If you’re planning a trip to Pennsylvania and follow a gluten-free lifestyle – or just love great pastries – here’s what you need to know. From Philadelphia to Pittsburgh and the scenic Lancaster area, the state is full of bakeries and cafes serving gluten-free pastries so good, everyone loves them. Pennsylvania offers everything from 100% gluten-free bakeries to cafes with dedicated gluten-free menus, ensuring that travelers with dietary restrictions can indulge without worry while discovering some of the state’s most delicious hidden gems.
1. Square Cafe
Brunch lovers rejoice – Square Cafe in Pittsburgh has become legendary for its gluten-free pancakes and chive biscuits. Their clearly marked menu takes the guesswork out of ordering, and the trained staff understands cross-contamination concerns thoroughly.
The pancakes are fluffy and satisfying, served with real maple syrup and butter. Those chive biscuits have developed their own fan club, offering a savory option that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
Beyond pastries, the entire brunch menu accommodates gluten-free diners beautifully, making it a safe choice for groups with mixed dietary needs. The cozy neighborhood atmosphere and consistently excellent food have made this a local favorite that visitors quickly discover. Weekends get busy, so arriving early or making reservations helps. A perfect start to any day exploring Pittsburgh’s vibrant neighborhoods and attractions.
2. Made With Love Not Gluten Bakery
Nestled near the heart of Amish Country in Mount Joy, this charming bakery has built a devoted following with its completely gluten-free treats. Their cupcakes come in rotating seasonal flavors that taste just as indulgent as traditional versions, while their muffins and brownies offer the perfect texture without any gluten.
One of their most famous creations is the red velvet wedding cake, which has become a local legend for special celebrations. Many of their items are also vegan, making this spot inclusive for various dietary needs.
Visitors love stopping here after exploring nearby Lancaster attractions. The small-batch approach means everything is fresh, and the rotating selection gives you a reason to return. Worth the detour for anyone traveling through Pennsylvania Dutch Country.
3. The Happy Mixer Gluten Free Bakery
Voted the number one gluten-free bakery in Pennsylvania, The Happy Mixer operates in two locations – Wayne and Langhorne – making it accessible whether you’re exploring the Philadelphia suburbs. Everything here is made in a 100% gluten-free facility, eliminating any worry about cross-contamination for those with celiac disease.
Their menu includes breakfast staples like bagels and donuts alongside artisan breads and decadent cupcakes. The donuts are particularly popular, with flavors ranging from classic glazed to creative seasonal options that rotate throughout the year.
Locals rave about the quality and consistency, noting that even gluten-eating friends can’t tell the difference. The friendly staff makes everyone feel welcome, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. A must-visit for anyone seeking reliable gluten-free baked goods in the Philadelphia area.
4. Flakely Gluten Free
Located in Philadelphia’s trendy Manayunk neighborhood, Flakely has mastered the art of French-inspired gluten-free pastries. Their croissants are legendary – buttery, flaky, and remarkably similar to traditional versions that many thought impossible without gluten.
Beyond croissants, they offer danishes with seasonal fruit fillings and gluten-free bagels that have a proper chewy texture. One unique feature is their pastry ATM, which provides 24/7 access to fresh treats for those late-night or early-morning cravings.
The bakery’s dedication to quality shows in every bite, and they’ve become a destination for both locals and travelers exploring Philadelphia’s food scene. Even visitors without dietary restrictions make special trips here because the pastries are simply that good. Perfect for grabbing breakfast before exploring the Schuylkill River Trail or Manayunk’s charming Main Street shops.
5. Baked True North
Pittsburgh’s fully gluten-free bakery has earned a reputation for creating comfort food favorites without any gluten. Their cinnamon rolls are outrageously good – gooey, generously frosted, and perfect with morning coffee.
English muffins, donuts, and cookies round out a menu that also includes numerous vegan options, making this spot ideal for groups with mixed dietary needs. Everything is prepared in a dedicated facility, ensuring safety for those with severe sensitivities.
The bakery’s warm atmosphere reflects Pittsburgh’s friendly neighborhood vibe, and the staff genuinely cares about creating delicious food that everyone can enjoy. Travelers visiting Pittsburgh’s cultural attractions or catching a Steelers game often stop here for breakfast or a sweet treat. The quality rivals any traditional bakery, proving that gluten-free doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture.
6. P.S. & Co.
This Philadelphia cafe combines organic, vegan, and gluten-free baking into one welcoming space. Their cinnamon rolls have achieved cult status among locals, offering a perfect balance of spice and sweetness without any animal products or gluten.
Cupcakes come in creative flavors that change with the seasons, and their tarts showcase fresh fruit in beautiful presentations. The cafe’s commitment to quality ingredients means everything tastes fresh and wholesome without sacrificing indulgence.
While not exclusively a gluten-free facility, they take preparation seriously and have earned trust within the community. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, attracting health-conscious visitors and those simply seeking delicious food. Located conveniently for tourists exploring Philadelphia’s historic sites, it’s an ideal spot for a midday treat or light lunch that accommodates multiple dietary preferences beautifully.
7. The Butterwood Bake Consortium
Step into this Victorian-inspired Pittsburgh bakery and you’ll find yourself surrounded by creative desserts that rotate regularly. The aesthetic alone makes it worth visiting, but the gluten-free and vegan options keep people coming back.
Their rotating menu means there’s always something new to try, from elaborate layer cakes to delicate pastries that showcase seasonal ingredients. The bakers here approach gluten-free baking as an art form, resulting in treats that impress even the most discerning dessert lovers.
While not entirely gluten-free, they clearly mark which items are safe and maintain careful preparation standards. The unique atmosphere sets it apart from typical bakeries, creating an experience that feels special and memorable. Pittsburgh visitors looking for Instagram-worthy desserts and genuine quality will find both here in abundance.
8. Haasis Gluten-Free Bakery
Located in Perkasie, Haasis has mastered both sweet and savory gluten-free baking. Their honey buns are sticky, sweet perfection that rivals any traditional version, while the butter cake offers simple, comforting flavor.
What sets this bakery apart is the savory selection – gluten-free soft pretzels that capture Pennsylvania’s iconic snack, plus bagels, pizza, and quiche. Brownie cups provide rich chocolate satisfaction for dessert lovers.
Operating as a dedicated gluten-free facility gives customers peace of mind, especially those with celiac disease who need absolute safety. The variety means you can grab breakfast, lunch, and dessert all in one stop. Travelers passing through Bucks County will appreciate having both sweet treats and substantial food options available. The friendly service and consistent quality have built a loyal following throughout the region.
9. Sweet Victory
Originally operating only online and wholesale, Sweet Victory now welcomes visitors to their brick-and-mortar location in Dublin. Their petite bundt cakes have become signature items – perfectly portioned and available in flavors like lemon, chocolate, and vanilla.
Muffins, cupcakes, and crumb cakes round out a menu that’s entirely gluten-free and dairy-free. The quality remains consistently high, reflecting years of perfecting recipes before opening the physical shop.
Customers appreciate the dual-free approach, which accommodates multiple dietary restrictions simultaneously. The cakes stay moist and flavorful without any dairy or gluten, proving that restrictions don’t limit deliciousness. The shop’s convenient location makes it accessible for travelers exploring Bucks County’s scenic countryside. Whether you’re grabbing treats for the road or enjoying them with coffee on-site, Sweet Victory delivers exactly what its name promises.
10. The Blue House Bakery
Specializing in paleo, grain-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free treats, The Blue House Bakery in Fayette takes allergen-friendly baking to another level. Their chocolate chip cookies achieve the perfect crispy edges with chewy centers that cookie lovers crave.
Apple hand pies offer portable sweetness with flaky crust and spiced fruit filling, while lemon crinkle cookies provide bright, tangy flavor. Everything is made with alternative flours that create surprisingly traditional textures and tastes.
The bakery’s commitment to multiple dietary approaches means nearly everyone can find something to enjoy here. Travelers following paleo or grain-free lifestyles especially appreciate having options beyond typical gluten-free offerings. The rural location adds charm, making it feel like discovering a hidden gem off the beaten path. Stock up on treats for your journey – they travel well and taste even better.
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