This article is sponsored by our partner, Nani Sweets.
In the United States, demand for gluten-free pastries and treats is continuing to climb—so much so that Starbucks recently announced plans to roll out a dedicated gluten-free line of foods. But producing gluten-free items—and keeping the production process entirely separate from gluten-rich foods and ingredients—is challenging for any setting, let alone tight cafe kitchens.
Enter Nani Sweets, a women-owned wholesale bakery operating out of a dedicated gluten-free and nut-free facility. The bakery’s new Amazing Cookies and Amazing Cakes lines are designed specifically for the coffee shop grab-and-go case: Products are individually wrapped, certified across multiple allergen categories, and engineered to deliver the texture and flavor customers expect from premium baked goods.
We spoke with Carlos Orta, co-owner at Nani Sweets, to learn more about how coffee shops can use prepared foods to serve customers with dietary restrictions, all without adding operational complexity or sacrificing quality.
You’ve built Nani Sweets to be gluten-free, nut-free, and kosher. That sounds like a challenging way to start a bakery. What drove that decision?
It definitely has been challenging, but Nani Sweets started out of necessity. Our founder discovered she was gluten-intolerant and realized how limited most dessert options were, especially ones that actually tasted good. She began developing her own gluten-free recipes, and once people tried them, it became clear there was a real need.
What market trends around gluten-free, nut-free, or plant-based foods should coffee shops be paying attention to?
At coffee trade shows, we hear the same thing over and over: Customers are actively asking for gluten-free options. This includes people with celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, and customers choosing gluten-free for health reasons. Even major chains like Starbucks have said expanding their gluten-free menu is a priority.
Coffee shops want options so no customer feels left out. Coffee businesses should know that more customers now expect tasty plant-based options, clearly labeled gluten-free and nut-free foods, simple clean ingredients, and convenient grab-and-go items, with variety and transparency playing a big role in earning trust and repeat visits.
What operational advantages does the individually wrapped, grab-and-go format provide for busy coffee shops?
Individually wrapped products make things easier for everyone, and keep allergen cross-contamination out of the picture altogether. Amazing Cookies are zero-prep in most cases, and customers can grab their own at the register. Amazing Cakes can go straight from the clear bag onto a plate, making them easy to serve as-is or dress up with toppings like fruit, sauces, or ice cream if a shop wants to elevate the presentation.
What are your recommended retail prices for Amazing Cakes and Amazing Cookies?
Most shops price them in the $3.50 range for cookies and around $7 for the plated cakes, depending on their market.
How can coffee shops integrate Amazing Cookies and Amazing Cakes into their existing grab-and-go programs? Do they require any special handling or training?
No special training is needed. Cookies can stay out, as they have a long shelf life. Cakes contain dairy so refrigeration helps extend freshness. Many shops just pull what they need each morning.
You also offer custom packaging and private labeling. Who’s a good fit for that program?
[It’s a good fit for] shops that want an unbranded or custom-branded option and value food safety. We always recommend keeping the products sealed to maintain freshness and prevent cross-contamination.
Do you have a personal favorite from the Amazing Cookies or Amazing Cakes lineup? What makes it stand out?
The Cinnamon Sugar Amazing Cake. The texture surprises people every time. It is light, soft, and melts in your mouth. It completely changes what people expect from a gluten-free dessert. With that said, the Lemon Blueberry is a very close second.
Sponsored by NANI SWEETS
Nani Sweets is a certified women-owned wholesale bakery specializing in gluten-free, nut-free baked goods made in a dedicated allergen-free facility. Their Amazing Cookies and Amazing Cakes lines serve coffee shops nationwide.
