The Most Delicious Bakery Is Hiding Inside This Unsuspecting Texas Gas Station
By Katie Lawrence|Published July 30, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Most gas stations in the middle of nowhere don’t have much to show for themselves besides dingy bathrooms and mediocre coffee. The opposite is true for Hruska’s in the tiny town of Ellinger, located midway between Houston and Austin on Highway 71. Inside you’ll find some of the most delicious + authentic kolaches and baked goods you’ve ever had, plus a charming atmosphere that lets you know you’re in the great state of Texas.
Judging by its unassuming appearance, you would never believe this little convenience store has some of Texas' most delicious kolaches. Open since 1912, Hruska's is family owned and operated and an absolute delight for travelers on Highway 71.
You'll find the inside very different from that of your everyday gas station. Murals of the store's early days line the walls, adding character and charm to the atmosphere.
What truly sets Hruska's apart from other rest stops is its full-service bakery. Nearly 20 different types of kolaches as well as cookies, pigs-in-a-blanket, and breads are all made fresh daily.
Kolaches are available in fruit flavors like apple and lemon, cream cheese varieties such as chocolate and strawberry, and even cottage cheese and poppy seed if you prefer living on the wild side. It doesn't get much more authentic than this!
The pastries are just as delectable. Cinnamon rolls, banana bread, and apple turnovers are just a few of the seemingly endless treats available. Bring home more than you think you'll need - after your first bite, you'll understand why!
Hruska's is basically a mini-supermarket, so you can stock up on any other necessary road trip essentials (but what else could you possibly need when you have a box full of goodies?).
If you want to experience the bliss that is fresh-baked European sweets, stop at 109 W State Hwy 71, Ellinger, TX 78938 next time you're driving between Houston and Austin. Try to get there as early as possible because the best kolaches tend to sell out before afternoon!
Have you ever been to Hruska’s? What about this quaint little kolache shop? Are there any other small-town bakeries in Texas that deserve to be recognized? Let us know your favorites!
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