At the end of a good story comes the words, “And they lived happily ever after”. Everyone loves the idea of happy endings with all of the problems resolved in a neatly packaged narrative. It ends off the complex roller coaster of emotions with pure bliss. In the same way, dessert finishes off a meal with the sweet taste of joy. Even if a meal is absolutely horrendous or gluttonous satisfaction, there’s always room for dessert, right? So, for this last post, there is no other way to end off but with dessert. This week, we harness our sweet teeth for Crust and Crumb Cafe.
Established in 2020, Crust and Crumb Cafe took up residence on Beaver Avenue as an artisanal cafe under the vision of chef-owner, Amber Winkler. Additionally, Winkler sought to create the perfect treats to go with her excellent caffeinated drinks. As you walk into the cozy cafe, you immediately light up as a display case is full of eye-catching goodies. Despite being a cafe, the real star is the sweet treats.
At Crust and Crumb, their menu contains a cornucopia of baked goods, like cupcakes, cookies, scones, tarts, and cheesecakes. These yummies are not only delicious to look at, but they fulfill the soul. Whatever you get will satisfy any craving. My first time, I got the pear and gorgonzola tart. Although some may find the idea of blue cheese with sweet fruits dreadful, the pear and gorgonzola surprisingly complemented each other. Moreover, their cookies and cupcakes combine the feeling of home with innovation. The oatmeal raisin spice cookie is massive with perfect bits of crunch, chew, and sweetness. However, the main attraction definitely is the cheesecake.
Made daily, Crust and Crumb’s cheesecakes come in fruity, chocolate-y, and even savory varieties. When my friends and I went, we each got different kinds: lemon, s’more, and double chocolate. And, to put it simply, they each ~Slapped~. Not only are these decadent, but C&C also provides hefty slides that would make Cheesecake Factory envious.
As we indulged, let’s take a look into the rich history of cheesecakes. Coming from Greek origins, cheese cake served as celebratory foods that combined simple ingredients like flour, wheat, honey, and, of course, cheese. Over time, the Romans got a hold of the recipe and altered it to fit their palates. Eventually, cheese cakes spread and passed down through history. For instance, Henry VIII’s court even partook in the evolution of cheesecake. Eventually, cheesecake began to resemble what we know today. In the US, Arnold Reuben became the main creator of New York Style cheesecake when he experimented on a cheese pie. Ever since, NYC has been serving up mouth-watering cheesecakes (with the help of Philly).
Even though New York reigns over cheesecake, C&C gives it a run for their money as State College’s best. So, after a meal, head over to Crust and Crumb for a delectable dessert to finish it off.
What’s your favorite dessert?
-Rachel
Crust and Crumb Cafe- 115 E Beaver Ave, State College, PA 16801
Pro-Tip: Go early because they sell out quickly!
One of my favorite desserts is cheese cake, and that double chocolate cheese cake looks like it is calling my name…..
Cheesecake is my favorite dessert! Crust and Crumb has so many to choose from, I am in cheesecake heaven! I will definitely be finding my way there before the end of the semester!
My favorite desert is certainly ice-cream. It is something I can eat after any meal. However, I have been to a Cheese Cake factory and will never decline a slice. The kinds you mentioned hear sound amazing and make me want to visit. C&C. Additionally, I have enjoyed reading you blog this semester and wish you luck at PSU.
My favorite dessert is definitely brownie, ideally with ice cream involved! I have always been a fan of little bakeries, but they don’t usually sell ice cream. When I do go to one, I am mainly interested in their cupcakes because I am not a big fan of cheese cake. I would love to go to Crust and Crumb Café after reading this and try one of their cupcakes if they have them! 🙂
Hey Rachel! This is was literally the first place I visited for desert after I first came to state college. The place is absolutely stunning and serves one of the best desserts in town. I have only tried their cheesecake but really excited to try pear and gorgonzola tart. I think your blog perfectly defines the taste of the desserts with very artistic nature. I will miss reading your blogs because it gave a very unique suggestions of places to try that is not available elsewhere on the internet.
Wow, you make me more and more excited to step foot on campus in the next semester. I truly enjoyed all of these virtual food adventures I got to go on while reading through your blog. I might actually come back from time to time to remember all of the popular food locations you suggested!
This place looks really good! I’m taking this semester from home, but when I’m back on campus in the fall I’ll definitely have to check it out! Admist all of the classwork and studying, I assume most Penn State students aren’t able to explore the State College area to search for new food finds, so I think its great that you focused your blog on it!