Editor’s Picks: My Levain Bakery Obsession

*By Calandria Parker*

When it comes to bakeries that make your heart skip a beat, Levain Bakery holds a special place in my culinary soul. After countless visits and far too many indulgent afternoons, I’ve narrowed down my absolute must-try picks that never fail to deliver pure bliss in every bite.

## The Holy Trinity of Levain Perfection

### Whole Wheat Walnut Raisin Roll: Rustic Elegance

There’s something magical about biting into Levain’s whole wheat walnut raisin roll that transports you to a cozy farmhouse kitchen. The hearty whole wheat base provides a nutty, substantial foundation that’s anything but dense or heavy. Instead, it offers the perfect canvas for the starring players: generous chunks of toasted walnuts and plump, sweet raisins that burst with concentrated flavor.

What sets this roll apart is the perfect balance of textures. The exterior boasts a satisfying crust that gives way to a tender, slightly chewy interior. Each walnut piece adds a delightful crunch, while the raisins provide pockets of natural sweetness that make every bite a little different from the last. It’s comfort food that doesn’t compromise on sophistication.

*Perfect pairing: A strong cup of coffee or black tea that can stand up to those robust flavors.*

### Oatmeal Raisin Scone: Breakfast Dreams Come True

Forget everything you think you know about dry, crumbly scones. Levain’s oatmeal raisin scone is a revelation that will ruin you for all other scones. This isn’t just a breakfast pastry—it’s a love letter to the perfect morning.

The oats aren’t just sprinkled in for show; they’re woven throughout the dough, creating a wonderfully hearty texture that’s both tender and satisfying. The raisins are plump and juicy, clearly chosen with care and mixed in with the perfect ratio to ensure every bite gets its share of sweetness. But what really elevates this scone is its incredible moisture content—somehow managing to be both substantial and delicate at the same time.

The slightly crumbly exterior gives way to an interior that’s so moist and flavorful, you’ll find yourself savoring each morsel. It’s the kind of scone that makes you understand why the British made such a fuss about tea time.

*Pro tip: Warm it slightly and add a pat of butter. Trust me on this one.*

### County Roll: The Dark Horse Champion

While the whole wheat walnut raisin roll and oatmeal raisin scone might steal the spotlight, the County roll is the quiet achiever that deserves equal acclaim. This unassuming beauty might not have the obvious appeal of fruit and nuts, but what it lacks in flashy add-ins, it makes up for in pure, unadulterated bread perfection.

The County roll showcases Levain’s mastery of the fundamentals. The crust achieves that perfect golden-brown color that promises—and delivers—a satisfying crunch. Inside, the crumb is soft, airy, and has that distinctive tang that speaks to proper fermentation and time-honored techniques.

This is the roll that reminds you why good bread is considered the staff of life. It’s versatile enough to complement any meal, substantial enough to stand alone, and delicious enough to make you appreciate the artistry that goes into seemingly simple baking.

*Serving suggestion: Split it open while still warm, drizzle with good olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky salt. Pure perfection.*

## Why These Three Reign Supreme

What makes these particular Levain offerings stand out in a bakery full of tempting treats? It comes down to three key factors:

**Quality ingredients that shine**: Each component in these baked goods tastes like the best version of itself. The walnuts are fresh and toasty, the raisins are plump and flavorful, the oats add genuine texture and taste.

**Masterful technique**: These aren’t just thrown-together pastries. You can taste the skill and experience in every bite—from the perfect fermentation in the County roll to the ideal moisture balance in the scone.

**Satisfying substance**: These are treats that actually satisfy. They’re not just sweet confections that leave you wanting more five minutes later. Each one has the heft and flavor complexity to be truly fulfilling.

## The Verdict

In a world full of trendy bakery items and Instagram-worthy pastries, Levain’s whole wheat walnut raisin roll, oatmeal raisin scone, and County roll represent something increasingly rare: timeless, expertly crafted baked goods that prioritize flavor and satisfaction over flash.

These three items have earned their place as my go-to Levain picks not because they’re the most photogenic or exotic, but because they deliver consistent, soul-satisfying deliciousness every single time. In my book, that’s what real editor’s picks are all about.

*Have you tried these Levain favorites? What are your must-order items? Share your thoughts in the comments below!*

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