Gluten-Free Options at The Baked Bear
For dessert lovers with gluten sensitivities, The Baked Bear is a popular destination that doesn't leave anyone out. They have built a strong reputation for offering a selection of gluten-free and vegan-friendly options, ensuring more customers can build their perfect custom ice cream sandwich.
The Dedicated Gluten-Free Cookie Choices
At The Baked Bear, the gluten-free journey begins with the cookie itself. Customers can expect to find at least two consistent options, which are also often vegan:
- Vegan/Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip: A classic for a reason, this option allows gluten-sensitive diners to enjoy the familiar, comforting taste of a chocolate chip cookie.
- Vegan/Gluten-Free Fudgy Brownie: For chocolate lovers, this rich, brownie-like cookie provides a decadent base for any ice cream sandwich.
It is important to note that while these are the standard offerings, availability may vary by location and time of day, so it's always best to confirm with the staff when you order.
Beyond the Cookie: Gluten-Free Ice Cream and Toppings
Just because you've chosen a gluten-free cookie doesn't mean your flavor adventure has to stop there. The Baked Bear also provides a variety of gluten-free ice cream flavors to pair with your cookies. Some of the most frequently mentioned options include:
- Mint Chip
- Dark Chocolate
- Old Fashioned Vanilla (also egg-free)
- Vegan Chocolate Chip (oat-based, also gluten-free)
It is crucial to ask the staff about current gluten-free ice cream options, as not all flavors are guaranteed to be safe. When it comes to toppings, caution is advised. Cross-contamination risk is high with shared topping bars, so always request fresh, unused toppings from the back if you have a serious allergy.
The Baked Bear's Cross-Contamination Protocols
For individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance, simply having gluten-free items on the menu is not enough; the preparation process is equally critical. The Baked Bear has received praise from many customers for their robust cross-contamination procedures.
How The Baked Bear Minimizes Risk
When you place an allergy-related order, the staff typically follows a series of steps to ensure your dessert is prepared safely:
- Separate Storage: Gluten-free cookies and ingredients are stored in a designated, separate area, often in the back or a covered section, away from regular items.
- Fresh Gloves: Employees will change their gloves before handling your order to prevent any transfer of gluten from their hands.
- New Scoop: A fresh scoop is used to retrieve ice cream for your order, avoiding shared utensils.
- Dedicated Ice Cream Tub: For severe allergies, staff are trained to open a fresh tub of ice cream from the back, rather than using one from the display that may have been exposed to crumbs.
- Isolated Prep: The ice cream sandwich is assembled on a clean, separate surface to prevent contact with other ingredients.
- Heat Press Precaution: If you want your sandwich warm, they often use parchment paper on the heat press to create a barrier and prevent contamination.
Comparison: Gluten-Free vs. Standard Preparation
To understand the level of care involved, it's helpful to compare the standard process with the protocol for gluten-free orders.
| Feature | Standard Preparation | Gluten-Free (Allergy) Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Cookie Source | From front display racks, mixed with all other cookies. | Retrieved from a separate, covered storage area or the back. |
| Ice Cream Source | Scooped from main display tubs. | Scooped from a fresh, sealed tub from the back to minimize risk. |
| Scoop Usage | Shared scoops are used for various flavors. | A new, clean scoop is used exclusively for the allergy order. |
| Employee Gloves | Typically, gloves are not changed between different orders unless visibly dirty. | Fresh gloves are put on specifically for preparing the gluten-free item. |
| Toppings | Taken from communal topping bars. | New, unused toppings from fresh containers in the back are used upon request. |
What to Know Before You Order
While The Baked Bear is very accommodating, it is important to remember that they are not a dedicated gluten-free facility. For those with celiac disease, this means there is always a small risk of cross-contamination, even with the best protocols. To ensure the safest experience:
- State Your Needs Clearly: Inform the staff that you have a gluten allergy, not just a preference. Use specific terms like "celiac disease" if applicable.
- Ask for Their Protocol: Politely ask the staff to confirm they will be following their allergy protocol, including using fresh gloves and getting ingredients from the back.
- Verify Storage: If you can see the cookies, confirm that the gluten-free ones are kept in a separate, sealed container.
Conclusion
In summary, yes, The Baked Bear does have gluten-free cookies, along with a range of suitable ice cream options. Their commitment to offering safe options for customers with dietary restrictions, particularly through their strict cross-contamination protocols, is a major plus for those who need to avoid gluten. By communicating your allergy to the staff and understanding their procedures, you can feel more confident in enjoying one of their delicious custom ice cream sandwiches.
Remember to verify options and procedures at your specific location, as practices can sometimes vary. But for many, The Baked Bear offers a rare and welcome opportunity for a fun and safe dessert experience.
