BadAsh Bakes: From Private Chef to Viral Sensation on Social Media

Bringing the Flavor to Pasadena

There’s a sweet storm brewing in Pasadena, and it’s drawing crowds from near and far. BadAsh Bakes Bakery and Cafe, the brainchild of Ashley Cunningham, has embarked on an impressive journey from social media darling to real-world triumph. Nestled on the vibrant Colorado Boulevard, this bakery isn’t just serving pastries; it’s dishing out happiness one cookie at a time.

Why has this bakery garnered such attention? Ensuring that every bite captures the imagination, Cunningham has cleverly leveraged platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Through the delicious lens of her baking journey, she’s amassed tens of thousands of followers, each clamoring to witness the culinary magic unfold first-hand.

From Virtual to Reality

Ashley Cunningham commenced her culinary voyage as a private chef for NBA players, where her prowess in the kitchen was first put to the test. She shared her delightful repertoire on social media, revealing her passion for baking that evolved from a hobby into a full-fledged business. “It was a hobby,” Cunningham reflects, recalling her modest beginnings and the serendipitous journey to entrepreneurship.

A Taste to Remember

While some patrons were initially hooked by the online allure, it’s the actual flavors that seal the deal. Joanna Cabrera, a devoted foodie from South L.A., was among those whose curiosity compelled a trek to taste the viral goodies. “I got the brownie, coffee cakes, cinnamon rolls, and a bunch of cookies, and of course, a coffee,” Cabrera reveals, her smile a testament to the bakery’s success.

Baking Nostalgia

For many, BadAsh Bakes isn’t just about tasting the pastries. It’s a trip down memory lane. “It reminds me of the LAUSD coffee cake,” Cabrera notes, a nostalgic delight that elevates the experience. And for those with a Southern heart, like Keisha Johnson from North Hollywood, the desserts evoke cherished memories. “I’m very critical of banana pudding, but she nailed it,” Johnson quipped with a grin.

From Humble Beginnings to Sweet Success

Cunningham’s trajectory is a tale of dreams realized. Raised in the San Fernando Valley, her love for cooking began with childhood competitions and culminated in a culinary degree from the Art Institute of North Hollywood. From baking cookies in her kitchen to opening a bustling bakery, her journey has been impressive.

The Future Looks Delicious

As the crowds continue to pour in, Cunningham remains dedicated to ensuring her bakery lives up to its viral fame. “Our tagline is ‘love made visible’,” she affirms, grateful for the affirmation that each treat matches the expectations cultivated online. According to LAist, her bakery is not just another storefront; it’s a vibrant meeting point where virtual dreams turn into tasty realities.