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!
grandpa’s recent bakes
I’m an avid hobbyist of a home baker, not a trained chef or a pro. I’ve made any recipe I share here at least twice, usually after I think I’ve got the recipe just right…usually. They always pass the enthusiastic enjoyment test…always!
Browse the freshest bakes in the gallery below or use the menu above to peruse by category.
Christmastime Chocolate Torte
Rich chocolate flourless cake topped with a “holiday bark” of white chocolate ganache, pistachios and dried cranberries.
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!
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!
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!
Strawberry-Rose Sweetheart Cookies
The tang of tart-fresh strawberry and the delicate scent of rose combine in these festive cookies sure to make any sweetheart swoon!
Mexican Hot Cocoa Kisses
Two-bite chewy chocolate cookies with a sweet-spicy kick of cinnamon and just a hint of cayenne pepper.
Milk Chocolate + Hazelnut Flourless Cake
Creamy milk chocolate and deep hazelnut flavor give this classic a fresh new twist.
grandpa’s favorite ingredients + tools
A virtual storefront featuring the products and tools that have become my go-to ingredients, some of the best pans I’ve ever baked in, and the utensils and supplies that make the job easier (and, occasionally, prettier too). START SHOPPING NOW
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