Step through the doors of Baxter’s, and you’ll immediately feel the special blend of comfort and energy that makes this Lee’s Summit gem more than just a donut and coffee shop. It’s a place where regulars are greeted by name, where the coffee is always fresh, and where a pastry case full of temptation beckons you to pause, stay awhile, and savor the moment.
At Baxter’s, the experience begins long before the first sip of coffee or bite of a donut. The atmosphere is bright and familiar, filled with conversation, the smell of freshly baked pastries, and the kind of warmth that only comes from a team who genuinely loves what they do.
One of the things that sets Baxter’s apart is its all-day menu, designed to match the rhythm of your day. Whether you’re swinging by for a strong morning espresso and a savory breakfast sandwich, or you’re stopping in later for a BLT and a side of donut holes, the options are always delicious, and never an afterthought.
“Our goal was to offer variety without compromising quality,” Scott Opoka shares. “We want guests to have their go-to favorites, but also be surprised by how much the menu has to offer.”
While all of Baxter’s donuts are made fresh and with serious care, there’s one in particular that’s achieved local legend status: the apple fritter. With its crisp, golden edges, tender bites of apple, warm cinnamon notes, and a glossy glaze that’s just the right amount of sweet, it’s the kind of treat that brings people back again and again.
“People tell us it tastes like comfort, and that’s exactly what we’re going for.”
The beverage menu at Baxter’s goes far beyond the usual coffee shop lineup. Yes, the espresso drinks are expertly crafted, but it’s the creative blends that often steal the spotlight.
Take the Ice Cream Turtle Mocha, for example. It’s indulgent, playful, and packed with flavor which is a perfect representation of Baxter’s approach to drinks: thoughtful, unique, and always satisfying.
“We wanted our drinks to be as memorable as our pastries,” Scott explains. “Something that people crave, not just something to wash down a donut.”
What truly makes Baxter’s stand out, though, is its balance. It’s a place that manages to feel both cozy and dynamic. The morning rush buzzes with the energy of regulars grabbing their favorites, while lunchtime eases into a slower, more relaxed vibe that is ideal for catching up with a friend or enjoying a quiet moment.
Throughout it all, the heart of the shop stays the same: great ingredients, a passionate team, and an unwavering commitment to quality and care.
Baxter’s also keeps things fresh with rotating seasonal specials that reflect the time of year and keep guests coming back for more. Fall brings pumpkin-spiced treats, spring delivers bright lemony delights, and summer cools things down with refreshing drinks perfect for warm afternoons. Even winter has its charm, with rich hot chocolate that warms you from the inside out.
Dan Vander Beek, the head of pastry and donut making, brings over 40 years of experience. He joined Baxter's after his family sold their longtime pastry business in Pella, Iowa.
From the friendly faces behind the counter to the care baked into every item, Baxter’s brings something truly special to the community. So next time you’re in the area, step inside and see why Baxter’s has quickly become a beloved part of the Lee’s Summit food scene.
We want guests to have their go-to favorites, but also be surprised by how much the menu has to offer.
People tell us it tastes like comfort, and that’s exactly what we’re going for.