Salted Butter Bakery has officially opened its doors in Midtown Harrisburg, marking a significant milestone for owners Alec Johnson and Ben Stehle, who have been delighting customers with their homemade baked goods for the past two years from their home. The bakery, located at 1224 N. 3rd St., just across from the Broad Street Market, opened in March 2025 and has already garnered attention for its unique offerings and nostalgic flavors.
Known for their oversized oatmeal crème pies, which are four times the size of the popular Little Debbie version, and cinnamon rolls described as "50% butter and 50% sugar," the bakery prides itself on a simple yet rich baking philosophy. "I like to keep it very simple," Johnson explained. "All my baked goods are simple flavors. They’re nostalgic. It seems like they remind everyone of their childhood. They’re all super buttery." Johnson's commitment to quality is evident in every item he bakes, from snickerdoodle and chocolate chip cookies to seasonal flavors and fresh bread.
The journey to opening Salted Butter Bakery began in Johnson’s Shipoke home, where he and Stehle fulfilled online orders and participated in local festivals. Their first vending experience was at Harrisburg’s 2024 Ice & Fire Festival, a moment that would pave the way for their storefront debut a year later. "I was like, ‘OK, I should probably just do it,’" Johnson recalled, reflecting on his decision to start the business before turning 30. This self-imposed timeline motivated him to take the leap into entrepreneurship, fulfilling a long-held dream.
The bakery's cozy interior, designed to resemble their home, features a seating area where customers can relax with a cookie or two. "This feels and looks just like our house," Johnson said, emphasizing the personal touch they aim to provide. The couple has expressed gratitude for the community’s support, noting how patrons often return to share their positive experiences, especially with the oatmeal crème pies. "They’ll come back just to say how good it is," Stehle said, recounting a customer who was pleasantly surprised by the flavors.
In addition to their baked goods, Salted Butter Bakery is committed to supporting other local businesses. They offer products from Harrisburg favorites like Little Amps Coffee Roasters and Midtown Juice Lab, showcasing their dedication to the local economy. "We view our place as a chance to add to the already rich food scene in Harrisburg," Johnson stated, highlighting their aim to uplift fellow entrepreneurs.
Currently, Salted Butter Bakery operates on weekends, with plans to expand hours to Thursday through Monday in the near future. As the bakery continues to grow, Johnson and Stehle look forward to welcoming more customers into their space, providing a comforting retreat amid the hustle and bustle of Midtown.
Meanwhile, across the state at Carolina Beach, another beloved establishment, Britt's Donut Shop, is preparing to open for the season. Known for its homemade glazed donuts since 1939, Britt's will operate three days a week during the spring, enticing beachgoers with its sweet offerings. The shop will be open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with additional hours on April 21.
The schedule for Britt's Donut Shop includes opening on April 4 from 4-10 p.m., followed by various hours throughout the month. Customers can expect to enjoy the iconic glazed donuts along with beverages like coffee, milk, and sodas. For those eager to indulge in these treats, the shop encourages patrons to check their website for official hours and updates.
As both Salted Butter Bakery and Britt's Donut Shop prepare to serve their communities, they highlight the importance of local businesses in creating vibrant food scenes. With their unique offerings and commitment to quality, both establishments are poised to become favorites among locals and visitors alike.
For more information about Salted Butter Bakery, visit their social media pages or stop by their new location. To stay updated on Britt's Donut Shop, check their official website or call for details. Both bakeries represent the heart of local entrepreneurship, bringing joy through delicious treats and community spirit.
