If you're searching for unique bakeries in Overland Park, you're in for a treat with these two standout spots! One specializes in traditional Mexican sweet breads, offering delightful pastries like conchas and maranitos, alongside tasty sandwiches, coffee, and refreshing aguas frescas. Meanwhile, the other is an all-vegan spot known for its dairy free, gluten-free, donuts, muffins, cakes, and pop tarts. 

Aurora Bakery

Located inside the BOK Financial Tower, Aurora Bakery opened its doors earlier this year, quickly becoming a beloved spot for pastry lovers. Specializing in authentic Mexican sweet bread, this bakery makes some of the best conchas, maranitos, and cuernitos.

Their conchas are particularly noteworthy, featuring raspberry cream cheese, lemon, funfetti and chocolate, but the star of the show is their crème brûlée concha, filled with vanilla pastry cream and topped with a glassy layer of burnt sugar that you can crack open resulting in a true crème brûlée experience. Aurora Bakery also serves muffins, croissants, and chunky chocolate chip cookies topped with a sprinkle of sea salt.

The menu doesn’t stop there; their sandwiches might appear simple at first glance, but each is packed with flavor. The bread is made in-house using locally milled whole grain flour from Marion Milling and sourdough techniques, creating a softer, fluffier texture. For those looking for lighter menu options, they also serve delicious salads and seasonal soups, perfect for a quick lunch.

On their drink menu you can find refreshing cold brew coffee and traditional Mexican aguas frescas, including jamaica (hibiscus) and tamarindo, as well as a selection of teas.

The story behind Aurora Bakery is as delightful as its treats. Owners Kerrianne and Javier, who met in culinary school over a decade ago, have long dreamed of opening their own bakery. After relocating from Los Angeles to Overland Park in 2018, they set out to find the perfect location. Their search led them to a charming space at the base of a building, which they saw potential in and decided to renovate to reflect their vision.

Javier is the talented baker behind the delicious sweets and pastries, meanwhile, his wife Kerrianne crafts flavorful sandwiches and soups. Together, they have transformed their dream into reality, establishing Aurora Bakery as a true gem within the community. 

Mud Pie Vegan Bakery + Coffee

Finding a 100% vegan bakery in Kansas can be a rare, but Overland Park is home to the charming Mud Pie Bakery, a true haven for plant-based enthusiasts. This bakery proudly offers an entirely plant-based menu, with dairy-free and several gluten-free options catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and needs.

Their pastry selection is diverse, featuring an array of options like muffins, brownies, and cakes. One of their signature popular items is their homemade pop tarts—an inventive twist on a classic treat that has quickly become a customer favorite. Each pop tart is filled with delightful, seasonal fruit preserves and topped with a sweet glaze, making it a perfect pastry for breakfast or a sweet snack any time of day. 

In addition to their baked goods, Mud Pie Bakery excels in crafting a variety of exceptional coffees and teas. For those seeking savory options, the bakery does not disappoint. They offer delicious kolaches— pastries stuffed with flavorful fillings and breakfast biscuit sandwiches.

As you step inside Mud Pie Bakery, you’re greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly baked goods. The interior is bright, and cozy with plenty of comfortable tables and chairs throughout the space, making it perfect for enjoying a coffee and pastry with a friend or getting some work done. Towards the back of the bakery, you’ll find a kid-friendly area designed to entertain young visitors. This cozy nook is filled with colorful books for reading and a variety of coloring supplies for kids to enjoy. Additionally, Mud Pie Bakery has a charming small outdoor patio, for those warmer sunny days.

Originally established on 39th Street, Mud Pie thrived for over a decade before expanding to a second location in Overland Park in 2022. To facilitate this growth, they launched a crowdfunding campaign that successfully secured the necessary funds. After opening the new location, they decided to close the Missouri site, focusing instead on Overland Park, which offers a spacious kitchen for baking and ample room for roasting equipment. Today, Mud Pie continues to be a must-visit destination in Overland Park for anyone seeking vegan treats. 

Next time you're in Overland Park, make sure Aurora Bakery and Mud Pie Bakery are at the top of your list. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Mexican sweet breads or need a plant-based, gluten-free treat, these two spots might just be what you crave. Both places are cozy and inviting, perfect for relaxing and enjoying something new.