Pastry Chef Salary in Minneapolis, MN
Pastry Chefs in Minneapolis, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $26.80 per hour, which translates to about $1,072.00 per week, $4,645.33 per month, and $55,744.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Minneapolis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industries in the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Minneapolis, MN?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Minneapolis varies depending on experience and the specific hiring establishment. Below is an overview of earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.10 | $884.00 | $3,821.33 | $45,968.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.80 | $1,072.00 | $4,645.33 | $55,744.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.70 | $1,308.00 | $5,650.00 | $67,616.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Minneapolis Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work primarily occurs in the kitchen with limited direct customer interaction. Their compensation is usually based on their salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Pastry Chef Salary in Minneapolis vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn approximately $25.00 per hour, or about $52,000 annually.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Minneapolis earn slightly more, at $26.80 per hour and $55,744 annually, reflecting factors such as local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Minneapolis for Pastry Chefs
Some nearby areas to Minneapolis offer higher pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Minneapolis: $28.50 per hour
- Uptown Minneapolis: $27.30 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods can provide Pastry Chefs with an opportunity to earn above the city average.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Minneapolis?
Several factors impact the salary range of a Pastry Chef in Minneapolis:
- Experience and Expertise: Pastry Chefs with advanced skills in complex desserts and years of kitchen experience generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bakeries, hotels, and fine dining restaurants may offer better compensation compared to casual or fast-casual environments.
- Specialized Skills: Mastery in chocolate work, cake decorating, or artisan pastry skills can boost earning potential.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certificates or specialized pastry training often positively affects salary.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Minneapolis
Launching a career as a Pastry Chef in Minneapolis involves several important steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the Saint Paul College Culinary Arts Program and Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts offer comprehensive pastry and baking training focusing on both classical techniques and modern trends.
- Obtain Certifications: Consider certifications such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation, which validates foundational pastry skills, and the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate food safety knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a pastry cook or assistant in kitchens helps develop hands-on skills critical to success.
- Continue Learning: Embracing new techniques and staying current with pastry trends can enhance career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Minneapolis
Minneapolis hosts several well-known bakeries and pastry shops actively recruiting Pastry Chefs:
- Patisserie 46
- Salty Tart
- Bellecour Bakery
- Rustica Bakery
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Minneapolis Work At
Pastry Chefs in Minneapolis commonly work across a variety of establishment types:
- Fine Dining Restaurants and Boutique Bakeries: These locations often pay higher wages due to the sophistication and complexity of pastries produced.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger operations may offer steady hours and benefits, often with competitive salaries.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: Pastry Chefs here may earn comparatively less but benefit from higher volume and consistent schedules.
- Specialty Dessert Shops: These typically provide opportunities for creative expression and can offer varying pay scales based on prestige and clientele.
The choice of establishment significantly influences salary potential and job responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Minneapolis for Pastry Chefs
For those interested in roles related to pastry work, the following careers share similar skills and work environments:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Minneapolis
Pastry Chefs should be informed about labor and tax regulations to ensure compliance and manage finances wisely.
- Details on Minnesota state labor laws and employment standards are available at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
- For federal tax rules and guidance, visit the Internal Revenue Service.