6 Michigan Gluten Free Bakeries You Can’t Miss This Year

Traveling or living with a gluten-free diet can feel limiting, but Michigan has a growing number of bakeries proving that flavor doesn’t have to be sacrificed. From cookies and cupcakes to breads and specialty treats, these bakeries are creating gluten-free options that locals and travelers rave about. If you’re exploring the Great Lakes State, here are some gluten-free bakeries worth seeking out.

1. Ethel’s Edibles (St. Clair Shores)

Stepping inside Ethel’s Edibles, you’re hit with the aroma of sweet, buttery treats. It’s not your ordinary bakery, every item is gluten-free, from chewy cookies to their legendary Pecan Dandy bars. Local grocery stores carry their bars, but the shop gives you the best selection.

While the storefront may be compact, the flavor is anything but small. Staff are quick to chat about their favorite treats and will help you navigate the gluten-free options. Shoppers often leave with more than they planned, thanks to the variety lining the cases.

Ethel’s has earned a loyal following for its quality and creativity. The bakery’s commitment to a dedicated facility means you never have to question what’s going into your dessert. Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth or want something to bring home, Ethel’s Edibles in Michigan is a safe bet for gluten-free goodness.

2. Third Coast Bakery (Traverse City)

Third Coast Bakery puts a creative spin on gluten-free baking. You’ll spot bright cupcakes and playful donuts as soon as you walk in, each one made without gluten or dairy. Visitors often talk about finding something new every time, from seasonal muffins to inventive flavors.

Situated in Traverse City, this spot draws summer tourists and locals alike. The bakery’s staff welcomes questions and enjoys sharing which treats pair best with a morning coffee. For many, it’s the highlight of a trip to northern Michigan.

What makes Third Coast special is its commitment to inclusivity. Not only is everything gluten-free, but much of it is also allergy-friendly, making it easier to bring the whole group. The shop’s vibe, fun, bright, and just a bit quirky, reflects the joy they put into every batch.

3. Rise Authentic Baking Co. (Grand Rapids)

Rise Authentic Baking Co. in Grand Rapids has become a destination for anyone seeking desserts and breads that are both gluten-free and imaginative. From the moment you walk in, the space feels vibrant, plants, natural light, and a menu board filled with options that surprise first-time visitors.

The bakery is 100% gluten-free, but it doesn’t stop there: most items are also vegan, soy-free, and refined sugar-free, making it one of the most inclusive bakeries in Michigan. Their case rotates daily with creative pastries like chai-spiced donuts, frosted cookies, and muffins made with seasonal ingredients. On weekends, the cinnamon rolls tend to sell out quickly, drawing regulars who line up early. Customers also praise their gluten-free bread loaves, which hold up well for sandwiches and toast.

What makes Rise stand out is the balance of indulgence and health-minded baking. You can grab a brownie that tastes decadent while still being safe for nearly every dietary need. In Grand Rapids’ growing food scene, Rise Authentic Baking Co. has set the standard for what gluten-free should taste like.

4. Zingerman’s Bakehouse (Ann Arbor, gluten-free options)

Zingerman’s Bakehouse in Ann Arbor is one of Michigan’s most well-known bakeries, drawing visitors from across the state. While it isn’t a fully gluten-free facility, their careful approach to cross-contamination and clear labeling have made it a trusted stop for many with dietary restrictions.

The gluten-free lineup isn’t treated like an afterthought, items like their dense, rich brownies or moist almond pound cake are prepared with the same dedication as the rest of their famous offerings. Walking into Zingerman’s, you’ll notice the bustle of regulars and travelers alike. Staff are trained to answer questions about ingredients and preparation, which adds an extra layer of comfort for those navigating allergies.

Everything gluten-free is displayed with clear signage, and visitors often remark on how confidently they can shop here. Beyond the products, there’s a sense of history in every bite, with recipes that have been refined over decades. For gluten-free eaters visiting Ann Arbor, it’s an opportunity to enjoy Michigan’s most iconic bakery without feeling left out.

5. Fourth Coast Cafe and Bakery (Kalamazoo)

Fourth Coast Café & Bakery in Kalamazoo isn’t just a coffeehouse, it’s a neighborhood institution that has long welcomed everyone, including those who need gluten-free options. Tucked into a cozy corner near downtown, the café has been fueling locals for decades with fair-trade coffee, hearty meals, and an attached bakery that quietly excels at inclusive baking.

The gluten-free breads and pastries here stand out because they’re crafted with the same care as everything else on the menu. On my visit, I tried their gluten-free muffins alongside a latte and was surprised at the texture, light, flavorful, and far from the dense imitations you sometimes find elsewhere. Locals told me the gluten-free brownies and sandwich bread are consistent favorites, often selling out by afternoon.

Staff members are open about ingredients and careful in preparation, giving peace of mind to those with dietary needs. Fourth Coast isn’t a flashy spot, but that’s exactly why it’s beloved. It feels like home, with gluten-free options that make sure everyone at the table is included.

6. Rumi’s Passion (Plymouth)

Some bakeries quietly do their work, but Rumi’s Passion built its name on consistency. Opening in 1995, it became a beacon for those in Michigan wanting bread without worry. The shop feels inviting, with cases full of muffins, cookies, and loaves that tempt even the gluten-eaters.

Each morning, you’ll find Detroit-area families stocking up on sandwich bread and baguettes that hold up to any filling. Their donuts and brownies make it almost too easy to forget you’re in a gluten-free shop. Staff remember regulars and know the right recommendations for first-timers.

What sets Rumi’s Passion apart is its dedication, everything is made in a dedicated gluten-free facility. Customers mention the peace of mind they experience shopping here. Bread is always fresh, and specialty items rotate, so there’s often something new. For families or travelers, Rumi’s Passion has made living gluten-free in Michigan a little easier.