Sweet and Savory Seasons bakes love in every bite

By S. MORRISEY | Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR

Temple native Anita Cooney, owner of Sweet and Savory Seasons Bakery, has a simple goal: to make people happy through delicious food. Her passion for baking and love for the community have transformed her career, taking her from paralegal work to owning one of Temple’s most beloved bakeries.

Since opening at Temple Mall in 2022 and relocating to 7 W. Central Ave. in downtown Temple in June 2024, Sweet and Savory Seasons Bakery has become a local favorite. The bakery now occupies a charming space in a historic early 1900s building, with original ceilings and a welcoming pink-themed interior. Anita’s decision to move downtown has been a perfect fit.

“The downtown community has been so warm and welcoming,” she said.

In October 2024, readers of the Temple Daily Telegram named Sweet and Savory Seasons one of the best bakeries in town. Anita is humbled by the recognition, crediting God for inspiring and guiding her, and her husband, retired Navy veteran Michael Cooney, for his unwavering support.

Every morning at 4 a.m., Anita and her son, Brendan, are busy crafting the sweet and savory treats that greet customers when the doors open at 8 a.m. But the baking doesn’t stop there. Bakers and customer service specialists Aaron Burwell and Susan Phelps continue baking throughout the day to keep the treats coming.

The bakery offers a broad selection of core items, from cookies and cupcakes to kolaches and paninis, with seasonal favorites that rotate throughout the year.

“One of the best things about the bakery is the rotating menu,” Aaron said. “What you see on display on Monday will be slightly different on Tuesday, and what you find in December will look a bit different in March. It keeps things exciting for regulars and new customers alike.”

Sweet and Savory Seasons’ commitment to the community goes beyond its menu. Every Saturday after closing, the team donates leftover items to displaced and less fortunate residents.

“We want to give back some of what the community has given us,” Anita said warmly.

This generosity, paired with their delicious offerings, has built a loyal following. Regular customer Robert Hamlin said he can’t choose a favorite — he loves all the sweet and the savory treats equally. Along with baked goods, the bakery also offers “The Candy Bar,” a selection of classic candies enjoyed by both kids and adults.

Though the bakery closes at 3 p.m. most days, it reopens for First Friday in downtown Temple evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. to join in the monthly celebration.

For special occasions, Sweet and Savory Seasons offers custom cakes and goodies, making it a one-stop shop for all your sweet and savory needs.

If you haven’t stopped by yet, now is the perfect time to experience this local gem for yourself. With a menu that changes with the seasons and a staff who treats everyone like family, a delicious experience awaits at Sweet and Savory Seasons Bakery. Whether you’re visiting for breakfast, lunch, or a custom order, one thing is clear — Sweet and Savory Seasons Bakery is, as Brendan says, “full of love.”

Sweet & Savory Seasons
Address: 7 W. Central Ave., Temple
Phone: 254-239-5018