White Tree Bakery settles into new Mount Vernon space

MOUNT VERNON — A bakery started from its owners house has found a more commercial space to call home.

White Tree bakery, started by owner Jen Juhl in 2021, has settled into a more visible spot after a few moves. After a quick remodel, its new home since February at 117 First St. W. fills the vacancy left by Palisades Cafe.

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“We have moved 3 times since then and are now in our final location in downtown Mount Vernon,” Juhl said told The Gazette.

The new location, now an eatery as well as a bakery, has grown to offer soup and quiche, in addition to its sweet treats. More menu growth is expected in the near future.

Juhl’s specialties include several varieties of cakes, cookies, scones and pies.

The former bistro closed in August after more than 20 years in the community. Owner Rachel Sauter changed the café’s name after buying it in 2013, paying homage to the nearby Palisades-Kepler State Park. Under previous owners like chef Matt Steigerwald, it was called Mount Vernon Cafe and Lincoln Cafe.

In the town of about 4,500 residents, White Tree Bakery was one of the only places for confections in town when it opened.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.

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