Gluten Free NYC (Babycakes)

That's me in NYC and I'm eating a donut.  A donut.  Up until recently, a picture like this was either a far-fetched dream or only a brief memory of my former non-gluten free life. But not anymore.  And special moments like this one are constantly being created by Babycakes bakery in NYC.  An adorable bakery that makes gluten free, egg free, soy free, dairy free, refined sugar free, vegan and kosher treats that taste out of this world good!

Obviously, this was a main stop on my Gluten Free NYC itinerary.  Look how cute it is! It's amazing how many fantastic gluten free goodies come out of this small kitchen.  Erin McKenna is the wonderful mastermind behind Babycakes and is also the author of two cookbooks. She's basically superwoman because she juggles writing cookbooks, managing three bakeries, all while raising her little baby girl! I don't how she does it all!

And she sure is an inspiration.  Erin not only makes dreams come true with her amazing gluten free baked goods, but she has also managed to create a signature look that you just can't ignore.  Something between homey and sexy soda shop with lots of pink.  Now, that's what I call brilliant!  

A couple days before travelling to NYC, I got a tip that Erin would be there early Saturday morning.  I just had to try and meet her.  When I walked in, the smell of fresh baked sweet treats filled the air.  The sound of baking sheets being set on the counter and knives being dipped into tubs of icing signaled the preps for a busy day.  And behind the counter icing cupcakes was Erin.

She wasn't behind a desk or supervising, she was icing.  I was so impressed by this. The woman has written cookbooks, has been interviewed on national television, and has been in numerous articles, but at the end of the day, she is one hard-working Babycake.  And a very sweet one too!  She took a quick break to meet with me.  She told me that she just came back from visiting her Orlando bakery and is in the early stages of testing for another cookbook.  I'm telling you, superwoman.

Of course, I couldn't leave without a few goodies for the road.  Just look at these donuts! Salted Caramel, Sprinkle, and Mocha Crunch!  Ridiculously good.

Breads, cupcakes, cookies, donuts... there were so many options.  Erin's creations have gone where no allergy-free bakery has gone before.  It was such a refreshing experience. I left Babycakes so happy to have met such a great role model and so inspired to make more gluten free dreams, actual realities on a beautiful plate.  Thanks Babycakes!