Popular Huntsville bakery closes after barely one year of business
The Bakingtist, a Huntsville brick-and-mortar bakery and café dedicated to the education and practice of baking science, will conclude its retail operations on Sunday, January 7, 2024. The closure was announced by owner Heidi Kizer via Instagram on December 24, 2023, with the bakery operating under its regular schedule until closing day.
Part of the closing statement made by Bakingtist read: ‘It is with a very heavy heart that I have decided to close the bakery and cafe. Despite so, so much effort, the business just isn’t viable in its current form. This is bittersweet, as although the bakery and cafe is closing, I am hopeful about what the School of Baking will bring. I feel comfort in knowing that I will continue to engage with all of you through classes.’
Prior to establishing a physical location, The Bakingtist operated as a home-based bakery, selling bread and baked goods directly from an apartment. To facilitate the transition to a storefront, a Kickstarter campaign launched in October 2022 successfully raised $35,000. The Bakingtist officially opened its doors in December 2022, introducing a diverse menu encompassing sandwiches, innovative breads, and exquisite pastries.
Moving forward, in order to fulfill its lease obligation, The Bakingtist will pivot its focus from direct sales to educational pursuits. This evolution will see the establishment rebranded as The Bakingtist School of Baking, offering baking classes to continue its mission of fostering community engagement and scientific literacy within the culinary field.
