Naomi the baker

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My  name is Naomi Lyons Friedman, and I’m the proud owner of Sophie's  Gluten-Free Bake Shop. It is named after my mother, who was the inspiration and source for many of my recipes. She taught me the importance of healthy eating and searching out the best and freshest  quality ingredients.

When I was diagnosed as gluten- and  dairy-intolerant in 2011, I had to change the way I baked. I found a high-quality gluten-free flour as well as a number of dairy alternatives, and continued to bake my favorite recipes. Many friends who tried my cakes and loaves told me they could not tell the difference between my baking and regular gluten/dairy baking. Best of all, they  said they greatly preferred mine! My baking became so popular that in  2017 I opened Sophie’s Gluten-Free Bake Shop. My goal is to provide  baked goods for people concerned with maintaining a healthy diet and an  active lifestyle. As a 5-day-a-week lap swimmer, I understand how important diet is for a healthy life. While carefully monitoring my sugar intake, I have learned the value of baking which puts flavor ahead of sugar content.

Healthy  baking includes choosing recipes with limited use of sugar and  high-quality spices instead of excess fat and sugar. It also includes using fresh organic fruits and vegetables instead of canned or processed  ones. The ingredients and processes I use result in baked goods with memorable taste, excellent texture, and pleasing moisture.