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Loon Cookies Are Calling

by CARLY SIMPSON

Lake ann’s rachel beckwith, aka the bread lady, is known for her plump loaves packed with bright dill w eed, swirls of cinnamon, chunks of mozzarella and whatever winsome flavor she dreams up in the moment— spiced chai, apple pie, the bigfoot (bacon and steak seasoning!). But in April and early May, as loons return to Northern Michigan’s lakes and rivers, we’re especially excited about Beckwith’s lovely loon sugar cookies (available by special order only; 6-pack for $13.50).

An Anishinaabe oral tradition says that the loon teaches us to follow our dreams and wishes; something Beckwith takes inspiration from. The Benzie County baker, whose love for loons runs so deep she chose to make the bird her logo, started her business in 2019, building a following at area farmers markets before transforming a garage in the village of Lake Ann into a kitchen and small shop. Some days demanded 18- to 20-hour work days from the mom of three, but Beckwith kept at it. It’s a treat to support her delicious dream.

The Bread Lady

19773 Linwood Ave., Lake Ann facebook.com/thelakeannbreadlady