Toronto’s Sweet Revolution: The Bunner’s Bakeshop Story
Since opening its doors in 2010, Bunner’s Bakeshop has been a cornerstone of Toronto’s food scene, proving to skeptics and sweets-lovers alike that “vegan” and gluten free are not synonymous with “compromise.”
What started as a small spark of inspiration during a car ride between founders Ashley Wittig and Kevin MacAllister has blossomed into a beloved institution with locations in the Junction and Kensington Market. At its heart, Bunner’s is about more than just flour and sugar; it’s about reclaiming the joy of a childhood treat for those who thought their dietary needs had left them behind.
Baking Without Compromise
The philosophy at Bunner’s is simple: food should be kind, conscientious, and, above all, delicious. By removing animal products and gluten entirely, Bunner’s has mastered the art of the “stealth health” dessert—baked goods so rich, moist, and decadent that you’d never guess they were missing the dairy or wheat. Their kitchen is a 100% dedicated gluten free and vegan facility, offering peace of mind to the Celiac Disease community and those with severe allergies. Every muffin, cookie, and cake is a testament to the fact that plant-based ingredients can create textures and flavors that rival, and often surpass, their traditional counterparts.
The Classics: From Cinnamon Buns to Supersonic Cookies
If you walk into a Bunner’s shop, the first thing that hits you isn’t just the smell of warm vanilla—it’s the sight of their legendary Cinnamon Buns. Topped with a signature thick frosting, these buns have reached cult status in Ontario. But the innovation doesn’t stop at the classics. The “Supersonic” cookie, a nutrient-dense “power” cookie packed with seeds and dark chocolate, remains a fan favourite for those seeking a treat that gives back. Then there are the “Creamies,” a whimsical take on the cookie sandwich that pairs two soft chocolate chip cookies with a mountain of velvety vanilla frosting.
Inclusivity in Every Bite
Bunner’s recognizes that modern dietary needs are complex. Beyond being gluten free and vegan, many of their offerings are soy-free and made without refined sugars. They source high-quality, fair-trade, and local ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that every dollar spent supports a better food system. This commitment to quality has earned them accolades from NOW Magazine and BlogTO, but their greatest reward is the “moments of relief” they provide. For a parent of a child with multiple allergies, being able to walk into a bakery and say, “You can have anything in this case,” is a powerful, often emotional experience.
Celebrating Life’s Milestones
Beyond the daily cupcakes and brownies, Bunner’s has become a go-to for custom celebration cakes. From vibrant “Goth Rainbow” cakes to elegant, multi-tiered wedding cakes, they bring a sense of craft and artistry to allergen-friendly baking. Whether it’s a milestone birthday or a holiday tradition like their seasonal pumpkin pies and tarts, Bunner’s ensures that no one is left out of the celebration. They aren’t just selling cake; they are selling the ability to celebrate together, safely and deliciously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Bunner’s is a 100% dedicated gluten free facility. They take cross-contamination very seriously, ensuring that every product they sell are safe for those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerances.
While they are a 100% vegan and gluten free bakery, they do use nuts in some of their recipes. However, you have many options that are made without nuts. Please check the product labels or ask their staff for the most up-to-date allergen information.
Absolutely. They specialize in custom celebration cakes, ranging from 6-inch rounds to multi-tiered wedding designs. We recommend booking at least 7–10 days in advance to ensure availability.
They offer local delivery within Toronto and the GTA, and have select “Bake at Home” kits and cookbooks available for shipping. Fresh baked goods are currently limited to local pickup and delivery to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.
Many of the items are naturally soy-free and some are made without refined sugars. Bunner’s use high-quality ingredients like organic agave and maple syrup in several recipes. Please look for specific dietary icons on their online menu.
Yes, they have a wholesale program and products can be found in select cafes and specialty grocers across Toronto. Check their wholesale page for a map of current partners.