Spreading Joy & Happiness One Cheesecake at a Time!
This Black History Month, Dierbergs proudly celebrates the vibrant culture and heritage of the Black community. Together with our valued partner, Patty’s Cheesecake, a beloved local bakery featured at all Dierbergs locations, we delve into Patty's inspiring narrative, her rich background, and the profound significance of food through her story. Join us in embracing the essence of community spirit not just this month but every month.
Q&A with Patty
Are there any significant influences or role models in your life who inspired your passion for baking?
My grandmother.
What memories do you have of baking from your childhood or early experiences in the kitchen?
I remember my Dad having me on a step stool teaching me to cook. Holiday were big events in our family; I remember helping to prepare many of the dishes/foods as a kid and as a young adult.
Tell us about your baking journey - how did you get started to what made you pursue it professionally?
My Dad was a chef at the Chase Park Plaza, he inspired and taught me how to cook. My grandmother was the baker and she also inspired me to bake. I started cooking when I was around 9 years old, I learned most things from my Dad but also loved gleaning from other chefs. Cooking and baking was/is therapeutic for me. When my grandmother decided not to make here cheesecake (or any of her desserts); I said that we still needed them in our family. So, she gave me her recipe and mixer and the rest is history as they say.
How do you stay connected and engaged with the St. Louis community and why is that important to you?
I keep myself informed about the local business scene and participate/attend local sponsored events. In addition, I support local business as a consumer and a business. It is important to support local and stay connected because it supports our community at large, promotes and builds healthy communities.
What are your most popular or signature items/flavors? And what is your favorite item/flavor?
I get asked this question all the time; it is a difficult one. We change flavors monthly at the bakery and are always debuting new flavors. For this question this time, I will say Banana Pudding is a popular flavor and Blueberry Lemonade is one of my favorites.
Do you have any advice for aspiring bakers who are just starting out?
Just start; sometimes that's the biggest battle....starting.
Get to know Pat, her story, and her love for baking!
Celebrating Black History Month
Q&A with Patty
Are there any significant influences or role models in your life who inspired your passion for baking?
My grandmother.
What memories do you have of baking from your childhood or early experiences in the kitchen?
I remember my Dad having me on a step stool teaching me to cook. Holiday were big events in our family; I remember helping to prepare many of the dishes/foods as a kid and as a young adult.
Tell us about your baking journey - how did you get started to what made you pursue it professionally?
My Dad was a chef at the Chase Park Plaza, he inspired and taught me how to cook. My grandmother was the baker and she also inspired me to bake. I started cooking when I was around 9 years old, I learned most things from my Dad but also loved gleaning from other chefs. Cooking and baking was/is therapeutic for me. When my grandmother decided not to make here cheesecake (or any of her desserts); I said that we still needed them in our family. So, she gave me her recipe and mixer and the rest is history as they say.
How do you stay connected and engaged with the St. Louis community and why is that important to you?
I keep myself informed about the local business scene and participate/attend local sponsored events. In addition, I support local business as a consumer and a business. It is important to support local and stay connected because it supports our community at large, promotes and builds healthy communities.
What are your most popular or signature items/flavors? And what is your favorite item/flavor?
I get asked this question all the time; it is a difficult one. We change flavors monthly at the bakery and are always debuting new flavors. For this question this time, I will say Banana Pudding is a popular flavor and Blueberry Lemonade is one of my favorites.
Do you have any advice for aspiring bakers who are just starting out?
Just start; sometimes that's the biggest battle....starting.