My recent trip to Philadelphia was no more than a 48 hour adventure and took place without my vegan homies. I wanted to explore this artsy city but was seriously craving some vegan eats. Hungry and not sure where to go, I turned to Yelp for some answers. Because I didn’t have much time and was walking, I chose a vegan and gluten-free bakery called Sweet Freedom Bakery located on South Street. This bakery is allergy-friendly and is Philly’s first and only vegan and gluten-free bakery. They also avoid the use of soy, corn and peanuts.
I will say, walking to Sweet Freedom was a little sketchy, on my way I came across a bike that was locked up but “APPARENTLY” the wheels had been stolen. Right after seeing the bike, I had my first run-in with “cat-callers” – yep, they’re everywhere, even in Philly! I’m still not sure how much to say I cost for the night! haha! 
Sweet Freedom was totally worth the walk! They have a wide selection of baked goods including, cupcakes, cakes, cookies, loaves, muffins and other treats, including donuts. I chose the donuts because they were made without xanthan gum. Actually, I got two donuts because I rarely get the chance to eat these lovely little cake rings and couldn’t resist. I got a chocolate glazed coconut and a plain glazed coconut donut. I have to say the chocolate was the best because the glaze tasted like frosting. The donut itself was more like cake than a fried donut, but delicious. If you’re craving something sweet, you can’t go wrong with the donuts at Sweet Freedom – a cross between a donut and cake.
My take: Sweet Freedom was quaint with a great selection of baked goods. Eye candy for those of us with severe allergies! The two people working were knowledgable and helpful, especially with questions regarding ingredients.
The bakery is committed to providing the highest quality ingredients without the use of nasty additives and has been open for four years. It’s Philly’s one and only completely vegan and gluten-free bakery, now boasting three locations. Just a note: Another option for a party or intense sweet cravings is to utilize their delivery service – a minimum of a dozen donuts is necessary for delivery.
I got my two donuts to go, a coconut water to wash it down and was back to my Philly food adventure.
Info about Xanthan Gum: especially helpful for those of us suffering from chronic allergies, Crohn’s Disease or Celiac.