pastries – Jellybeans in the City

Snackable baked goodies from Breadtalk, SM East Ortigas

To be honest, my quarantine life has been made so much more bearable by the joys of snacking.

Munching on some sweet or savory pastries in the afternoon after office Zoom meetings or during tutoring sessions with my son help to tide me over until dinnertime, giving me that much-needed energy boost. When my kids and I get a case of the munchies late at night, we also reach for some breads that we pair with our favorite spreads.

Fortunately, there’s a Breadtalk branch in the mall near my home which lets me grab delicious and affordable baked goods whenever I go out for a supply run.

Here, some of my go-to breads and pastries are made fresh everyday. In keeping with safety protocols, it already accepts cashless payments via GCash.

My favorites among its offerings include:

Kick Kick (Php39). Soft pillowy bread split in the middle to give way to a creamy sweet custard.

Rocky Rocky Milk (Php45). Fluffy Danish pastry with milky cream.

Strawberry Rocky (Php45). Rocky Rocky Milk breads halved then split in the middle to hold some tangy and sweet strawberry jam.

Prosperity Polo (Php56). Similar to a Danish pastry, this is topped with a pineapple ring with a creamy sweet custard in the middle.

Earthquake Cheese Toast (Php159). A toasted airy loaf filled with cheese bits.

Almond Frenzy (Php41). A fluffy baked doughnut topped with sliced almonds.

Custard Bun (Php35). Soft milk bread with a rich custard filling in the center.

Baguette (Php62). A long thin and crusty loaf which is a perfect companion for the the Shrimp Gambas I sometimes make for dinner.

Wholemeal Toast (Php109). Fluffy bread which serves as a perfect foil for my son’s favorite tuna spread.

So if you’re looking for savory breads for your sandwiches or to complement your viands, or for sweet pastries for your snack or dessert, drop by a Breadtalk branch near you.

You can also have your orders delivered right to your doorstep via GrabFood.

For the latest updates from Breadtalk, visit its website or follow it on Facebook or Instagram.

This Breadtalk branch is located at Ground Floor, SM City East Ortigas, Ortigas Avenue Extension, Pasig City.

Other Breadtalk branches in the metro are located at:

Quezon City: Eastwood Mall, Robinsons Galleria, Gateway Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, Trinoma Mall, SM City North EDSA The Block, Ayala Malls Cloverleaf, SM City Novaliches, SM City Fairview
Marikina: SM City Marikina
Mandaluyong: SM Megamall, Shangri-la Plaza
San Juan: V Mall Greenhills Shopping Center
Taguig: Uptown Place Mall, Market! Market!, Bonifacio High Street, SM Aura Premiere
Makati: Powerplant Mall, Century City Mall, Ayala Malls Circuit, Glorietta, The Landmark, Ayala North Exchange, Assembly Grounds at The Rise
Manila: Robinsons Place Manila, SM City Manila, Lucky Chinatown Mall
Pasay: SM Mall of Asia
Las Pinas: SM Southmall
Muntinlupa: Alabang Town Center, Festival Mall

Check out my posts on other bakery establishments in the metro:

The Jelly List: Desserts for Delivery During Quarantine

How are your sweet cravings, foodies?

Sugar addicts like me are sure to be missing their usual dessert places with many restos and cafes closing shop during the enhanced community quarantine.

If your usual dessert haunts are currently inaccessible, you’ll be happy to know that desserts and baked goodies from these stores are available for delivery.

1. Cookies from Sugar Creations by Alex

“C is for cookie. That’s good enough for me.”

For all you Cookie Monsters out there, mommy Alex whips up crave-worthy cookies like Dark Chocolate, Dark Oatmeal, Classic Chocolate Chip and Smookies.

To order, call +63 988 5447945, or send a message via Instagram or Facebook.

2. Breads from Chloe Creations Bakeshop

Even if you’re working from home, you can still use a coffee break.

Have a few pieces of Ubechizdesal or a slice or two of Banana Loaf to go with your favorite cuppa.

To order, call + 63 915 3196411 or send a message via Instagram or Facebook.

3. Cakes from Carla Kusinera

C’mon… you know there’s always room for dessert! There’s nothing like a sweet treat to cap off a great meal.

So how about a slice of Carla Kusinera’s light and fluffy Creme Brulee Cake or decadent Chocolate Cake?

To order, call +63 917 5638785 or send a message via Instagram or Facebook.

4. Mocha Dalgona Avocado Gelato from What’s Your Flan?

With the summer heat intensifying, what we sometimes need is to cool down with a a frozen treat.

Indulge yourself with a tin of Mocha Dalgona Avocado Gelato (with real Dalgona candies) from What’s Your Flan?!

To order, call +63 916 4978876 or send a message via Instagram or Facebook.

5. Burnt Basque Cheesecake from Sweet Samthings

My birthday-in-quarantine was still a happy one with this lusciously milky and custardy Burnt Basque Cheesecake from Sweet Samthings.

To order, call +63 917 6183443 or send a message via Instagram or Facebook.

6. Apple Pie from Yellowbakerbug

Want a taste of home-style apple pie? I know I did last Mother’s Day!

That smell of cinnamon that wafted from the crumbly and sweetly spiced pastry from Yellowbakerbug got me and the fam salivating! Its crisp apple slices and buttery crumb topping make it a perfect dessert for my Mother’s Day meal.

To order, send a message via Instagram or Facebook.

Now you know who to call to sate your sweet cravings during quarantine!

Thanks to Harvard of AlwaysHungryPH for sharing the goodies from Chloe Creations Bakeshop, Karla Kusinera and What’s Your Flan?

Check out my other adventures compiled into Jelly Lists:

Baked Donuts from Bake My Day, Libis

After a bout of food shopping at the nearest All Home Supermarket (the one in Libis), I espied upon its pastry shop near its exit.

I immediately thought of my kiddos keeping themselves quarantined at home. I know them to be great donut fanatics so I decided to treat them to a box of half-dozen donuts from Bake My Day, which costs only Php300.

Bake My Day is one of the newer retail brands under the Villar Group of Companies, which serves pastries freshly baked everyday. Its presence in the All Home premises proved to be quite convenient for me as I didn’t have to drive off to a separate pastry shop for some pasalubongs for my kids.

Upon biting into my donut (of course I get to have a piece!), I noticed some differences versus the usual donut. My almond on white chocolate glazed donut does not have the slightly crispy exterior nor the chewy interior I was expecting. It has a fluffy mouthfeel, sort of like biting into a muffin.

I had a facepalm moment when my daughter #ExhibitA blurted out the reason for the differences in texture: “Ma! Kasi Bake My Day nga!“

So apparently, the differences in texture I’ve been noting result from the donuts being baked as opposed to fried.

Well, everyday I learn something new!

That said, the almond donut I had was suitably sweet, perfect as a dessert after dinner with the kids.

And since they wiped out the remaining five donuts before the day is through, I’d say they liked them too.

This Bake My Day branch is located at All Home Supermarket, Libis, Quezon City. For orders and inquiries, call +63 999 8611174.

Other branches are located at:

Vista Mall Taguig
Vista Mall Global South
Starmall Alabang
Evia Lifestyle Center

Naked Patisserie launches Naked Spreads, Party Trays, and Gift Sets in time for the Holidays

Naked Patisserie made its debut at the most important event for Christian Mark Jacobs – his very own wedding with celebrity fashion designer Francis Libiran. It was an opportune time to let their guests experience the recipes that his closest family and loved ones have enjoyed over the generations, evoking good memories and shared joys.

Fast forward to the present and Naked Patisserie has become one of the most sought-after cake suppliers for celebrity weddings, with its offerings of sweet and savory recipes using signature combined “naked ingredients.” The Chocolate Oreo Cheesecake Truffles, which Christian has been making since he was a teenager, has become a well-loved crowd favorite and a benchmark for great desserts.

Recognizing how much Christmas means to Filipinos, Naked Patisseries has chosen the holiday season to launch its newest offerings, representing the next step in its continuous evolution as a mainstay in the Philippine food scene.

The exciting holiday line-up was launched at Naked Patisserie’s thanksgiving event held at Marquis Events Place in BGC, whose elegant set-up and personalized service definitely heightened the guests’ experience as they discovered Naked Patisserie’s offers for the Holiday season.

The premier venue for grand experiences opens its Marquis Christmas Joy Regale festivities with a delightful Yuletide banquet created around Naked Patisserie’s “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” celebration. They’ll be offering affordable festive banquets; sweet and savory holiday gifts; party platter pleasures; and Yuletide outside catering packages are sure to bring joy in many celebrations.

Among the products launched are the Naked Spreads—the perfect addition for any gathering. Not only are the grazing tables Instagram-worthy with its signature rustic aesthetic, but it is peppered with Christian’s Southern roots recipes made with naked ingredients. One can choose the Build-Your-Own Naked Spread package, which allows the client to customize the spread based on budget and number of guests. Special add-ons (premium cheese, premium deli meats) and upgrades are also available, giving one the opportunity to curate a spread.

There are also the Celebrity Naked Spread packages designed for actual celebrity weddings and events. One can also opt for Luxe Celebrity Spreads, including the actual spreads used by celebrities Julia Barreto, Marian Rivera, Jinkee Pacquiao and Vern and Verniece Enciso.

For those who want a memorable Yuletide spread, Naked Patisserie’s Southern Roots Party Trays is sure to create new memories while bringing back a taste of home. It features the Breaded Italian Pork Chops with the Naked Foodie signature breading, seasoned to perfection with creamy Southern bacon gravy as a side; Italian Sausage with Bell Pepper & Onions, which are sauteed and served with grilled bell peppers and red onions on a petite bed of creamy mashed potatoes; the irresistible Sriracha Chicken is a crispy boneless skinless breast chicken tossed in the signature Sriracha Honey Sauce and topped with red pepper flakes and spring onions; and the Tuscan Chicken is a beautifully roasted chicken coated in premium olive oil, Italian herbs and spices, and finished with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and zest.

Even the sides are sure to make every foodie drool: The Baked Brie Mac n Cheese, which is a sinful 4-cheese dish comprised of an explosion of flavor of pepper jack, sharp cheddar, parmesan, and baked brie with a creamy, structured texture; the Frittata is a baked egg casserole filled with feta cheese, steamed spinach and vine ripened tomatoes and parmesan cheese; and Buttered Corn is a premium roasted corn with butter and signature spices. Just as memorable are the Sweet and Sour Green Beans and Roasted Broccoli.

To complement the savory dishes, Naked Patisserie also offers Made-to-Order cakes with unique flavor combinations to choose from: Strawberries & Cream (winner of Inquirer’s Best Desserts of 2019), Chocnut Cheesecake, Chocolate Chip Calamansi Cheesecake, Toasted Coconut Cream Dulce de Leche, Pick-me-Up Espresso Chocolate Cheesecake, Chocoholic Truffle Cake, Pucker Up Lemon Cheesecake, and its Signature Red Velvet Cake.

Other goodies that Naked Patisserie is offering this holiday season are the Luxe Wine Gift Sets, and Gingerbread Houses; Limited edition offerings are the White Chocolate Red Velvet Truffles, Christmas cake, and the Holiday Snacker.

“I’ve always loved the way food brings people together like nothing else can –– breaking down barriers and creating new friendships through telling stories and sharing in laughter. Southern Roots by Naked Patisserie Party Trays is the byproduct of my love for cooking, which I stems from my mother and grandmother, and is my way of inviting you into my kitchen to share in my family’s traditions and recipes, some of which span back to three generations. My promise to you is always: good food, naked Ingredients,” says Jacobs.

People love Naked Patisserie because it is more than just a bake shop – it’s a place where people know they are valued, and where they can have delicious and photo-worthy cakes and pastries. They return, too, because of the defining and memorable experience which they want to experience again and share with friends and family, especially this Christmas.

For your holiday celebrations, you may order online through their website www.nakedpatisserie.com or message them on Viber at 09454685141 and/or 09651396609. Stay up to date with their offerings and promos by following Naked Patisserie on social media at www.instagram.com/nakedpatisserie.

Event details provided in a recent press release.

A new dessert haven at Loraine’s Coffee and Pastry Shop, Santa Lucia

I’ve gotten used to traveling all over the metro to try out new places to dine in that I sometimes get surprised when an interesting resto pops up right in my neck of the woods.

During my recent (harrowingly traffic-jammed) drives going to work, a newly opened cafe just outside my subdivision caught my eye. From the outside, it seemed like a clean and quiet place to hang out in. I admit: it seemed as if during the time I was stuck in mind-numbing traffic, that little cafe called to me, promising peace, quiet and respite.

So when my friend Sasha of Sashimakes (do check out her handcrafted stuff!) invited me to meet up with her at Loraine’s Coffee and Pastry Shop, I jumped at the chance to check the place out while catching up with her.

Upon entering the cafe, I was amazed at the nature-themed decor. Dark wood chairs, tables and shelves frame the lovely potted plants scattered all over the cafe. The overall effect is one of serenity: here, you can grab a bite or sip on your favorite brew in peace, as you watch the urban madness outside the door.

Feeling a bit adventurous, we decided to split between ourselves the cafe’s Pinangat Pasta (Php180). The dish combined elements from two of Bicol’s classic dishes: Pinangat, basically laing, and Adobong Bicol, also known as “adobo sa asin.” I like the complex flavors of the dish – garlicky, savory and a bit spicy – as it is a welcome deviation from the usual pasta dishes that are usually included in the menu of other cafes.

And wouldn’t you know it, the dish has a rice meal version at Php150! I will be definitely trying that the next time I’m here.

We enjoyed our pasta dish with our handcrafted drinks: a Passion Fruit Smoothie (Php120 for 16oz | Php135 for 22oz), a zesty ice-blended drink made from fresh passionfruit, and a mug of off-menu, made-by-request Hot Chocolate.

We capped off our snack with a slice of Strawberry Roll (Php65) and an Almond Bar (Php45). I would have liked the roll better if it used a lighter chiffon cake, though.

By the way, I also took home Cookies ‘n Cream, Vanilla and Red Velvet flavors for my babies at home.

On my next visit, I’d like to try out the other desserts that incorporate pili nuts.

And if all the mention of pinangat and pili nuts got you wondering, the cafe’s owner, Sly Natividad, was raised in Legazpi, Albay and wanted to feature some of the flavors he grew up with in his cafe.

He even gave us some salted pili nuts and mazapan de pili!

So the next time you’re traversing the traffic-jammed Ortigas Avenue Extension, ask yourself if the place you’re going to is worth letting the opportunity for respite and relaxation with handcrafted drinks and savory dishes and desserts that feature regional flavors at Loraine’s Coffee and Pastry Shop pass you by.

Loraine’s Coffee and Pastry Shop is located at Ground Floor, Choice Market Ortigas, 58 Ortigas Ave, Pasig, 1600 Metro Manila. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 917 7157635.

Breakfast Takeout at 85C Bakery Cafe, Lynnwood

Yesterday, the second day of our family in the Evergreen State, my brother took us to his favorite pastry shop, 85C Bakery Cafe.

85C got its name from its belief that coffee holds its flavor best at a steady temperature of 85 degrees Celsius. Its name is a statement of the cafe’s commitment to serving handcrafted coffee of the highest quality.

Each 85C store has its own in-shop bakery with a wide variety of pastries baked fresh every hour.

These pastries were the reason for our visit yesterday afternoon: the plan was to buy some of the store’s freshly baked goods for our breakfast the next day. Our loot included:

Milk Toast (USD3.00). A loaf with a fresh and natural milk taste.

Taro Puff Pastry (USD2.50). This puff pastry is light, flaky, and layered with delicious taro filling inside.

Milk Pudding (USD2.00). A traditional Japanese style soft bread with vanilla custard inside.

Garlic Cheese (USD2.00). A soft textured bread topped with our signature garlic spread, mozzarella cheese, and sprinkled with fresh parsley.

Cheese Dog (USD2.20). Soft bread wrapped around a hot dog, with cheddar & mozzarella cheese. Baked with ketchup, light mayo, black pepper and dry parsley.

Marble Taro (USD3.00). A sweet bread made with mixed grains and filled with signature taro filling.

This morning, I had the Milk Pudding and Taro Puff Pastry for my meal while I was enjoying the crisp morning air.

While it would be optimal to consume the pastries as soon as bought but they still tasted great with my morning coffee this morning.

This 85C Bakery Cafe outlet is located at 18700A 33rd Avenue W Lynnwood, WA 98037. For inquiries, call (425) 6722885.

Another outlet may be found at 501 S Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98104.

For more details, visit www.85cbakerycafe.com.