SBS: Mimi's Bakehouse

Do you know the story behind Mimi’s Bakehouse in Crystal River? It’s actually pretty special.

It’s owned by pastry chef Mindy Gray, and she might be one of the most talented, community-focused bakers I know. Her pride for Citrus County and her love for the community is infectious.

Mimi's Bakehouse began like so many great small businesses do - as a dream in a home kitchen. Mindy baked with her mother as a little girl, putting together Christmas cookie trays for all the neighbors, and she’s carried that same heart for making people happy with dessert into everything she does today.

She built momentum through word-of-mouth, local events, and that “treat-people-well” philosophy that keeps customers coming back. In just seven months, Mimi's grew from a home-based cottage bakery into a licensed retail food establishment.

The sweetest part? The name “Mimi’s” comes from her two grandchildren! They are her favorite people in the whole world and the inspiration behind her business. Every cake, brownie, and cheesecake is made with the kind of love only a “Mimi” has for her grandbabies… and you can taste that in every bite.

Today, Mimi’s Bakehouse has the cutest storefront in Crystal River and is known for classic treats with a modern twist like:
🍪 Biscoff brownies
🍰 New York–style cheesecake
🎂 Lambeth-style cakes

What really makes Mimi’s unique are their inclusive options. They bake to order and offer:
✅ Keto
✅ Gluten-free
✅ Sugar-free
✅ Dye-free
✅ Vegan-friendly options

Mindy sources organic ingredients and uses pure monk fruit sugar, that means there is no erythritol or allulose found here. Whether it’s a dietary restriction or a personal choice, she works her magic so everyone can enjoy dessert at the table.
Mimi’s story is also deeply tied to our local markets. She started at Market at the Depot in Inverness. That’s where she met her very first customers. Those early supporters kept coming back, spreading the word, and quite literally helped make her brick-and-mortar bakery possible. She still sets up there often and loves the chance to connect with people face-to-face.

Her heart for community goes even further. Mindy recently partnered with Employ-U, a nonprofit employment service that supports people with disabilities and other underserved populations in Citrus County and across Florida through job training, placement, and advocacy. She recently hired a young lady from the program and is so excited to bring her talents into the bakery.

Mindy will tell you one of her favorite things about Citrus County is the level of friendliness and kindness you just don’t find everywhere else. She is incredibly proud to serve this community and says she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
I’ve personally tried Mimi's Bakehouse and still can’t pick a favorite. Recently I had the eggnog cheesecake, it was perfect! My husband went for the coconut pistachio chocolate torte that was completely sugar free, paleo, vegan, and gluten free… and still delicious. This isn’t “good for being gluten free.” It’s just GOOD.

What do I love most about Mimi’s? It’s not just the gorgeous desserts. It is a woman-owned, family-rooted bakery that truly believes everyone belongs. No matter your allergies or dietary needs, there’s always something here made with you in mind.

How to support this amazing small business:
• Follow “Mimi’s Bakehouse” on Facebook for menus & pop-up announcements
• Pre-order early for holidays and special events
• Share this with a friend who loves small-batch, from-scratch treats

📍 Mimi's Bakehouse
430 NE 3rd Street
Crystal River, FL 34429
(352) 794-3024

If you're in Crystal River, be sure to stop by and enjoy some delicious sweets.
Tell them Melynda sent you!

Melynda Collette
Century 21 J.W. Morton Real Estate
(352) 464-5652