Phoenix’s food scene boasts local treasures like Urban Cookies Bakeshop, a family-owned business that has been delighting customers with handcrafted treats for nearly two decades. Founded by husband and wife team Brady and Shaun Breese, this bakery combines Brady’s culinary talent with Shaun’s marketing expertise to create a sweet destination that has become a cherished part of the Phoenix community.
Their commitment to quality ingredients, community involvement, and resilience through challenges has earned them both loyal customers and national recognition.
Urban Cookies Bakeshop: A Family-Owned Phoenix Institution
Urban Cookies Bakeshop’s journey began in 2005 when Brady and Shaun Breese transformed their Sunday morning idea into a thriving business. What started with a signature dark chocolate walnut cookie has evolved into a Phoenix institution celebrating 19 years of success. Through economic downturns, a forced relocation, and the COVID-19 pandemic, the bakery has persevered by embracing their “Stronger Together” philosophy, which perfectly captures the essence of their family-owned operation and dedicated team.
Quality forms the cornerstone of Urban Cookies’ business model, evident in every aspect of their operation. From selecting premium ingredients to making everything by hand and from scratch, the bakery refuses to compromise on excellence. This commitment extends to their hiring practices, where they assemble the best team members who share their values.
By learning from mistakes and growing from customer feedback, Urban Cookies has created an inclusive space where all people can come together to celebrate life’s moments or find comfort in a sweet treat after a challenging day.
Menu Highlights and Signature Treats
Urban Cookies Bakeshop offers an impressive array of freshly baked treats that feature both traditional favorites and creative innovations. Their cookie selection includes classics like the Milk & Dark Chocolate Chip cookie alongside unique creations such as the Cowboy Cookie, which combines brown sugar, dark chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, pecans, oats, and an unexpected twist—kettle potato chips.
The Saguaro Sugar Cookie pays homage to Arizona’s iconic cactus with its honey glaze and natural green jimmies, while the Double Chocolate Sea Salt cookie balances sweetness with Maldon sea salt for a sophisticated flavor profile.
Recognizing diverse dietary needs, Urban Cookies ensures everyone can enjoy their treats by offering options made without common allergens. Their Dark Chocolate Walnut cookie is crafted without dairy, eggs, or gluten ingredients, instead featuring walnuts, coconut, and oats for texture and flavor. The Confetti cookie provides a dairy-free and egg-free option that doesn’t sacrifice taste or visual appeal.
With additional varieties like Pineapple Coconut, Oatmeal Almond Raisin, and Lemon Honey Shortbread, the bakery maintains a rotating selection that keeps customers returning to discover new favorites while still enjoying their tried-and-true staples.
Community Impact and Social Responsibility
Urban Cookies Bakeshop’s commitment to community service began on day one with a special arrangement with Florence Crittenton, the non-profit organization that provided their first kitchen space. In exchange for using the facility, the Breeses taught at-risk teen girls valuable baking and business skills. This foundational relationship continues today through ongoing donations and support.
The bakery has expanded its community involvement by providing job training and mentorship opportunities in partnership with organizations like Goodwill of Central Arizona and the Southwest Autism Resource and Research Center, creating meaningful pathways for diverse populations to gain valuable work experience.
The bakery’s social responsibility extends beyond education to addressing immediate community needs. Every month, Urban Cookies partners with For Goodness Cakes to ensure children in foster care receive personalized birthday cakes and with Ryan House to create custom cakes for children navigating life-limiting journeys.
Their waste reduction initiatives demonstrate environmental consciousness through creative solutions—selling yesterday’s sweets at half price and partnering with Waste Not to redirect excess food to people in need. By sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible and using recyclable packaging, Urban Cookies maintains a holistic approach to sustainability that aligns with their values of quality and community.
Accolades and Practical Information
Urban Cookies Bakeshop’s reputation for excellence has earned them notable recognition throughout their history. Their most significant achievement came in 2011 when they won Food Network’s Cupcake Wars Season 3 “Miss USA” competition, catapulting them into national spotlight.
The bakery continues to receive consistent local acclaim, including multiple “Best of Phoenix” awards from Phoenix New Times and “Best of the Valley” honors from Phoenix Magazine, most recently being named “Best Cookies” in 2023. Their Orange Blossom cupcake earned special recognition as “Best Cupcake” in 2013, and they’ve even been featured in “The Great American Chocolate Chip Cookies Book” by Carolyn Wyman.
Visitors to Urban Cookies can find the bakery at 2325 N. 7th St., Phoenix, AZ 85006, located at the southeast corner of 7th Street and Sheridan. They’re open Monday through Friday from 9am to 6pm and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, though they’re closed on Sundays and select holidays. Ample parking is available behind the building, including numbered curbside pickup spaces and three handicap spots. The location offers easy, no-step access to both their take-out window and front retail entrance.
For those planning a visit, pre-ordering online is recommended as they frequently sell out of popular items. Follow them on Instagram at @urbancookiesaz to see their latest creations and special offers. Have you tried Urban Cookies? Comment below with your favorite treat from this Phoenix family bakery!
