Baking may seem like a hobby and fun activity to others. But to one, it’s seen as a journey that began with her family that continued to build bonds with her friends. Inspired by her stepdad, who introduced her to the world of sweets, Kimberly Truong discovered a passion that not only fills her kitchen with delicious treats but also strengthens her friendships.
“My mom didn’t like baking that much, but my stepdad actually used to bake cakes and we started baking during the winter break. He taught me how to bake goods from scratch and it was really fun for me,” Truong said. Those winter days spent experimenting with flour and sugar became a cherished memory that laid the foundation for a lifelong love of baking.
Today, Truong’s favorite treats to create are brownies and cupcakes, both of which are perfect for sharing with others. “I feel like baking has strengthen[ed] friendships for me because when I bake for them I get to learn about their likes and dislikes,” Truong said. Each baking session becomes an opportunity to connect with her friends, whether through flavor preferences or kitchen antics. “ It’s also really fun to bake with them in the kitchen and creates a lot of fun memories,” Kimberly said, as she recalls the laughter and giggles that filled her kitchen.
Her inspiration comes from a mix of sources including social media platforms like Tiktok, Instagram, as well as popular baking shows. This diverse approach keeps her baking fresh and exciting, ensuring that her friends are always eager for her next creation.
While she does not have a specific favorite compliment about her baking, one sentiment that resonates deeply with her, is when people ask for her recipes or express a desire for more of her treats. “[I] think the best compliment I could get is just people eating and enjoying my sweet treats,” Truong said. It’s one of those moments when her friends indulge in her brownies or cupcakes that she feels the true joy of her craft.
Baking, for Truong, is more than just mixing ingredients; it’s about the connection, creativity, and creating lasting memories. As she continues to experiment and share her sweet creations with the world, one thing is clear: the next batch she bakes is a testament to the friendships that she has nurtured along the way.