If you’ve ever wandered through the aisles of Shady Maple Farm Market, you know it’s more than a store—it’s a celebration of Lancaster County traditions. And at the heart of that experience is the Shady Maple gourmet department, where handcrafted treats turn ordinary days into sweet memories.
Meet the Maker: Jannette Hershey
Behind the glass “fishbowl” of the gourmet counter, you’ll find Jannette Hershey, our go-to dessert expert. Her passion for baking started in childhood and grew into a career after pastry school. From running her own bakery to leading Shady Maple’s gourmet team, Jannette brings creativity and heart to every piece of candy and cookie.
“I love working with chocolate,” she says. “It’s an art—and I get excited every day to create something beautiful.”
The Art of Handmade Candy
Building a department that produces thousands of pounds of candy each holiday season isn’t easy. It takes trial and error, customer feedback, and a lot of love. One example? Our famous peanut butter balls. They started as bars that didn’t sell—until Jannette changed the shape. Now, they’re a holiday staple.
Holiday Favorites You’ll Love
Christmas is one of the busiest seasons for the gourmet department. Here are a few must-try treats:
- Peppermint Bark: Layers of dark and white chocolate with crushed candy canes. (See recipe)
- Sand Tarts: A Pennsylvania Dutch classic, thin and delicately decorated.
- Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Ritz Crackers: A nostalgic favorite.
- Caramel Apples: Available year-round, but extra festive during the holidays.
Each piece is made by hand, often while customers watch through the glass—a unique experience that makes shopping at Shady Maple special.
Tradition Meets Innovation
For many families, these desserts are more than sweets—they’re part of cherished traditions. Jannette recalls a customer from Ukraine who found rugelach that reminded him of his grandmother’s recipe. “He counts down the months until Christmas when I make it,” she says. Stories like these inspire the team to keep old favorites alive while introducing new delights.
Visit Us Today
You’ll find the gourmet department just inside the produce entrance—turn right and look for the counters filled with fudge, snowballs, gingerbread men, and more. Whether you’re picking up gifts or treating yourself, we promise you’ll leave with something delicious.
