nice to meet you

Everybody has a love language. Making others feel valued, cared for, and at home is mine. And, apparently, I speak fluent food, because I’m rarely more in my element than when I’m planning and cooking for a big party or baking special treats to share with those I love.

Hi, I’m Grandpa Aaron and I live in Portland, Oregon with my husband, Hugh (a.k.a. Grandfather). Like each of the bakes you’ll find here, our lives are filled with (and often inspired by) dear friends, our very large extended family, and our four grandchildren. This blog is about sharing a deep piece of my heart and welcoming the rest of you into the little moments that bring total joy, meaning and unbridled pleasure to my world.

Come on in, make yourself comfortable, and enjoy!

More about me

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grandpa’s recent bakes

Browse the freshest bakes in the gallery below or use the menu above to peruse by category.

aaron 12/19/24 aaron 12/19/24

Christmastime Chocolate Torte

Rich chocolate flourless cake topped with a “holiday bark” of white chocolate ganache, pistachios and dried cranberries.

aaron 11/11/24 aaron 11/11/24

Chocolate-Lover’s Cake + Buttercream Frosting

A decadently fluffy, moist, flavor-packed, oh-my-GOD cake recipe with pantry staple ingredients and easy-breezy instructions — one bowl, friends!

aaron 9/5/24 aaron 9/5/24

Vegan Chocolate Birthday Cake + Fudge Frosting (with potato chips)

A cake so moist, flavor-packed and fluffy, and a frosting so richly fudgy, your most die-hard dairy fans will never believe it's vegan!

aaron 8/12/24 aaron 8/12/24

Vegan Goodbar Brownies

Fudgy peanut-studded brownies topped with a luscious milk-chocolate & peanut butter ganache (and more peanuts) so tasty, even your non-vegans will love ‘em!