Big Sky Bread Company

Big Sky Bread Company is our favorite source for locally produced bread.  Big Sky is a franchise operation based out of Alabama.  I don't know much about their overall business strategy, but the Des Moines-area Big Sky is a family-owned and operated business.  They have a store in Urbandale, at which one can get sandwiches, breakfasts and a full range of their bakery goods, including muffins, cookies, granola, cinnamon rolls and, of course, bread.   Honestly, though, I can't speak on the store itself, as I've never been there.  Instead, I've purchased their breads in stores.  Over 100 local vendors, including most of the Des Moines area Hy-Vee supermarkets, carry Big Sky breads, and the company also sells its wares at some of the Des Moines area farmer's markets. 

I recently picked up a loaf of Big Sky's Whole Wheat Three Seed bread at the Monday farmer's market at Southridge Mall.  I've tried several of the Big Sky breads over the years, but so far my and Juli's favorite is the Three Seed bread.  This hearty, flavorful wheat bread is fortified with poppy, sesame and sunflower seeds.  It makes wonderful toast, and is great topped with peanut butter, jelly, jam or preserves, or simply butter.  At the farmer's market, I saw a variety that caught my attention, a Wyoming Sourdough bread that is advertised as having a more robust sourdough flavor than the more common San Francisco version.  No samples were available at the farmer's market, so I haven't tried it yet, but that description sounds tantalizing enough that I suspect I'll probably buy a loaf next time I get the opportunity.

Toasted Three Seed Bread topped with apricot preserves.

Those interested can check out Big Sky Bread Company's Facebook page.  Big Sky Bread Company is located at 7021 Douglas Avenue, Urbandale, IA, 50322.  Their hours are Monday through Friday 7 am to 5:30 pm and Saturday 7 am to 2 pm.