The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the views of Spoon University.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. This ancient adage reminds us that sometimes, tradition speaks for itself. Founder and head baker Chris Girardot felt the same way when he opened RavenHook Bakehouse in 2006. RavenHook is dedicated to centuries-old bread making techniques that require careful patience and craft. This commitment is reflected in the quality of their products and the regular customers that support them at farmers markets around Washington D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. I was lucky enough to sample a few items from their usual menu, as well as their seasonal specials. I can’t wait to share, so let’s dig in!
Texas Pecan Pie
If you like your pie to be bursting with deep, decadent flavor, look no further. The bakers at RavenHook have perfected a thick, buttery crust… but it’s what’s on the inside that counts! The first bite of pecans and rich filling come together with the subtle taste of brandy to create the perfect bite every single time. As a resident of Texas myself, I promise this will be the BEST pecan pie you will ever try.
Pumpkin Spice Loaf
As an autumn enthusiast whose life revolves around food, I consider myself to be qualified when it comes to judging pumpkin spiced anything. RavenHook does the holiday season justice by packing their loaves with aromatic spices and real pumpkin. When it comes to pumpkin spice cake, it’s important to know that the texture is more airy than that of a pumpkin bread. My favorite part of this treat was the fluffy, tender texture of each bite.
Mile High Apple Pie
Oh boy… thinking about this apple pie is making me wish it was time to gather around the table on Christmas day. Whether it be method or magic, the bakers at RavenHook fit three pounds of local apples and warming spices inside of each pie. This flavorful filling is wrapped in an all-butter crust before being baked and browned to perfection.
Organic Whole Wheat Sourdough
The homemade sourdough craze may be new, but the way RavenHook hand shapes their bread is anything but. Relying on tried and true methods, they bake with whole grain, organic whole wheat flour from a local farm in Northern Virginia. Next time you’re strolling around the market, spare yourself the trouble of concocting bread from scratch and pick up one of these whole wheat sourdough loaves instead!
Chocolate Chip Cookies
There are few debates as controversial as the age-old texture preference: crispy or chewy? I used to be a chewy-cookie extremist, but it appears that I have changed my mind. The texture of this chocolate chip cookie takes you on an adventure with its crispy, buttery exterior and chewy, chocolatey interior. Yes, you can technically enjoy these year-round…but why wait?!
Asking me to choose my favorite out of this roster of treats would be like asking me to choose my favorite Taylor Swift song – ridiculous and impossible. When it comes to desserts that taste like these, why have one when you can have them all? If you want to be the most popular family member at Christmas dinner, do everyone a favor and visit RavenHook Bakehouse at a local D.C., Virginia, or Maryland market near you!