Mickey and Her Creative Cupcakes
At the recent Compassion Bash, I was charmed by delicious pumpkin spiced cupcakes with cinnamon “buttercream” and candied maple pecans. The vegan dessert was a creation of Mickey’s Bakery, which started in Berkeley, CA in 2002, although Mickey Walker had been baking vegan items since attending The Natural Gourmet Institute and working as a chef in several vegan restaurants. Eventually one of her cakes was featured in the VegNews wedding issue.
Mickey’s Bakery makes mostly special occasion cakes (for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.).
“Really any vegan baked goods that someone might want I can make — cookies, cinnamon rolls, pies, fruit tarts, muffins, truffles — sky is the limit!” said Walker.
With a higher demand for gluten-free items and also no dairy, soy or nuts, Walker is happy to experiment. She has made gluten-free cakes, cookies, tarts, cupcakes, and pies with success. She often uses organic, quality ingredients and fruits are usually chosen seasonally from a farmer’s market.
After only two years in San Diego, business has mainly been word of mouth. In the next few months the hope is to have a website up, and to see her vegan dessert and food in local cafés and health food stores. For now, Walker only does custom orders for private events — email mickeysbakery@gmail.com or call 619-770-7141.
This year Walker also started a personal chef business called Flourish.
Sample meals: Coconut/Macadamia Nut Crusted Tempeh/Seitan with Rice and Sweet Mango-Coconut Curry Vegetables, and Cilantro Peanut Chutney, and Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Roasted Carrots, Caramelized Onions, to name a few.
“It’s funny, but none of my clients so far have actually been vegan! Most people are simply trying to eat healthier and cut the junk out! I focus on seasonal, local and organic, on top of being strictly vegan,” said Walker.
She charges $25 hourly, including shopping, menu planning, cooking, and clean-up. The initial consultation is free. Beyond 20 miles, fees may apply for time/gas.
“Everything was amazingly delicious! We’re amazed at your talent,” said an enthusiastic customer.
For more info, call 619-770-7141 or write flourishchef@gmail.com
