Most of us have been reconsidering our priorities lately.

But for one creative Cork baker, the lockdown was a catalyst for a major change of career that has worked out in the sweetest way. In fact, the proof is literally in the pudding.

Jacqueline Murphy’s Petite Pâtisserie Cork has been tempting new customers by filling our Instagram feeds with coffee flavoured cupcakes filled with buttercream and topped with Biscoff Lotus biscuits and chocolate brownies stuffed with Dairy Milk Oreo.

A new direction

Surprisingly, Jacqueline’s background isn’t it baking. In fact, up until recently, she was working in a high-pressure role within the legal industry. The lockdown offered time to reconsider her priorities in terms of job satisfaction:

“Like many others (due to the COVID situation) I was put in a position where I had some time to slow down/reflect and realised I needed a change of direction,” she told Yay Cork.

“I’m a creative soul and it has always been a goal of mine to start my own business so combining that with my new-found love for cake designing, Petite Patisserie Cork was born!”

Couture cupcakes

Based just outside of Douglas village, Petite Patisserie Cork offers a collection service seven days a week, as well as nationwide delivery on selected items such as traybakes. A new website launches at the end of August and until then you can order on Instagram or email petitepatisseriecork@gmail.com.

Prices start at €12 for a box of custom-made cupcakes, with delicious traybakes and bespoke celebration cakes made to order.

“When I was growing up, my Mam was always a keen baker so there are definitely elements of her recipes in my creations. I’m a ‘one-woman show’ and respond to all inquiries myself, I feel that personal touch makes a difference in a world full of automated customer service.”

With everyone searching for ways to brighten up kitchen coffees and celebrate special occasions at home, the business has been booming.

“The response so far has been amazing,” says Jacqueline. “I’ve catered for numerous birthdays, baby showers and anniversary celebrations, as well as an intimate wedding last weekend – August and September are booking up fast.”

Looks like you can have your cake and eat it after all.