AJ started her own bakery at 10 years old when she won first place at her local state fair using her homemade recipe of chocolate chip – walnut – banana bread.

She had always had a passion for baking and cooking since she was little helping her grandmother in the kitchen. “I could leave her in the kitchen and come back a few hours later and have a gourmet meal for dinner,” says her mother.

AJ decided to call her business AJ’s Bakery Box and has plans to one day open up a restaurant called Grandma’s Kitchen inspired by all the work her grandmother has done. The restaurant will be all around the world and will feature things from Italian to Puerto Rican food.

Influences growing up

Her grandmother loves experimenting with new recipes. “Whenever she tasted something good at a restaurant, she took the recipe home and perfected it. She always makes it better than the the professionals too”, says AJ. “I have always loved baking and cooking in the kitchen with her. My sister and I always helped with Thanksgiving dinner and when your walk in the kitchen knowing you made those smells come alive, it’s pretty great.”

“I am grateful and hope all those young bakers and chefs out there follow their dreams!”