The Heart Behind the Oven: Ashley’s Mission
Bitty Birds Bakery wasn’t born out of a simple hobby; it was born out of a necessity that many in the Celiac Disease community know all too well. Founded by Ashley and Kevin Miedema, the bakery’s roots lie in Ashley’s own diagnosis. After years of navigating social events where safe food was often dry, crumbly, or entirely absent, Ashley decided to stop searching for the perfect gluten-free treat and start creating it herself.
Her mission was clear: to bridge the gap between safety and nostalgia. At Bitty Birds Bakery, the goal is to provide good old classic baked goods that don’t just meet dietary requirements but actually transport you back to your favourite childhood memories. Whether it’s a birthday party, a wedding, or a Sunday morning donut run, Ashley believes that no one should feel left out because of an autoimmune disease.
Texture That Defies Logic: The Bitty Birds Menu
If you’ve spent any time in the gluten free world, you’ve likely encountered “the doorstop”, that heavy, dense loaf of bread or cake that leaves much to be desired. Bitty Birds Bakery has gained a cult following for doing what many thought was impossible: creating textures so soft and moist that customers often double-check the label. As one customer famously put it, “I don’t know what kind of sorcery you’re doing there, but if I didn’t buy this from a gluten free bakery, I would be terrified that I just ate gluten.”
The menu is a rotating celebration of comfort food. Their signature Ring Donuts come in classic flavours like Vanilla Glaze and Chocolate Dip, while their Apple and Blueberry Fritters offer a crispy, sugary bite that is rare to find in the gluten free world. For those seeking something unique, their “Bitty Dippies”, a gluten free twist on the nostalgic Dunkaroos, are a fan favourite. From 9-inch Dutch Apple Crumble Pies to rich Coconut Cream Pies, every item is crafted to ensure the gluten free version is the preferred version, even for those without dietary restrictions.
A Sanctuary for Sensitivities
Safety is the cornerstone of Bitty Birds Bakery. Operating out of a health-inspected, dedicated gluten free and nut-free home kitchen in Iroquois, Ontario, the bakery eliminates the fear of cross-contamination. Ashley understands that Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition, not a lifestyle choice, which is why her kitchen is strictly gluten free.
Furthermore, Bitty Birds is a haven for those with multiple allergies. Many recipes are naturally vegan or can be modified to be dairy-free, egg-free, or soy-free. They also accommodate sensitivities to corn, oats, and quinoa, making them one of the most inclusive bakeries in Eastern Ontario.
Beyond the Bakery: Education and Community
Bitty Birds is more than just a place to buy cookies; it’s a platform for advocacy. Through their #FunFactFriday social media posts and blog, Ashley works to demystify Celiac Disease and build confidence in those newly diagnosed. By sharing the ease of gluten free baking and partnering with the Canadian Celiac Association, Bitty Birds Bakery is helping to foster a more informed and inclusive food community.
You can find their treats at the Kemptville and Brockville Farmers’ Markets, or stocked in the freezers of local partners like Loughlin’s Country Store and Monday Nutrition. For those planning a milestone, their custom cake and wedding services ensure your special day is delicious, safe, and entirely stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bitty Birds Bakery
Yes! Their kitchen is 100% gluten free. As the owner has Celiac disease, they maintain a strict environment where no gluten is permitted, and prioritize certified gluten free ingredients to ensure maximum safety.
Absolutely. They are a dedicated nut-free bakery. While they live on a homestead, no nuts are ever used or stored in the business kitchen area, and their facility is cleaned and sanitized before every bake.
Yes! Many of the items, including cakes and crumble pies, are made using vegan recipes or have vegan/dairy-free options available. They also accommodate sensitivities to soy, corn, oats, and more upon request.
You can find us seasonally at the Kemptville and Brockville Farmers’ Markets. They also have partner locations like Loughlin’s Country Store (Mountain, ON) and Monday Nutrition (Spencerville, ON) that carry a selection of their frozen products.
Standard custom cakes require at least 10 days’ notice, while standard menu orders require at least one week. Because they are a small-batch home bakery, their schedule fills up quickly, especially for weekends!
Yes! They love weddings. Every wedding booking includes a special Anniversary Gift, we provide a fresh treat on your one-year anniversary so you don’t have to eat freezer-burnt cake!