Campbell's Bakery on North State Street in Jackson, Mississippi [Google Map], is one of the Fondren district's hidden jewels.
Under new management (and featuring a new, enthusiastic baker) since March, Campbell's has gone from a neglected but much-loved property to a bright, happy bakery once again. The counter cases are packed with goodies: sugar-frosted tea-cakes, Snicker's brownies, tangy lemon squares, slices of carmel cake, and more.
How good are the baked goods? Let's put it this way: during their visit, friends from Minneapolis sampled the tea cakes ... and, for their anniversary earlier this year, they called on me to ship 'em a couple dozen. My father-in-law says they're the closest thing to his grandmother's tea cakes he's tasted in decades. When I put these out on a platter, guests -- without fail -- either gobble 'em up, or, blushing, ask if they can take the remaining cookies home.
If you loved the old Campbell's Bakery, you'll feel right at home: the decor remains authentic, and the recipes in the kitchen were passed down from the previous owner. Meanwhile: the new owner continues to dazzle me with her own innovations, including the orange brownies (!!!) which much be eaten to be believed. The frosting is rich, the cake is light, and the whole confection teeters on that delicious line between sweet and citrus. Heaven!
Planning a party? In search of the perfect snack? Want to impress out of town guests with a unique treat they can't get back home? Run -- don't walk -- to Campbell's! Cakes, cookies, moist petit fours, and more are available ... so call 'em up, and let 'em know what you need, or do as I do, take your chances, and stop by in the mornings to cruise the cases for "We Baked Too Much!" bargains.
