Iowa is known for many things: incredible state fairs, pigs, Midwestern manners. And cinnamon rolls. Iowans know their cinnamon rolls — in fact, the Iowa State Fair hosts a bona fide Cinnamon Roll Competition each year! And in Iowa, folks are serious about their cinnamon rolls. And there’s one bakery in Iowa that’s become known for its ooey, gooey cinnamon rolls. People drive from all over Iowa to try the cinnamon rolls at Scenic Route Bakery, and it’s easy to see why.

Scenic Route Bakery is a charming bakery/cafe located in Des Moines's adorable East Village.
Mona Flick/TripAdvisor
The bakery was opened in 2014 by father/daughter duo Katy and Mark Nelson.
It's very unassuming from the outside, but don't let that fool you.
A Alsaadi/Google Local
Scenic Route Bakery has garnered quite a following - and reputation.
The bakery has become popular with customers and critics alike.
Scenic Route Bakery website
Zagat even called Scenic Route Bakery one of the "top reasons" to drive to Des Moines.
Scenic Route Bakery's mission is to give people a place to slow down and take the "scenic route" -- which is best enjoyed with a cinnamon roll in hand.
Scenic Route Bakery/Facebook
Owner Katy Nelson is a recent graduate of the DMACC Culinary Institute and Chicago’s French Pastry School -- and her skills are evident in Scenic Route's buzz-worthy cinnamon rolls.

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Scenic Route's cinnamon rolls are a thing of beauty.
Joe M/TripAdvisor
Using real butter and French pastry techniques., these aren't your average cinnamon rolls.
The market has gained a huge following, often setting up shop at local farmers markets.
Scenic Route Bakery/Facebook
The bakery always attracts long lines.
In 2020, Scenic Route began offering delivery service for its most popular items.
Scenic Route Bakery website
Customers could order a 4-pack of Scenic Route Bakery's warm, frosting-topped treats.
Scenic Route Bakery's cinnamon rolls are like a warm hug.
Scenic Route Bakery website
This is next-level comfort food at its best. If you find yourself in Iowa, definitely pay a visit to this worth-the-drive bakery for a cinnamon roll. You won't be disappointed.

Is there anything better than a warm, fresh-from-the-oven bundle of cinnamon, carby goodness? We don’t think so. If you have a favorite, worth-the-drive bakery in Iowa, please share it with us in the comments below! And definitely check out these 11 Restaurants In Iowa That Prove That Brunch Is The Most Amazing Meal Of The Day for more must-visit brunch spots in the Hawkeye State.

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350 E Locust St #104, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA