About Gem City Bakehouse

Hi, I’m Alli Hicks, the owner and baker behind Gem City Bakehouse!

Baking has been a part of my life since I was young and while the dream of owning a bakery has changed shape over the years, my love for creating delicious treats never has.

It all started back in 2009 when I was a freshman at Indiana Wesleyan University. My eldest sister introduced me to cake balls, and I was immediately hooked. I brought them to every party, get-together, and holiday, and soon enough, friends and family started expecting cake balls every time I showed up. Eventually, they even offered to pay me for them!

For a long time, I hesitated to sell baked goods—until I finally thought, “Why not?”

With incredible support from my husband, friends, and family, Gem City Bakehouse was born in 2015.

I officially took the leap and went full-time with the bakery in March 2020.

Handmade Dayton

In 2023, I started Handmade Dayton, a local initiative to support small businesses, organize vendor events, and connect with other makers and business owners in the community. It’s been an incredible way to bring local talent together and showcase the amazing small businesses in our area!

Where to Find Us

You can now find me at markets year-round, sharing a variety of comforting baked goods—like bars, brownies, sweetbreads, and more! In 2025, my treats will be available exclusively at in-person markets and events, so be sure to check out where I’ll be next.

Thank you for supporting my small business and my dream—one sweet treat at a time!