Not every city offers a public gluten free bakery. For instance, I live in Flint, Michigan. For me, the closest dedicated gluten free bakery is located at least 30 minutes away. Which is why I appreciate small home-based bakers. They open their home to make holidays possible.

Little G’s Bakery, located in Grand Blanc Michigan, offers special order cakes, prepared in a dedicated gluten free kitchen. Owner Gretchen Wallace loves being able to use her baking skills to make others feel special, especially those with dietary restrictions. Read more about this cottage law business, through my interview with Gretchen, below.

1. What inspired you to become a dedicated gluten free baker?

I have always loved the creative aspect of decorating cakes. My focus shifted to creating gluten-free cakes after my Celiac diagnosis. Now, my youngest is following in mom’s footsteps with gluten issues. Therefore, I work hard to make sure we get to enjoy fun cakes on all of our birthdays.

2. Are there other highlights of your baked goods? Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc.?

The other top 8 allergens are present in my kitchen. I make vegan cakes upon request.

3. What steps do you take to guarantee your products are gluten-free?

All of my cake ingredients are certified gluten free. I don’t use any gluten free wheat starch. I never use oat flour in my cakes. I do occasionally use oats in other things, but I only use oats that are labeled gluten free.

I am a dedicated gluten-free baker and no longer use wheat flour in my kitchen. The space I make my baked cooks is 95% gluten free. I do have a High Functioning autistic son who has two (pre-packaged) foods that he eats that are not gluten free. Those items are always put in bowls for him that are not used for baking.

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by Little G’s Bakery?

A couple families have become repeat customers. They express how happy they are to have something cute, and something they and/or their family can all enjoy. They have always commented that other family members haven’t even realized they were eating gluten free cake.

5. What would you like consumers to know about Little G’s Bakery?

I love pouring my heart into creating a custom design, with the customer. Even though they eat gluten free, they should still enjoy a fun cake on their special day. Many of us with gluten issues do not get to indulge on special days. Therefore, I love that I can be the one to provide a little indulgence for all of us as well.

Little G’s Location, Hours and Contact Info

Home Based Business in Grand Blanc, MI

Preferred Method of contact – 989-239-2692 or email

Facebook | Instagram | Email

Little G’s is one of many gluten free bakers across the state of Michigan.  Click this link to see a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakeries in Michigan, complete with interactive map! Looking for more local eats? Check out my list of gluten free baked good options at Michigan Farmers Markets. 

The post Little G’s Gluten Free Cakes & More- Grand Blanc, MI appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

**This is an interview with the owner. Please scroll to bottom of the page for bakery address, phone number, website, email, and social media links.**

Allergy Free Bakery is the creation of Chris Farraj. His son lives with several different food allergies. Chris wanted to create something, not only for his son, but for everyone- kids and adults- who live with food allergies.

Chris Farraj has hired long time baker, Daniel Rutty, as lead manager for the bakery. He’s worked in a variety of bakeries, and is excited about what the Allergy Free Bakery has to offer those in Macomb County. Learn more about the bakery in Daniel’s answers, below.

1. What inspired you to become a baker? Why the focus on gluten-free?

I have been in the baking industry for almost 20 years. I have always enjoyed making beautiful creations so others can enjoy them. Offering gluten free and food allergy conscious baked goods is so important. There are so many people who have allergies or gluten issues, and so few places that cater to them.

We want everyone to have the chance to enjoy what so many others, who don’t have issues, are able to have on a daily basis. We want people and families to be able to enjoy parties, family gatherings, or events and not have to worry about being left out or becoming ill.

2. Are there other highlights of your products?  Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc

At the Allergy Free Bakery, we are TOP 9 ALLERGEN FREE (Dairy, Eggs, Wheat, Soy, Peanuts, Tree nuts, Fish, Shellfish, and Sesame). We are also looking into Kosher Certification at this time. In addition, we use non artificial dyes with some of our products. Our dyes come from a company that is also Certified Gluten Free, Top 9 Allergen Free, and is plant based.

3. What steps do you take to guarantee that your products are truly gluten-free?

We do not allow any of the Top 9 allergens on the premises. Even employees will not be allowed to bring in meals or drinks that contain an allergen. As part of our training, all employees will participate and be trained properly in food handling, good manufacturing practices, and allergens.

Management carefully screens all products and ingredients. We ask all manufacturers and distributors about their food safety protocols, and steps they take to prevent any chance of cross contact with allergens.

Our proprietary flour blend, which is gluten free, is made by a company that is:

• Certified Gluten Free
• Top Eleven Free (milk, egg, peanut, tree nut, wheat, soy, fish, crustacean/shellfish, mustard, sesame, sulphites)
• Corn Free
• GMO Free
• Kosher OU Parve
• Vegan Appropriate (no ingredient or processing are from animal derivatives)
• Packaged in Recycled and Recyclable Boxes, Printed With Vegetable Ink

Along with their Gluten Free Flour Mixes, they are also providing us cake mixes, (yellow and chocolate), brownie mix, and a pancake/waffle mix, which follow gluten free certifications and standards, like their flour mixes.

4. Do you use oats at The Allergy Free Bakery? Are they certified gluten free?

A couple of our products will contain oats. Our oats are certified gluten free and grown under a purity protocol. Our vendor sources oats from Bay State Milling.

5. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by your business? 

We officially open on September 12th, 2023, so our feedback it limited. However, you can read this review from a very happy mom, on our Facebook page.

“Today I picked up their fall donut assortment. This included Apple Cider, chocolate with dyefree sprinkles , powdered sugar, and plain donuts. They were absolutely amazing! So soft on the inside and crispy on the outside! The way a donut should be! But most of all, 100% safe for my 6 year old son with tree nut, soy, dairy, gluten, and egg allergies! Thank you so much we are forever grateful for you guys bringing this bakery to our area.” ~ Kayla D.

6. What else would you like consumers to know about your products and your business?

The Allergy Free Bakery is truly a place for everyone, not just for those who have allergies. While our products may be free from allergens, we are full of deliciousness! If you have a certain allergy outside of the Top 9 List, we will be more than honored to sit with you and see how we can meet your needs.

Allergy Free Bakery Location, Hours and Contact Information

The Allergy Free Bakery

50421 Hayes Rd. Shelby Township, MI 48315

Hours: Mon-Fri 7 am – 6 pm; Sat 8 am – 5 pm; Sun 8 am – 3 pm

586-900-2253 (586-900-CAKE)

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Allergy Free Bakery is one of many gluten free bakers across the state of Michigan.  Click this link to see a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakeries in Michigan, complete with interactive map! Looking for more local eats? Check out my list of gluten free baked good options at Michigan Farmers Markets. 

** All photos used from The Allergy Free Bakery Facebook page.

Originally Published September 2023

The post The Allergy Free Bakery appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

**This is an interview with the owner. Please scroll to bottom of page for bakery address, phone number, website, email, and social media links.**

As so often happens, my wonderful followers introduced me to this gluten free baking business. Located in Midland, Off the Wheaten Path fills a much needed niche. To be honest, gluten free options in the Flint/ Midland / Saginaw / Bay City region are lacking. 

I first visited this business at the Midland Farmers Market in 2022. However, since then owner Kelly Carlin has opened a new storefront on Isabella Rd! Not only are the baked goods delicious , but Kelly Carlin is incredibly helpful. She offered insight on places to grab a gluten free lunch, and her favorite places for coffee. Read more about this gluten free business, in her answers below.

1. What inspired you to become a baker? Why the focus on gluten-free?

I grew up in the kitchen. As soon as I was old enough, I was making my own meals and baking cookies around the clock. I enjoyed every aspect of baking – from creating to enjoying or sharing my baked goods. However, I didn’t realize during those formative years that I had undiagnosed Celiac Disease. I was miserable for so long. I received my diagnosis later in life, and I’m so glad to finally feel better. 

2. Are there other highlights of your products? Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc? Local ingredients?

We offer many vegan/gf options. (Including cinnamon rolls!) I take cross contact prevention very seriously. I try to accommodate additional “free from” special orders, including dairy, egg, nut, dye, soy, and corn free. In addition, I like to use produce from local growers. One of the farmers at the market has the best carrots I’ve ever tasted, and we use them in our carrot cake. 

3. What steps do you take to make sure your products are truly gluten-free?i.e. only use certified products? call companies?

As much as possible, I use certified gluten free products, including certified gluten free oats. I check the labels on everything, even certified products. Due to my own Celiac Disease diagnosis, I keep no gluten in our kitchen. When preparing orders that are free from additional allergens, I bake them separately with cleaned, sanitized utensils. I package them immediately to avoid cross contact with other allergens. I would never take the risk of harming someone with any of my baked goods.

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by your business?

There are many stories and I can’t pinpoint one. However, I am continually encouraged by those who first discovered my booth at the market. Most would do a double take, and smile with excitement when they realize they can actually purchase and eat a delicious gluten free baked good. Having Celiac Disease myself, I know just how exciting that is from my own personal experience!

5. What would you like consumers to know about your products and your business?

I’m passionate and love what I get to do! In addition to the baked goods that we make, we also sell a small selection of gluten free groceries. Plus, we have fun gluten free themed t-shirts that we sell at our store.

In addition, our space is available for your special events. We’ve hosted birthday parties and even a wedding reception. We’d love to help you and your loved ones have a safe gluten free celebration.

Off the Wheaten Path Location, Hours and Contact Information

Off The Wheaten Path
579 E Isabella

Midland, MI 48640
Website | Facebook | Instagram| Email

Off the Wheaten Path is one of many gluten free bakers across the state of Michigan.  Click this link to see a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakeries in Michigan, complete with interactive map! Looking for more local eats? Check out my list of gluten free baked good options at Michigan Farmers Markets. 

All photos provided by Off the Wheaten Path

The post Off The Wheaten Path – Midland, Michigan appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

**This is an interview with the owner. Please scroll to bottom of page for bakery address, phone number, website, email, and social media links.**

I met the owner of Rumi’s Passion, Steve Ciric, and his family years ago when I helped organized the Lansing Gluten Free Fair. People would flock from across the state of Michigan to buy their gluten free baked goods. While the fair no longer exists, people still travel far and wide to their store in Plymouth. Located only 15 minutes from IKEA, it’s great place for a road trip.

If you were to ask me my favorite items to buy there, it would be hard to choose. They offer a great selection of sweet treats. However, they also make pasties, pizza crust, and other savory items. They’re sliced bread gets rave reviews, as well. Learn more about this business in my Q&A, below.

1. What inspired you to become a baker? Why the focus on gluten-free?

I’ve been a baker for decades. In reality, my family has been in the baking industry for over 30 years. We owned Wild Flours bakery 8 years ago and customers began to ask about gluten-free options.

After some research I saw that I needed a dedicated facility in order to safely offer gluten-free items. So we closed down our conventional bakery and opened Rumi’s Passion in 2010. You can read more about our adventure in opening our business the Plymouth-Canton Patch.

(This article is from an interview with Stan Ciric, the original owner of Rumi’s Passion. New owners took over in 2021.)

2. Are there other highlights of your products? Low sodium, fat free, etc?

We offer dairy-free, soy-free, corn-free, and vegan options. Some of our items are sugar-free as well.

3. What steps do you take to insure that your products are truly gluten-free?

All of our ingredient suppliers provide us with fact sheets to confirm they are gluten-free.

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by your business?

You can find many reviews from happy customers on our Facebook page, including this one –
“I special ordered unfrosted cutout cookies so my daughter could have the experience of frosting legit Christmas cookies. Rumi’s cookies are AMAZING! I truly wouldn’t have known they are gluten-free and dairy-free. Thank you so much!”

5. What would you like consumers to know about your products and your business?

We are able to do custom products for customers who have restrictions beyond a gluten-free diet.

While Rumi’s Passion offers a large assortment of baked goods, they also offer other gluten free pantry items. From chips and crackers, to tamari and snack bars, it’s a fantastic place to grab those items you may not be able to find anyhwere else. They also support other Michigan businesses, by stocking items from Full Flavor Foods and Old World Gluten Free. They also serve Great Lakes Coffee in their bakery, so you can get a hot cuppa with your gluten free donut!

They also supply items for area restaurants, such as the Union Joints chain of eateries and Mr. Mike’s Grill. You can find a limited selection of Rumi’s Passion products at Holiday Market, Nino Salvaggio, Plum Market and Westborn Market in the gluten-free freezer section. They do not ship.

Location, Hours and Contact Information

Rumi’s Passion
41106 5 Mile Rd
Plymouth MI 48170
(734) 335-7145
Open Tuesday & Wednesday 10 am-5 pm, Thursday & Friday 10 am – 6 pm, Saturday 9 am – 3 pm

Website / Facebook  / Instagram / Email

Rumi’s Passion is one of many  bakeries across the state of Michigan offering gluten-free options. Check out my master gluten free bakery list, which includes an interactive map!

Originally published March 2016

The post Rumi’s Passion Gluten Free Bakery – Plymouth, MI appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

**This is an interview with the owner. Please scroll to bottom of page for bakery address, phone number, website, email, and social media links.**

Love can make us do amazing things. Compassion can cause us to go to the extra mile. When it comes to food, it can motivate a baker to play with recipes and experiment with crazy ingredients. It might even push them to burn out a few food processors in the pursuit of excellence. It encourages them to persevere even after many failed attempts. Enter Third Coast Bakery

That’s why Heather Burson of Third Coast Bakery started a gluten-free baking business. She saw the needs of her family, friends. and community. Her labor of love has paid off tremendously. Her customers are happy. The local hospital is eager to carry her baked goods. People are ordering her products from out of state. Because love never fails.

Read more about Burson’s baking journey in her own words.

1. What inspired you to become a baker? Why the focus on gluten-free?

Throughout my life, my family and I have been surrounded by health issues and food battles. At the center of it all seemed to be common denominators – white flour, white sugar, hydrogenated fats, chemicals, GMOs, high-fructose corn syrup, dyes, artificial sweeteners and more. Watching so many loved ones struggle, I launched a personal mission to create healthy, delicious options that went against the typical American diet.

Plus, those with Celiac Disease and those with wheat/gluten-sensitivities are an important part of the population that have been terribly overlooked and under-served by the commercial food industry. I saw a gaping need and decided to step up and fill it, not because it’s a fad, but because it’s a real health need.  Now, it’s my daily goal to keep raising the bar for allergen-safe baking. At Third Coast Bakery, we create so that others who are usually left out can FINALLY celebrate.

2. Are there other highlights of your products?  Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc?

Third Coast Bakery is a dedicated, allergen-safe bakery creating 100% gluten, dairy and soy free products. In addition, we offer many vegan specialties. Through listening to my customers, I learned that many people who cannot tolerate gluten also struggle with co-occurring food allergies, especially dairy, eggs and soy.  So, I upgraded my bakery to be 100% dairy and soy free

I also use as many organic ingredients as possible, and feature fresh local fruits as they come into season.  Customers seeking refined sugar free, low-glycemic, or no sugar added are also encouraged to shop with us, as we keep many sugar alternatives on-hand, and create custom orders based on their individual needs.

3.  What steps do you take to insure that your products are truly gluten-free?

We adhere to the strictest safety standards, using ONLY certified gluten-free ingredients, including the often over-looked baking powders, sugars, and extracts.  I interview ingredient manufacturers prior to purchasing. If the manufacturer can’t guarantee the ingredient is gluten-free, then it doesn’t go in our bakery.

Even our gluten-tolerant staff members refrain from bringing potential contaminants into the facility via lunch bags and snacks. No sandwiches, no cereals, no pretzels allowed! :).  I keep careful logs of what we produce, how much we produce, and when we produce it, so we can follow recall safety standards if needed. We have complete control over who/what goes in and out of our doors. (To see Heather talk about this further, check out my video interview with her.)

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by your business?

I think the most satisfying part of the job comes when each mother trusts us with her child’s sensitive body.  It takes great faith and courage to hand that trust over to someone else. From the 4-year old child whose weekly highlight is our cookies, to the long distance cake order for a 3-year old, to a family’s favorite vacation memory, I’m reminded why I started Third Coast Bakery. One family in particular has made us a part of several family celebrations, from their daughter’s surprise engagement cake, to her wedding cake, to her baby shower!  The reviews on our Facebook page are also a great place to discover individual testimonies.

5.  What would you like consumers to know about your products and your business?

Our customers are the reason we exist. We bake with intentionality, mindfulness, and respect. And with a dollop of frosting on top, of course. Third Coast Bakery is in this for the long haul. And for special occassions. We make specialty cakes for birthdays and weddings, and other celebrations.

Aside from our storefront, you can also find our products in other local stores, such as Oryana, Olesen’s and nothern Michigan Tom’s Food Markets. In addition, many Traverse City area coffee shops sell our products. Find them all on the “Where to Buy” tab on our website. We also ship anywhere in the continental United States. Order thru the “Shop Online” tab on our website.

Third Coast Bakery Location, Hours and Contact Information

Third Coast Bakery
523 Munson Ave,
Traverse City, MI 49686
(231) 421-8696
Monday – Saturday 6:30 am – 4 pm
Sunday 8 am – 2 pm
Website / Facebook / Instagram  / Email

Third Coast Bakery is one of many great, dedicated gluten-free bakeries across the state of Michigan. Click this link for a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakers in Michigan as well as an interactive map so you can visit them yourself! Follow me on Facebook  and Instagram and for pictures and live videos too!

Originally Published March 2016

The post Third Coast Bakery: A Gluten Free Labor of Love appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

**This is an interview with the owner. Please scroll to bottom of page for bakery address, phone number, website, email, and social media links.**

A Fixture In My Gluten Free Life

As I update this post in 2025, I realize that this picture of Linda Fedewa is the perfect image for this post. I’ve lived with Celiac Disease for 20 years, and she’s been a fixture of my gluten free life thru all of them. From helping with a Celiac Disease support group, and imparting baking wisdom, she’s a gluten free blessing. (Check out her pie making video, here!)

But Linda is more than just a sweet person. She’s a talented cake maker, and daresay, artist. Featured in magazines, and chosen to make special cakes for events, she has amazing decorating skills. Whether it’s cake, cookies, or cupcakes, she never ceases to impress me with her talent. Read more about her business, in the interview below.

1. What inspired you to become a baker? Why the focus on gluten-free?

I’ve been baking all of my life. For 40 years I’ve been baking cakes, cookies, and everything in between. I am known for my cake decorating skills, making wedding cakes for parties big and small.

My Celiac Disease surprised me almost three decades ago. It made it more difficult to run my traditional business, A Piece O’ Cake. We sold the business and chose to focus on baking for the gluten-free needs among us. I spent years, dedicated to developing the perfect gluten free flour blend.

2. Are there other highlights of your products?  Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc?

We can accommodate dairy free and nut free requests. We feel clear, transparent communication is key to anything we bake for customers. When love when potential brides come to talk about their special day. We eat cake together, and get to know one another, and discuss how we can meet your special needs.

3. What steps do you take to insure that your products are truly gluten-free?

Personally living with Celiac Disease, I know the utmost care that must be used for a gluten free baked goods. We verify the gluten free status of the ingredients we use.

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by your business?

I, Margaret, can speak from personal experience. We ordered a fantastic chocolate cake for my father’s 60th birthday. It was gorgeous, delicious, and our non-gluten free family members all raved about it. When my father died a few years later, she not only came to pay her respects, she also brought me gluten free cookies. Amid the hecticness of that time, she wanted to make sure I had something safe to eat. She’s not only a great baker, but a wonderful, kind-hearted woman.

5. What would you like consumers to know about your products and your business?

After 35 years of baking, Linda states she’s “retired.” She still takes orders for very special cakes and cookies, along with holiday baking. That includes pies, cookies, cheesecakes, Graham crackers, you name it! They don’t ship, but will deliver their specialty cakes. Linda says she’s always down for a fun adventure!

Location, Hours and Contact Information

Linda Fedewa
Portland, MI
Email
(517) 775-1177
Contact her through email or phone call to order
Linda Fedewa does not operate a storefront, and bakes from her home.

Linda Fedewa is one of many great, dedicated gluten-free bakers across the state of Michigan. Click this link for a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakers in Michigan, as well as an interactive map so you can visit them all!

Originally published March 2016

The post Linda Fedewa – Michigan Gluten Free Cake Artist appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

**This is an interview with the owner. Please scroll to bottom of page for bakery address, phone number, website, email, and social media links.**

I first learned about Sweet Bree’s bakery through word of mouth. A fellow blogger mentioned this bakery as I searched for vendors for an event. When I visited their Facebook page, I was blown away with the beauty of the cakes. Immediately, I reached out to Sweet Bree’s.

From my first conversation with Sweet Bree’s owner Briana Willis I realized she isn’t just a passionate baker, she’s a compassionate person. She caught up with me between her shifts at the local hospital, where she works as a nurse. Ironically, I recently underwent surgery, and had more questions than answers. She graciously responded to my concerns, and truly aided in my healing.

That is Willis’ goal in her bakery business as well. Sweet Bree’s wants to give you peace of mind about eating foods that you miss, while making sure they are prepared to meet your needs. Between her nursing job and her home-baker business, she is poised to be a great advocate for Celiac Disease. Learn more about Sweet Bree’s in Willis’ own words.

1. What inspired you to become a baker? Why the focus on gluten-free?

Almost 8 years ago, my middle daughter received a Celiac Disease diagnosis. Such a huge adjustment at first. Even as a nurse, there was much I didn’t know. After some time, I managed to convert our favorite family recipes to gluten-free dishes. We often entertained, and guests never realized they were eating was gluten-free baked goods. Compliments were passed back and forth. I realized then that -”Food can be free of gluten and still be tasty!” And, that’s when the business began.

2. Are there other highlights of your products? Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc?

I consider myself a custom baker. There are customers who are not gluten-free but need a cake to be dairy free, etc. With me, they get both. I cater to all people with food allergies and intolerances. Past orders include soy free, corn free, and other speciality treats. I don’t use oats in my baked goods. My kitchen is inspected & licensed by the state of Michigan, and I am Serv-Safe certified.

3. What steps do you take to insure that Sweet Bree’s products are truly gluten-free?

I buy labeled gluten-free ingredients. In addition, I verify with manufacturers all ingrdients not specifically labeled gluten free. I use dedicated cookware, mixers, utensils, etc. My kitchen is 100% gluten-free, although it is not certified by an outside source.

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by Sweet Bree’s baked goods?

I have many repeat customers, and lots of referrals from happy eaters. I receive many emails and texts from happy customers. They state how my baked goods allow them to enjoy treats that havent’ tasted in years. The reviews on Facebook say a lot about my products. I’m very proud to be able to make great gluten-free baked goods for the Celiac community and others as well.

5. What would you like consumers to know about your products and Sweet Bree’s?

I really enjoy cooking & baking. I love the challenge of trying to come up with new treats. When possibly, I buy organic and local ingredents. At first, I sought my business license because I wanted to sell wholesale. However, I don’t desire doing that exclusively. We lose connection with our customers that way.

People with these kinds of issues want to talk to the person making their food and connect with someone who can empathize with what they’re going thru. I’d really love to have a little cafe/bakery where someone can walk in and eat without having to worry about dietary restrictions and food allergies.

Sweet Bree’s Location, Hours and Contact Information

Sweet Bree’s
Rochester, MI
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Email
(586) 925-0555
Hours vary – check her Facebook page for locations and times

Right now you can find Sweet Bree’s products at pop-up events around the greater Detroit area and through special order.  She is sometimes present at Tri-County Celiac Support Group meetings as well.

Sweet Bree’s Gluten Free Bakery is one of many great, dedicated gluten-free bakers across the state of Michigan.  Click this link to see a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakeries in Michigan, complete with interactive map!

The post Sweet Bree’s – A Metro Detroit Gluten Free Baker appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.