The dessert and baked goods industry has long been a beloved part of daily life, offering moments of comfort, indulgence, and joy. Over the past decade, however, the marketplace has been shifting as consumers increasingly seek out handmade, preservative-free, and allergen-conscious products that remind them of home. More people are drawn to baked goods that are crafted with care, using local ingredients, and infused with authenticity rather than mass production. This growing demand has opened doors for passionate bakers who put heart and intention into everything they create.
One such story is that of Eat My Shortbread, a Canadian bakery brand built on values of compassion, quality, and community connection. Founded by Trisha Peech, the brand began with a treasured family recipe and a vision to reimagine what handmade shortbread could mean for today’s consumers. From humble beginnings at home to establishing a loyal following, Eat My Shortbread has become a name synonymous with love-filled treats that bring people together.
From a Family Recipe to a Growing Canadian Bake Shop
Trisha Peech’s journey began with a recognition of a gap in the dessert market. While shelves were filled with mass-produced baked goods containing palm oils, preservatives, and allergens, she realized there was little space for natural, handmade products. With her cherished recipe in hand, she started baking from her home in Markham, Ontario, before opening her first bake shop in Oshawa. By 2014, Eat My Shortbread was fully established as a brand dedicated to rustic, preservative-free baked goods that felt like home.
The product range soon grew beyond shortbread into inventive creations such as butter tarts with shortbread crusts, vintage-style cookies, scones, and banana bread. Each recipe reflected the warmth of traditional baking, inspired by the flavors many Canadians remember from their mothers’ and grandmothers’ kitchens. What set Eat My Shortbread apart was not only its quality but also its intentionality. Everything was crafted to be allergen-conscious, particularly tree nut and peanut-free, which offered peace of mind and inclusivity for customers.
Baking with Compassion, Intention, and Connection
At the heart of Eat My Shortbread lies a philosophy shaped by Trisha’s background in social work. Her work with families and individuals taught her that relationships are among the most valuable aspects of life. That ethos translates directly into her baking and her business. Each cookie or tart is more than just a dessert, it is an opportunity for connection and kindness. Trisha often reflects on her customers’ experiences, imagining the joy of their first bite and how it will bring comfort or create a memory.
This mindset extends into how she interacts with her community and customers. From remembering personal details about loyal patrons to supporting local causes such as Girls Inc. picnics, raffles, and charity events, Eat My Shortbread prioritizes relationships over transactions. In Trisha’s eyes, her brand is not simply about selling cookies, it is about offering moments of joy, familiarity, and human connection. That is what gives her business its distinct character and sets it apart in a competitive marketplace.
Overcoming Challenges and Building a Future in Prince Edward County
Like many entrepreneurs, Trisha faced significant hurdles in building her business. From financing and staffing to sourcing the right space, every challenge tested her determination. Staying true to her commitment to high-quality Canadian ingredients meant higher costs and sometimes slower growth, yet she never compromised on her standards. The pandemic further strained operations, but loyal customers, a strong website, and active social media helped keep the bakery afloat during difficult times.
In a recent pivotal move, Trisha relocated the business from Durham Region to Picton in Prince Edward County. The decision has already proven to be transformative. Within a few months, Eat My Shortbread has gained a presence at local farmers markets and secured placement in up to ten retailers across the county. Looking ahead, Trisha envisions a future rooted in simplicity and sustainability. Instead of chasing expansion into multiple locations, she sees herself continuing to anchor her business in Prince Edward County, growing steadily, employing staff, and serving her community with the same care and intention that started it all.
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