Customers Will Dance a Jig Over Great Harvest’s St. Patrick’s Day Specials

Great Harvest Bread Co. is baking up something special for St. Patrick’s Day – fresh, warm, made-from-scratch Irish Soda Bread and Gouda and Stout bread, Mint Chocolate Bliss Cookies and Irish Coffee cake. These breads have an enthusiastic following among Irish-Americans and anyone who appreciates the taste and legacy of these traditional and contemporary recipes.

“We love the amount of excitement generated from recipes that date back to the 1800s,” said bakery owner Patricia Diaz. “It’s truly astounding how beloved these breads have become over the years. We love knowing its breads will grace tables this month, especially for special Lent observances and Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations.”

One of the most popular breads this month is Irish Soda Bread. This recipe originated in the Irish Isles around 1840 and features a cross sliced in the top, which some believe wards off evil. The majority consensus, however, seems to be that it aided in baking and cutting equal quarters or slices. This bread became a staple of the Irish diet, served warm or toasted with a dab of butter and preserves.

Originally founded in 1976 in Great Falls, Mont., Great Harvest has more than 220 bakeries located throughout the nation including Alaska and Hawaii. All bakeries are individually owned and operated, and no two are alike.

Great Harvest is known for handcrafted breads made with freshly ground whole wheat purchased from family-owned farms. The neighborhood bakeries create an array of legendary fresh-baked breads and sweets, as well as specialty items during the holidays. Great Harvest mills its whole wheat daily. The fresh flour is used within two days to guarantee the best taste and nutritional value.

Customers are encouraged to come in the bakery this month for a free slice of this month’s specialty breads and treats. The bakery is located at 1019 Mission Street. Bakery hours are 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

on Saturday, and 7:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit www.greatharvestsouthpasadena.com .