Mrs. Hanes' Moravian Cookies: A Century-Old Holiday Tradition

As the holiday season approaches, the ovens at Mrs. Hanes' Moravian Cookies in Clemmons, North Carolina, are in full swing, producing the beloved Moravian Cookies that have been a festive staple for generations.

 

Established over a century ago, this family-owned bakery continues to hand-roll, hand-cut, and hand-pack approximately 10 million cookies annually. Their six signature flavors include the ever-popular Ginger Crisp, alongside Sugar, Lemon, Black Walnut, Chocolate, and Butterscotch.

 

With 90% of their business occurring in November and December, the bakery becomes a hive of activity during the holidays. Jedidiah "Jed" Hanes Templin, the fourth-generation owner, emphasizes the collective effort required: "It's all hands on deck at Christmas." The 36,000-square-foot facility, situated on his great-grandfather's former cow pasture, buzzes with energy as the team works tirelessly to meet the seasonal demand.

 

The legacy began in 1920 when Bertha Crouch Foltz started baking cookies in her home. She introduced the Moravian Sugar Crisp, leading to the bakery's original name: Moravian Sugar Crisp Co. Her daughter, Evva Foltz Hanes—the "Mrs. Hanes" behind the brand—expanded the business, making the cookies renowned worldwide. Evva's image graces every package, a testament to her enduring influence.

 

Today, the bakery remains committed to traditional methods. "We're the only ones who still make them by hand," notes Ramona "Mona" Hanes Templin, Evva's daughter. This dedication ensures each cookie maintains the authentic taste and texture cherished by customers.

 

In October 2025, the bakery hosted its annual Holiday Open House, inviting visitors to experience the magic firsthand. Guests enjoyed mini bakery tours, sampled various treats, and explored Moravian gifts and local favorites. The event underscored the bakery's deep roots in the community and its commitment to preserving Moravian heritage.

 

Located at 4643 Friedberg Church Road in unincorporated Arcadia, near Clemmons, the bakery stands as a testament to the family's Moravian ancestry. Nine generations are interred in the nearby cemetery of Friedberg Moravian Church, founded in 1773. This connection to history is palpable in every cookie produced.

 

Operating one shift five days a week, the bakery employs 35 full-time staff, with an additional 20 part-time workers during the Christmas season. The team comprises local residents, some of whom have been with the bakery for decades, reflecting a shared commitment to quality and tradition.

 

For many, these cookies evoke cherished memories. "For a lot of people, it's the memories of the ginger cookies they had when they were growing up," Jed Templin explains. The handmade nature of the cookies ensures they taste just like those from childhood, reinforcing the bakery's reputation for authenticity.

 

As the holiday season unfolds, Mrs. Hanes' Moravian Cookies continues to be a beacon of tradition, offering a taste of history and a reminder of the enduring power of family and community.