Butter Bakes owner Chelsea Kolke and all her sourdough creations

A boast I’ve often heard: “The best bread is what you bake at home.” Which is true only if it’s the home of Chelsea Kolke.

A Red Seal certified chef, Chelsea is the owner of Butter Bakes, producing exceptional, handcrafted sourdough breads and treats in her home micro bakery in southeast Calgary.

An eminently chewable sourdough focaccia

Here’s how it works. Every week, after online orders have closed, she brings her small-batch sourdough starter to life, mixing it with organic, locally grown and milled grains. A day later, she bakes the resulting sourdough breads, cookies and scones in a large, specialized oven in her kitchen. The cooled baked goods are then packaged and displayed out front, awaiting pickup from a parade of dedicated customers (delivery is also available).

Almost overwhelmed by the choices, I start with a rosemary, sea salt and olive oil focaccia ($12), ripping off big chunks and chewing happily for several minutes. Second, how can I resist an oversized loaf featuring caramelized honey, brown butter and Scottish oats ($10)? Or a pain de campagne ($10), perfect for sandwiches.

Packaged breads and treats awaiting pick up.

All the sourdough loaves are wonderfully tangy and chewy, chewy but with a tender crust. Truly some of the best sourdoughs I’ve sunk my teeth into.

Butter Bakes Micro Bakery
7408 24 Street SE, Calgary
Order online by 5 pm Wednesday, pickup Friday post 2 pm
403-827-7711