Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats

Hello, New Yorkers! In our fast-paced city, where health-conscious choices are becoming increasingly important, finding truly delicious baked goods that also cater to specific dietary needs can often feel like a treasure hunt. For those navigating gluten sensitivities, sugar restrictions, or simply seeking healthier alternatives, Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats emerges as a shining beacon of culinary innovation. This isn't just another bakery; it's a dedicated haven where every treat is crafted to be gluten-free, with many options also being sugar-free, keto-friendly, or vegan. Located conveniently at the iconic Union Square Greenmarket, Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats offers a delightful array of pastries, muffins, cookies, and more, proving that "free-from" doesn't mean "free-from-flavor." We’ll delve into what makes this unique bakery a must-visit for anyone in the New York region, from its impressive menu and high-quality ingredients to its welcoming presence and the enthusiastic reviews from its growing fanbase.

Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats has clearly made a significant impact on its clientele, especially within the gluten-free community, garnering heartfelt and enthusiastic reviews. Customers are genuinely "happy it exists" and consider it a "great find for gluten-free treats." The praise extends to specific items, with oatmeal cookies being called "one of my favorites." The cinnamon sugar donuts are described as "excellent and so satisfying," a testament to their ability to deliver on classic flavors in a gluten-free format. Even with a minor note about them not staying fresh for long, the immediate enjoyment is clearly paramount. The triple chocolate muffin is celebrated as "decadent," though a reviewer noted it "dried out by the next day," suggesting immediate consumption or proper storage is key. Another specific feedback point mentions the "toffee crunch cookies" being "a bit too sweet" for one individual, indicating a personal preference rather than a flaw in quality.

The true standout, however, is exemplified by the sheer awe expressed for the pumpkin muffin with vanilla bean cream cheese frosting, hailed as "The best muffin I’ve ever had and it was gluten free/sugar free 🤯 I can’t recommend it enough - so moist and full of flavor and the cream cheese frosting tasted exactly like the “real thing.” I’m in awe! So happy I stumbled on these baked goods at the Union Square Greenmarket." This detailed praise underscores the bakery's ability to create exceptional products that transcend typical gluten-free expectations. The owner, Blaine Caravaggi, despite being described as "polite, if a bit reserved," fosters a strong sense of loyalty, with customers stopping by "every time I visit the farmer's market." The commitment to clean, high-quality ingredients (e.g., organic, fair-trade, grass-fed, pasture-raised, keto sweeteners) is deeply appreciated by patrons, who note the absence of "bitter after taste like some of the baked goods for keto lovers" and celebrate that it "Literally tastes like a regular brownie." The overall sentiment is one of gratitude and amazement, solidifying Off the Wheat as a cherished "gem" for healthy and delicious baked goods in New York.

Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats is primarily found at Union Square W, New York, NY 10003, USA. This places it directly within the iconic Union Square Greenmarket, a vibrant and bustling hub in Manhattan that attracts thousands of New Yorkers daily. While it may not be a traditional brick-and-mortar storefront at this address, its presence at the Greenmarket is a strategic and highly effective way to reach its target audience.

The Union Square Greenmarket is one of New York City's most famous and accessible public spaces, making Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats exceptionally convenient for locals. Public transportation options are abundant, with numerous subway lines converging at the Union Square-14th Street station (4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, W trains). This allows for easy access from almost any part of Manhattan, as well as seamless connections to Brooklyn and Queens. Numerous bus routes also stop around Union Square, providing additional flexibility. The market itself is a well-known destination for fresh produce and artisan goods, meaning many New Yorkers already visit the area regularly, making it a natural stop for them. While street parking can be challenging around Union Square, the extensive public transit network ensures that the bakery is highly accessible for pedestrians, commuters, and those specifically seeking out high-quality gluten-free and healthy baked goods. The continuous presence at such a popular and central market highlights its integration into the daily lives of health-conscious New Yorkers. The specific market days are Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats offers a specialized and diverse menu of baked goods, all unified by their commitment to being gluten-free, with many options also catering to sugar-free, keto, and vegan preferences.

• Gluten-Free Baked Goods: The entire menu is gluten-free, utilizing a proprietary blend of almond, coconut, cassava, and gluten-free oat flours, which acts as a 1:1 substitute for traditional flours.

• Muffins: A highly praised category, including the standout pumpkin muffin with vanilla bean cream cheese frosting (noted as gluten-free/sugar-free), cappuccino muffin with cappuccino glaze, carrot cake muffin with orange cream cheese frosting, lemon blueberry muffin, and potentially other seasonal varieties. They are known for being moist and flavorful.

• Cookies: A popular selection, including oatmeal cookies, chocolate chip cookies (made with organic bittersweet chocolate chip cookie dough), and toffee crunch cookies.

• Doughnuts: Cinnamon sugar donuts are a noted favorite, described as excellent and satisfying.

• Cakes: Offerings include flourless coconut cake with chocolate ganache, organic blood orange olive oil cake, vegan triple chocolate cake with chocolate coconut cream ganache and raspberry, and cinnamon streusel crumb cake with preserves.

• Cheese Bombs: Savory "Cheesy Cheese Bombs," descendants of "Cheese Tempters" from the original Merritt Beaten Biscuit Company, are available with seasonal ingredients.

• Keto and Diabetic-Friendly Options: A significant portion of their business, offering both sweet and savory items (like muffins, cookies, cakes, and bread varieties) that satisfy net carb, fat, and protein macros for those on ketogenic or low-sugar diets.

• Vegan Options: Several sweet and savory items are specifically vegan, catering to plant-based diets.

• In-House Made Mixes: They sell "pre-made cake and cupcake mixes that are still made in-house," allowing customers to bake their own gluten-free treats.

• Fair-Trade and Organic Ingredients: A commitment to sourcing high-quality, ethical ingredients from animal-welfare approved farms.

Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats distinguishes itself through several compelling features and highlights that make it a standout choice for New Yorkers seeking specialized baked goods.

• Fully Gluten-Free Operation: The most significant feature is that their "entire menu is gluten free." This eliminates concerns about cross-contamination and provides a safe and inclusive environment for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, which is a rare and highly valued offering in the city.

• Uncompromised Taste and Texture: Despite being gluten-free, customers consistently rave that their products "do not feel the difference in the taste" and are as moist, flavorful, and satisfying as traditional baked goods. This demonstrates exceptional skill in gluten-free baking.

• Diverse Dietary Offerings: Beyond just gluten-free, they excel in providing sugar-free, keto-friendly, and vegan options, catering to a wide array of health-conscious and lifestyle-based dietary preferences. This broad appeal makes it a versatile choice for many New Yorkers.

• High-Quality, Ethical Ingredients: Their commitment to using "fair-trade and organic ingredients," including those from "animal-welfare approved farms," resonates with consumers who prioritize clean, responsibly sourced food.

• Innovative Flour Blend: The use of Blaine's specially developed gluten-free flour blend (almond, coconut, cassava, gluten-free oat flours) showcases their dedication to creating healthy, low-carb, high-fiber, and delicious products.

• Prominent Presence at Union Square Greenmarket: Operating from a "bright and cheerful purple tent" at one of NYC's most famous farmers' markets ensures high visibility and consistent accessibility to a large, health-conscious customer base.

• Positive Customer Service: Although the owner is described as "reserved," the consistent praise from regulars who "love Blaine and her products" suggests a polite and dedicated approach to customer satisfaction.

To indulge in the unique and delicious gluten-free offerings from Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats, here's their contact information:

Address: Union Square W, New York, NY 10003, USA (specifically, at the Union Square Greenmarket)

Phone: (917) 703-8367

Operating Hours at Union Square Greenmarket:

• Friday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Saturday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For specific product availability or any updates, it is always recommended to check their official website or social media.

Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats is exceptionally well-suited for locals in the New York region, particularly for those prioritizing health, dietary restrictions, or simply seeking high-quality, conscientiously made baked goods. Its primary appeal lies in its unwavering commitment to being entirely gluten-free, providing a safe and delicious haven for individuals with celiac disease or sensitivities, a significant comfort in a city where such dedicated options are often hard to find. The fact that their products consistently deliver "uncompromised taste and texture" (even for items that are also sugar-free or vegan) means that New Yorkers don't have to sacrifice flavor for their dietary choices. The convenience of their location at the bustling Union Square Greenmarket, easily accessible via numerous subway lines, makes it a seamless addition to weekly routines for fresh produce and gourmet treats. For those who appreciate fair-trade, organic, and ethically sourced ingredients, Off the Wheat aligns perfectly with modern New York values. This bakery is not just an option; it's a vital and beloved resource that allows all New Yorkers to enjoy decadent, guilt-free treats, truly enriching the city's diverse culinary landscape.

Off the Wheat- Sweets and Eats

Union Square W, New York, NY 10003, USA