BUENA BELLA SWEETS

About

As long as I can remember, baking sweet treats has been something of an obsession with me. I began my foray into baking as a cherubic, nine-year-old girl growing up in the 70s in a small community in California. “God’s country” is what the locals like to say about Hollister, California. This is where I began my journey as a baker. I recall very distinctly what exactly set me off on my sweet obsession. Along the main street in Hollister was one of the best bakeries in town, very well known for its selection of cookies, pastries, and bread. It was my first encounter with the delectable sight of a cream puff that introduced me to the taste of this fantastical dessert.

Upon entering the bakery, and viewing the many treats to choose from I spotted this particular delight. The foundation of the perfect cream puff is a light, airy pate a choux filled with mounds of luscious whipping cream and sprinkled with powdered sugar. I then purchased my first cream puff, and my world was never the same. I immediately was hooked and soon was on my way to replicating this delicacy without any knowledge of baking whatsoever. If you have ever attempted to make a cream puff, then you will know the key to a perfect cream puff is in perfecting the airy pate a choux. I was able to create my first baking masterpiece which not only came out scrumptious, but this is the moment I realized I had an indelible skill.

Baking has been a passion of mine since then and I haven’t looked back since. Many of my cookies, cakes, sweet bread, and candies have been a favorite of many family gatherings. So much so, that there is a following of sorts with my cookies, in particular my almond cookies. I feel grateful to have the ability to make my family and friends happy with the smells and taste of home. I guess it’s knowing that my baking can bring everyone together to enjoy so many special memories for years to come. It’s been my way of showing love and affection for those close to me and preparing something with my hands to gift those who enjoy a homemade sweet treat.