The Maple Bacon Donuts At This Colorado Bakery Have Tourists Talking For Weeks

Craving a bite that captures the Rocky Mountain spirit and a touch of Parisian finesse? The Spice Rack in Estes Park has travelers planning detours for its legendary maple bacon twist – an irresistibly fragrant pastry that balances smoky crunch and real maple sweetness. Step inside the cozy, sunlit bakery, sip a locally loved coffee, and watch trays of golden croissants and cruffins disappear by mid-morning. Here are ten reasons visitors won’t stop talking about this Colorado gem – and why you’ll want to set your alarm early.

Atmosphere and Experience

Expect a bright, cozy room where sunlight hits pastry gloss just so, and friendly chatter blends with the hiss of steaming milk. The front showcases the day’s bake, while a quiet back seating area invites lingering over second cups. Details matter – clean design, warm wood, and a lived-in charm that feels authentically Estes Park. It’s the kind of place where travelers trade trail tips and locals greet staff by name. The mountains outside amplify every sip and bite, making simple moments memorable. Service is attentive without rush, happy to offer pairing suggestions or packing tips. You’ll leave with more than a pastry: a feeling of place. That’s why visitors keep talking for weeks – and why you’ll likely plan your next visit before finishing the last crumb.

Welcome to The Spice Rack

Nestled along CO-66 with a postcard view of the Rockies, The Spice Rack feels like a secret you want to share. The aroma of warm butter, maple, and espresso greets you the moment you step inside the bright, cozy space. Friendly staff guide first-timers toward house favorites, while regulars nod knowingly, already in line for their morning ritual. Beyond the pastry case, shelves of specialty spices and whimsical blends hint at the bakery’s culinary curiosity. A quiet back seating area makes it easy to linger, chat, and plan your Estes Park adventures. Visitors rave about the balance of small-town warmth and big-city technique. Whether you’re a pastry purist or a flavor explorer, this spot blends comfort and craft into an easy, unforgettable stop.

Overview – Must-Visit in Estes Park

Part bakery, part spice boutique, The Spice Rack stands out as a must-visit stop in Estes Park’s culinary scene. The team crafts French-inspired pastries with meticulous technique, then layers in playful Colorado character. Travelers praise the dependable freshness: everything tastes just-baked, with laminated doughs that shatter delicately and fillings that actually taste like fruit, butter, or chocolate. The Rocky Mountain setting turns a simple breakfast into a memorable travel moment. Locals drop by early, tourists follow, and the pastry case empties fast. The spice racks add a choose-your-own-adventure twist – take home blends that mirror the bakery’s signature flavors. It’s the rare place where a quick coffee-and-pastry break morphs into a full sensory experience. Come hungry, leave inspired – and probably carrying a spice bag.

The Star Attraction – Maple Bacon Twist

The maple bacon twist is the conversation starter that turns into a lifelong recommendation. Imagine braided, buttery dough lacquered with real maple syrup and finished with thick-cut, caramelized bacon that snaps as you bite. The glaze isn’t cloying; it’s balanced, letting smoky-salty notes sing against tender layers. Warm from the oven, it perfumes the room and pairs beautifully with a bright latte. Travelers say it’s the pastry they keep comparing others to, long after leaving town. Staff recommend enjoying it within minutes for maximum crackle and aroma. Grab two – one for now, one for the scenic overlook. As a souvenir, snag the house maple-spice blend to recreate a whisper of that magic back home. This twist is the reason early birds smile in the parking lot.

Golden Croissants – A Classic Treat

Croissants here are a masterclass in lamination: ultra-flaky, delicately crisp, and richly buttery without greasiness. Bite in and hear the soft crackle give way to honeycombed interiors. Seasonal variants shine – strawberry and white chocolate is a crowd favorite, balancing tart fruit with creamy sweetness. Twice-baked options deepen the indulgence, delivering caramelized edges and a satisfying chew. These croissants travel well for a mid-hike treat, but they’re at their peak warm. Pair one with a cappuccino for a classic, Paris-meets-Colorado breakfast. The team’s technique shows in the details: clean layers, even bake, and meticulous shaping. Tourists often order one to eat and another for the road, a habit we endorse. When the tray’s gone, it’s gone – arrive early or prepare for delicious envy.

Cruffins – The Perfect Hybrid

Part croissant, part muffin, the cruffin is a textural wonder that makes pastry fans swoon. Spiraled layers climb skyward, creating a crisp exterior and soft, buttery core. Fillings rotate – think lemon curd, chocolate hazelnut, or seasonal fruit – each one evenly distributed so every bite counts. Visitors praise the balance: not too sweet, not too heavy, but undeniably decadent. The shape makes them perfect for on-the-go sightseeing, and they photograph beautifully against those mountain backdrops. A dusting of sugar adds sparkle without overpowering the pastry’s delicate flavor. Ask which fillings sold out first; it’s a reliable guide to local favorites. If you’re torn between choices, grab a cruffin flight for sharing. Warning: you’ll plan another visit just to try the next flavor drop.

Savory Options – Quiche and More

When you crave something savory, the quiche case delivers comfort and finesse. Expect a custard that’s silky, not stodgy, set in a short, buttery crust that holds together beautifully. Rotating flavors might feature roasted vegetables, sharp cheddar, alpine herbs, or bacon and gruyère – each seasoned thoughtfully, not aggressively. Hand pies and breakfast pastries round out the lineup for hikers fueling up early. Many guests share a quiche slice alongside a sweet pastry for balance. Staff can warm items to order for that just-baked satisfaction. These savory picks pair well with a strong Americano or herbal tea from the café menu. If you’re packing a picnic, quiche travels nicely and tastes great at room temperature. It’s proof this bakery excels well beyond sugar.

Cinnamon Rolls – Light, Airy, and Irresistible

These cinnamon rolls stand out for their featherlight crumb and aromatic swirl. Instead of dense dough, you get a springy, cloudlike texture that pulls apart in tender layers. The topping – whipped cream cheese frosting – adds tang and lift rather than sugary fatigue. Spices are balanced so cinnamon shines without bitterness, and the glaze never overwhelms the pastry’s buttery notes. Visitors call them “dangerously snackable,” often ordering an extra to share. If you arrive when a fresh batch lands, the bakery fills with cozy spice perfume. Pair with a latte or chai for a warming, nostalgic moment. They’re generous but not overwhelming, ideal for splitting. Don’t dither – these vanish quickly, especially on weekends. One bite, and you’ll understand the fan club.

Coffee and Tea Selection

The drinks menu is crafted to complement pastries without stealing the spotlight. Fresh OZO Coffee anchors the lineup, with espresso drinks pulled clean and bright for balance against buttery bakes. Lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas feel thoughtfully dialed; milk texture is consistently silky. Tea drinkers can choose from classic blacks to herbals, plus seasonal blends that echo the shop’s spice sensibility. Smoothies and juices offer a refreshing reset before a day of trails. Staff gladly suggest pairings – the maple bacon twist with a flat white, or a lemon cruffin with Earl Grey. Quality ingredients and careful preparation elevate the simplest order. Even to-go cups feel considered for road-trip practicality. It’s the kind of beverage program that turns a pastry stop into a full café experience.

Spices and House Blends

Beyond pastries, the curated spice wall is a treasure trove for home cooks and souvenir seekers. You’ll find premium single-origin spices, clever house blends, and playful signatures like the famed “unicorn sugar” – a sparkly topper that transforms pancakes, toast, and lattes. Staff offer pairing tips, often inspired by bakery recipes, so you can channel those flavors at home. Maple-forward mixes echo the star pastry, while savory rubs elevate campfire cooking. Travelers love the compact, giftable jars and clear labeling. It’s more than retail; it’s a flavor education that extends your visit beyond breakfast. Grab a blend, then taste how it shows up in daily specials. The spice program proves this shop thinks about taste holistically – sweet, salty, crunchy, aromatic, and unforgettable.

Visitor Information – Location, Hours, and Tips

Find The Spice Rack at 2470 CO-66, Estes Park, Colorado, a convenient stop on your way into Rocky Mountain National Park. Doors open Wednesday through Sunday, 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and popular items sell out fast – arrive early for the maple bacon twist. Weekdays are calmer; weekends move briskly with a friendly line. Parking is straightforward, but mornings fill quickly. Order your coffee first, then choose pastries as trays emerge fresh. Consider grabbing extra for a scenic breakfast stop nearby. If you’re spice shopping, browse before the rush or after 10 a.m. when the line thins. Card and contactless payments are welcome. Check social channels for flavor specials and holiday hours. A little planning guarantees a lot of happiness.