As sleigh bells start to ring, we are listening and ready to bring you all the holiday cheer and happenings to keep you in the know about specials and events in and around Denver this holiday season. To kick things off, we thought we would bring you a Meet the Chef: Artisan Baker edition, especially for all of you who are parents, that will keep you off the naughty list or at least sweeten the persuasive argument you make if you know that you did some things this year that locked in your spot on the naughty list. According to History, leaving treats for Santa and his reindeer began with Norse mythology and evolved during the Great Depression as a sign of gratitude. If you are more of a consumer of cookies than the maker, you will want to read this interview with artisan baker Sabrina B. LaCombe, owner of TwinkleTreats.co., which offers custom sugar cookies, authentic French macarons, custom cupcakes and cakes.
Not only do farmers’ markets make for a great summer outing, but they are also a great way to get introduced to some of Denver’s artisan bakers. That is how we were introduced to Sabrina, who is the featured baker of this holiday edition of Meet the Chef: Artisan Baker Edition.
Sabrina’s passion for baking started when she was 12 years old. Sabrina spent years perfecting her baking skills. After moving from France to Denver, Sabrina used her downtime during the adjustment phase as an opportunity to teach herself new techniques alongside baking recipes. All of that time resulted in TwinkleTreats.co in March of 2022.
With Christmas soon approaching, we thought we would reach out to Sabrina to find out more about her journey toward entrepreneurship as an artisan baker as well as learn more the sweet treats she offers. Especially those that will make Santa and his elves very happy.
303 Magazine: Before we get into the Christmas cookies, we want to mention the Casa Bonita sugar cookie on your Instagram that caught our eye. The detail is on point. What inspired you to make it?
Sabrina B. LaCombe: In 2019, I visited my now husband and before my last day here with him, he took me to Casa Bonita. I instantly loved it for the feeling of childlike wonder and fun that I felt. So naturally, when they re-opened, I made a cookie replica of the newly painted facade!
303: That is awesome. Do you normally create sugar cookies like this for customers or is it something you do for fun and to challenge yourself creatively?
SLC: They are more passion projects. I have not had the opportunity to do more, but it is definitely on the top of my resolution list for next year.
303: Well we look forward to seeing what you create in 2025.
The artistry within the detail of your cookies is present, and having had the opportunity to taste some of your baked goods, so is the yumminess. Would you say that custom-ordered cookies are your top request or do your customers have another favorite?
SLC: Yes, custom cookies are my top request, followed by French Macarons! I started offering them in the Spring of 2023 and I love making matching cookies and macarons for special occasions! My favorite set from last month was Taylor Swift-themed.
303: Since Christmas is this month, we know one person who will be eating and taking home a lot of cookies to share. Have you had many requests from those wanting to order custom cookies for Santa?
SLC: Yes! I feel so fortunate when families ask me to make cookies from or for Santa! I also taught a few Christmas-themed cookie decorating classes and gave the kids some certificates straight from the North Pole’s bakery. The holidays are so special and it’s always so fun to make custom cookies for kiddos!
303: Sabrina, thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions and share a little about TwinkleTreats.co with our readers. We know you are busy, especially during this time of year so we are extremely grateful.
Visit TwinkleTreats.co to learn more about placing an order with Sabrina, including availability for special orders. You can also follow her on Instagram @twinkletreats.co.
All photos courtesy of TwinkleTreats.co via website and Instagram.
