Discover Tracy Dempsey Originals: Tempe's Premier Artisan Bakery and Pastry Haven
Nestled at the corner of University and Priest Drives in Tempe, Tracy Dempsey Originals offers a delightful paradise for pastry lovers, featuring treats fresh from the oven.
The University Drive storefront marks the latest chapter in Tracy Dempsey's remarkable journey: from teaching English as a Second Language in Arizona State University's American English & Culture Program, to pastry chef at the award-winning Cowboy Ciao in Scottsdale, and now owner of Tracy Dempsey Originals, a premier supplier of fine pastries to the Valley's top restaurants.
With a background in French literature and language, Tracy taught ESL at ASU before pursuing her lifelong passion for pastry, sparked by an Easy Bake Oven at age four. She honed her skills at Scottsdale Community College's Culinary Arts program.
Post-graduation, Tracy worked at resorts and chef-owned restaurants before joining Cowboy Ciao as pastry chef in 2004. The 2009 recession led to layoffs, including at Cowboy Ciao. Spotting a market need, Tracy launched her business, baking pastries for restaurants.
With kitchen access from friend Steve Runyon at the Sugar Shack in Scottsdale, Tracy Dempsey Originals began. She delivered samples, securing chef Colin Campbell of Crudo as her first client. She later partnered with Carolyn Ellis of Arcadia Farms for kitchen space, growing to three accounts.
As her reputation for exquisite pastries grew, so did her clientele across the Valley. In 2012, she purchased her ideal space at 1323 W. University Drive in Tempe, drawn by its location, affordability, and vibrant community.
Today, her pastries grace menus at prestigious Metro Phoenix spots like Citizen Public House, The Gladly, The Nook (Arcadia and Downtown), The Stockyards, Uncle Sal’s, and Press Coffee—totaling 12 restaurants. Packaged brittles and specialties are available at Changing Hands Bookstore, Superstition Golf Course, and The Farm at South Mountain.
In her Tempe location, Tracy launched holiday pop-up bakeries, leading to a permanent storefront in 2015, open Thursday through Saturday (check website for hours).
The storefront fuels her creativity: "It allows me to experiment," she says. Tracy blends unconventional flavors masterfully, drawing from a keen "flavor memory"—like soy sauce caramels.
Standouts include feather-light donut muffins dusted in cinnamon sugar, chocolate mousse-lemon verbena bars, ginger creams, homemade marshmallows, and brittles like bacon pecan or red hot chili. Her shortbreads innovate with five-spice and smoked salt, candy-capped mushrooms, or pink peppercorn and coffee. Sharing cakes are elegant 5-inch rounds for 2-4 people.
Beyond baking for restaurants and customers, Tracy volunteers with charities like The Joy Bus, co-founded by friend Jennifer Caraway. As a board member, she supports this chef-backed organization delivering meals to homebound cancer patients.
Tracy Dempsey, artist and entrepreneur, brings culinary innovation, warmth, and generosity to Tempe. Visit 1323 W. University Drive to explore her gleaming cases of irresistible pastries—your new happy place awaits.
