At Cress Spring Bakery we use traditional methods to create whole grain, naturally leavened, brick-oven baked bread, granola, and pastries using organic, locally sourced ingredients.

Our wood fired brick oven is the heart and soul of our bakery. We grind our own flour for the freshest flavors, and use our own hands to create hearty, eminently satisfying loaves.

Because people, as well as our natural leavening, thrive when unhindered by pesticides or other chemical residues, we use wholesome, organic ingredients. Most of our breads consist simply of whole grains, water, and salt, as naturally leavened bread is delicious without the addition of fats, dairy, or sweeteners. We use only pure, deep well water and unrefined Celtic sea salt, hand harvested from salt marshes off the coast of Brittany and containing a balance of many minerals.

In addition to our standard breads, we also offer granola and pastries, incorporating locally grown organic produce. By working with local farmers we ensure that our ingredients are fresh and at the peak of their flavor and vitality. We consider ourselves part of a local food economy, and strive to buy ingredients directly from farmers whenever possible, as close to home as possible.


We sell our bread to the hungry masses at the Dane County Farmer's Market in Madison, Wisconsin.

 Built in 1996, Cress Spring Bakery is the ongoing adventure of Jeff Ford, who has been pondering the mysteries of fermentation since he dropped out of business school 30 years ago.

NYT Magazine Feature Article

Photo by Bill Lubing