Baking on Faith: How Adeline's Bakery Was Built in the Backyard | Building Nebraska

In the tiny town of Burr, Nebraska, population 52, one woman’s faith and love of baking has turned two backyard sheds into a community destination. Amy Oswald, owner of Adeline’s Bakery, didn’t follow a traditional path to entrepreneurship. “I’ve been baking since I was probably 16,” she said. “But, you know, life happens, and you gotta wait. I always said you have to wait until God tells you, you can do things.” After reading about Nebraska’s cottage food law, Amy jumped “off the diving board” and transformed a dream into reality—without ever stepping into culinary school. What started as a seasonal passion project soon became her full-time job, built with help from her husband, Joe. “Technically, I haven’t taken a paycheck in two and a half years. This is why we keep my husband around,” she joked. The bakery sits in Amy’s backyard in two prefabricated sheds. Inside, the shop feels like “an old general store,” complete with homemade jams, jellies, and fresh-baked goods. “I’ve got six grandkids, so I always want it to feel like you’re getting a hug when you walk in,” she said. Amy’s heart for hospitality caught the attention of the Nebraska Passport Program. In 2023, Adeline’s was named the favorite stop of all 70 locations. “We had over 2,400 people come through the store. I was absolutely blown away,” she said. Despite the popularity, Amy is not looking to expand. “People love pulling in here. We’ve got flowers, cats, picnic tables—and always free coffee.” Her advice to others with unconventional dreams? “Do what makes you happy, because life is just too short. I’m living proof—you don’t have to go to college to do something you absolutely love.” And as for her favorite baked good? “That’s like picking a favorite child… but if I mess up a cookie, I better eat it.” Building Nebraska is powered by the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. #smallbusiness #bakery #baking #business #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #podcast #nebraska #buildingnebraska