Ashley Witting and Kevin McAllister are changing the way Torontonians think about dessert, one vegan, gluten-free cinnamon bun at a time.
Without any formal baking training, Ashley classifies herself as a home baker. “All of my recipes come from my own kitchen,” she explains. She and Kevin started selling their homemade vegan and gluten-free baked goods at local farmers’ markets. “We were amazed at how well they sold, and not just among people with dietary restrictions and food sensitivities,” says Ashley. The high demand for tasty gluten-free and vegan alternatives inspired the couple to quit their jobs and take a chance on their very own bakeshop.
In December 2010 Ashley and Kevin opened Toronto’s first and only 100% vegan and 100% gluten-free bakery. Inspired by the success of the first Bunner’s Bake Shop location, they launched a second outpost in the city’s eclectic Kensington Market neighbourhood in June 2014. They now have over 20 employees, two locations and a best-selling cookbook.
