it well. And, when it comes to baking we are even better! Recipes have been handed down through the generations. Mothers teach daughters and so on and so forth. So, it's absolutely no wonder that we have some of the best bakeries in the nation. They took those lessons from mom, those recipes, added a bit of themselves, and threw in a bit of magic to make the most mouth-watering concoctions you'll ever taste. They are so good...you DREAM of eating it again! Here is a list of 20 bakeries that will make you run out and grab some of your own.
Okay, guys, this is what I'm talking about! A gentleman who lives in Charleston reached out to us to tell us especially about this bakery. Apparently, they are the BEST around. All of the cupcakes are made from scratch, it is a locally owned and operated store, and best of all? Well, you get to customize your cupcake to your preference. Yes, you heard me correctly. You choose your cake flavor, your icing, and toppings. They also serve cupcake milkshakes! I know! I haven't heard of these anywhere else in the state. So, step on down to the Citadel Mall on West Ashley and pick up some of these.
This guy is an architect and not just with cakes! He makes these cakes and treats with his own two hands. Each and every one of them so you can taste the love! And, if you don't want to wait for a custom cake, you can find his baked goods at La Dolce Vita and The Clay Pot, both in Florence, SC on Dargan Street.
Got a sweet tooth? Then Sweet has the solution! Their bakery has a plexiglass enclosed kitchen so you can watch them make those beautiful and irresistible cupcakes. They have such flavors as Hummingbird, Salted Caramel, and Family Reunion among many other kinds! You can also find them in McLeod's Hospital and Celebration Blvd.
This is one amazing place! You may have seen them on Food Network's Cupcake Wars and Rewrapped. They are making some outrageous flavors and they are oh, so pretty!
This place is making "Happiness" a thing in Greer. They have luscious cupcakes -try the Raspberry- and they make a Chai Milkshake which can absolutely make your world go off-kilter and you will never think of a milkshake the same way again.
All homemade goodness here. Their flavors rotate with the seasons, which I love! Right now they are serving things like: Sea Turtle, Moon Pie, Sweet Georgia Brown, and Velvet Elvis. The names themselves just make me what to take that drive again!
Cakes...beautiful, amazing cakes are made here! And, the flavors are out of this world! They have that hand's own touch that you crave in a true bakery and they are masters of their craft.
LaDolce is making some of the most amazing and fantastical creations! I'm in love with the bird egg cupcakes myself. Not only do they taste so good and moist, but they are so pretty to just look at right before you take the first bite.
These guys know what they are doing with those recipes. If you don't believe that you can fall in love with food, you will once you taste these creations! The Maple Caramel cake you see above is absolute heaven in your mouth!
Just magnificence in your mouth. The colors they use and the flavors are just scrumptious. I suggest (if they have it that day) the Butter Pecan Pound Cake. If you do, you won't leave without taking some home!
You may have heard of them since they were on Food Network's Cupcake Wars. These people are crazy inventive and super friendly. Not only do they do cupcakes and birthday cakes, but also gorgeous, breath-taking wedding cakes as well! If you like peanut butter and chocolate...try the OMG! cupcake. You won't be disappointed.
One word...Art! Well, maybe two words: Art and delicious! I've seen many roses on top of cupcakes before, but nothing like this. It is pastry art at its finest and not only pretty people, it is good.
I guess you can say that food is part visual and part taste because I can't help but look at these beautiful cupcakes that the Chocolate Moose has. It is so difficult to choose which one to take home! By the way the two above are called German Chocolate and Pecan Praline.
As you can see the selection is vast and not one of them is bad. When they named the store "Crave", they knew what they were doing! You will crave these time after time.
Unfortunately, I couldn't find a storefront picture, but I'm sure you will be able to find them. As you can see they are versatile in what they make. I tried one of the cupcakes you see up there and although I can't remember the name of it, I can remember the taste and I dream of having another one!
Divine! Just divine! They use that personal touch with finesse. It's always nice to have something look good, but tasting good as well is the complete package and they deliver on all counts!
This is definitely a unique shop and it's fun! They bake the cakes; you decorate them. Of course, they are right at hand to give you tips on how to make it look like theirs, but what an awesome idea to have customers come in and do it themselves. You take home the cake that you made! Go check them out! It can be a great family night.
If you can dream it, they can make it! They have a super friendly staff, not to mention talented! I just couldn't resist the cupcakes. Cupcakes are my favorite thing ever by the way, and they have the cutest assortment with the personal touches.
Okay, last one promise. Are you drooling yet? I know I am. This bakery is doing all the right things and doing it beautifully! A thought for you: Strawberry Mousse Cupcakes...Oh, My! My tummy never had it so good.
Everyone of them is awesome and I'm sure you'll be able to find one very close to you! Oh, I need to mention that a lot of them above also have vegan and vegetarian cupcakes and treats for you to choose from as well. There also a few gluten-free options too! So, no excuses! Everyone needs a treat once in a while. What are you favorite bakeries in South Carolina? Tell us in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Over in southwestern Oconee County, near where Interstate 85 crosses Lake Hartwell into Georgia, the residents of Fair Play (population: 687) have grown accustomed to eliminating a few calories from their evening meal - and with good reason. The sweet breakfast delights found all day (Wednesday through Saturday) at this neighborhood Amish bakery, Hershberger's Bakery, in South Carolina are irresistible temptations most can't live without.
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This is no exaggeration; the homemade goodies found at Hershberger's Bakery are over the top and choosing just one of them to go... is pretty much impossible.
The selection changes daily but there's a group of faves that rotate into the mix just often enough to satisfy an immediate craving and then leave you in anticipation of the next time you'll get a taste of the same. The sweet, flavored cake donuts, for instance, come in blueberry, strawberry, pumpkin, and more delicious flavors.
Heavenly-flavored donuts aside, it's the FRIED CINNAMON ROLLS that make people wanna get out of bed early just to get at them. Firstly, they're as big (or bigger) than your head. And secondly... they're fried to golden perfection before getting slathered in a sugary glaze.
And even though common sense says you'll never be able to eat them all, buying one of them is just never an option you'd consider, especially since they're not served every day.
Hershberger Bakery's reviews say they are simply the best ever.
If you want to know exactly when the enormous FRIED CINNAMON ROLLS are available, you can do one of two things: follow the Facebook page, or attempt to call the bakery and ask when they'll be making them next: (864)972-9793.
Of course, Hershbergers IS a bakery... so you can expect to find other yummy baked goods including sweet breads (we'll take the banana nut, please), Amish loaves, and more.
And since the bakery is open during lunch hours, you can also have a light lunch served on breads made in the bakery. The club is stacked sky-high and loaded with the usual. Prefer some red meat? Get the burger served on a sourdough roll made fresh in the bakery.
Finding delicious items to sample at this Amish country bakery in South Carolina comes easy; waiting until Wednesday each week to get at their delicious baked goods is not so easy. But that just means you have to stock up on Saturday to hold you over 'til the next Wednesday. You can pace yourself... right?
Hershberger's Bakery is so close to the state line, you'll make plenty of new friends from Georgia with whom you have at least a love for Hershberger's Amish baked goods in common.
Plan ahead when heading to this Amish bakery. Hershberger's Bakery is only open Wednesday through Saturday. The hours are Wednesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more on the official Facebook page of Hershberger's Bakery.
Address: 1011 SC-59, Fair Play, SC, 29643
For more reasons to visit this little corner of the state, take a peek at a nearby campground on Lake Hartwell. You can rent the entire campground for less than you might think! Check out RVShare.com for RV rental options if you don't have your own and would like to try RV camping.
