Welcome to Quarantine Cookie, where my love for sweets, local flavors, and coffee all come together in a delightful mix. My name is Elee, and I'm thrilled to share the story behind my passion for baking, my journey from the East Coast to the Midwest, and the birth of Quarantine Cookie amidst the pandemic.
I must confess, I have an undeniable sweet tooth, and my greatest weakness is a perfectly brewed latte. There's something magical about indulging in the delightful combination of a good latte and a gourmet cookie. Beyond that, I'm a true sucker for anything made locally. There's an authentic charm and a sense of community in supporting local businesses, and that philosophy has become the core of Quarantine Cookie.
My passion for baking and pastry arts blossomed when I was a child baking with my Mother. During high school I realized I could bake for a career when I first heard of culinary school. I quickly applied my junior year & I got accepted! Originally hailing from Kansas, I ventured to the East Coast for college, attending The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. There, I honed my skills and earned my associates degree in Baking and Pastry Arts. My passion for food and business led me to pursue a bachelor's degree in Food Business Management, , a perfect complement to my culinary aspirations.
After graduating, I embarked on an exciting culinary adventure in New York City, where I worked at esteemed establishments like The NoMad Hotel and Verōnika by STARR restaurant group. However, life had unexpected plans in store. Life took an unexpected turn when the pandemic hit, causing me to lose my job in NYC.
The pandemic gave birth to an idea that would become my lifeline and passion project – Quarantine Cookie. In the tiny confines of my NYC apartment, armed with nothing but a mini oven (which sometimes felt like an easy bake oven), I began crafting delicious cookies. These delightful treats were made with love, bringing comfort and joy to those who tasted them.
Determined to persevere, my partner Abel and I made the brave decision to leave the city and return to my home state of Kansas. Our little family, including our feline companion Jasmine, embarked on a road trip to the Midwest. It was a bittersweet journey, but it brought us closer together.
Back in Kansas City, we embraced the joys of being with family and savored every moment of reconnection. Amidst the upheaval, love found its way, and Abel and I got engaged, a beautiful symbol of new beginnings. During this time, we also indulged in our shared love for coffee, discovering the diverse coffee scene in Kansas City.
Quarantine Cookie started as a small batch bakery, and today it is all about spreading sweetness to the local community in Kansas City and beyond. We take pride in providing gourmet baked goods, carefully curated to cater to diverse tastes. From delectable classics to innovative creations, our cookies have won the hearts of many.
As the owner and creator of Quarantine Cookie, I'm humbled by the journey that led me back to my roots in Kansas. From my culinary education on the East coast to the challenges of navigating a pandemic, every experience has shaped the vision and ethos of Quarantine Cookie. With an unyielding commitment to quality and an insatiable passion for baking, I look forward to sharing my sweet creations with you, whether you're a local in Kansas City or a cookie fan from anywhere across the United States. Thank you for joining me on this delightful adventure!