Originally Written for Authentically Alexa Blog and published in 2019. Updated 2025.

Back in August, I visited friends in their new North Carolina home, marking the first time in months we’d seen each other. One evening, as we drove to Raleigh for a night out, a billboard caught my eye: “Gluten-Free Pastry Shop.” I couldn’t believe it! My friend noticed it too, and a few miles later, another sign confirmed it. Though we didn’t stop that night, I made it my mission to visit JP’s Pastry before I left.

Environment

I envisioned a cozy café with pastries artfully displayed, but JP’s Pastry’s storefront had a different vibe. As a primary focus is wholesale, the space featured freezers stocked with pre-cooked and frozen goodies.

After some indecisiveness—a common occurrence when there are so many great gluten-free options!—I selected three items: a red velvet cupcake, a sticky bun, and a brookie (brownie + cookie). With limited luggage space, I had to resist buying more.

What I Tried

Red Velvet Cupcake: My first treat was the red velvet cupcake. While the icing was rich and flavorful, the cake itself fell slightly short in taste. That said, it was still enjoyable, though I felt that I’d had better.

Brookie: This brownie-cookie hybrid stole the show! The brownie was decadently rich, perfectly complemented by the lighter, less intense cookie layer. It was a delightful balance, and I savored every bite during my travels.

Sticky Bun: Hoping for a cinnamon-roll vibe, I was slightly disappointed. While the sticky bun wasn’t what I expected, it was still delicious, with a tender texture and lovely flavor. I’ll admit—I’m still on the hunt for a gluten-free orange roll to rival the ones I used to love.

What I Loved

• Accessibility: You don’t have to visit North Carolina to enjoy JP’s Pastry! Their products are available in big-name grocery chains like Whole Foods and local shops around North Carolina. I’ve even seen them in my new home of Asheville! They also offer shipping for many of their items, bringing their gluten-free delights straight to your doorstep.
• Value for Money: Gluten-free treats can be pricey, but JP’s Pastry offers generous portions that feel worth the cost!
• Quality: These pastries impressed me with their structure. Gluten-free baked goods often crumble, but JP’s treats stayed intact, making them perfect for mess-free snacking.
• The Story: While exploring their website, I discovered the inspiring story behind JP’s Pastry. The owner’s passion for crafting exceptional gluten-free and vegan baked goods is evident in every bite.

Final Thoughts

JP’s Pastry exceeded my expectations with their creative, high-quality gluten-free options. Whether you’re in North Carolina, spotting their products at your local grocery store, or ordering them to be shipped directly to your doorstep, I highly recommend giving them a try. With their dedication to crafting delicious gluten-free treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed in this blog are based on my personal experiences with restaurants offering gluten-free options. While I aim to provide accurate and helpful information, I cannot guarantee that the gluten-free options at these establishments will meet everyone’s needs or expectations. Cross-contact and ingredient changes are always a possibility.  

Please exercise your own judgment and diligence when dining out, particularly if you have Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity. I am not liable for any adverse effects that may occur from consuming food at any of the restaurants mentioned in this blog. Always confirm with the restaurant staff to ensure your meal meets your specific dietary requirements.  

Your safety is your responsibility—eat smart and stay gluten-free!