Nahia’s Cakes, founded by Stephanie Auiles and Oscar Varela in Lebanon Valley Mall, specializes in customized cakes and Hispanic baked goods. After relocating post-Hurricane Maria, Auiles cultivated her baking passion, leading to the establishment of their family-run bakery. With plans for future menu expansion, the establishment emphasizes community engagement and celebrates diverse culinary traditions.
In November 2017, Stephanie Auiles and her husband, Oscar Varela, relocated to the Lebanon area following Hurricane Maria. Varela shared that a friend had informed them of good employment opportunities in the region, prompting their move. Over time, Auiles developed a passion for baking, which led her to train and begin selling her creations through Facebook and to friends.
On March 1, Auiles and her family inaugurated Nahia’s Cakes by Frany at the Lebanon Valley Mall. This family-run bakery specializes in customized cakes, Hispanic-style baked goods, and beverages like coffees and piña coladas. Varela remarked on the diversity of tastes, encouraging patrons to sample across their offerings, including carrot cakes and brownies.
Auiles undertook culinary courses to enhance her baking skills and began sampling traditional Hispanic cakes to family friends. Word of mouth and vibrant social media posts helped her business grow. The name Nahia’s Cakes honors Auiles’ unborn daughter from 2015, reflecting the bakery’s heartfelt mission.
Auiles takes joy in crafting customized birthday cakes and personalized cookies, particularly quesitos, which are a cream cheese-filled puff pastry originating from Puerto Rico. Her engaging posts of baked goods on social media attract customers, a practice that has proven effective for her business.
Varela, who previously worked as a trailer mechanic and at Walmart, has culinary roots; his aunt owned a bakery in Puerto Rico. He stated that working alongside his wife not only allows for shared learning but also fosters their growth as business partners. Auiles specifically enjoys creating personalized treats, including cookies and brownies, and is eager to introduce traditional Hispanic ice cream as warmer weather approaches.
In an effort to broaden their offerings, the owners plan to incorporate baked goods from various cultures, expanding beyond the Hispanic-style goods currently available, while continuing to focus on customized cakes that reflect diverse culinary inspirations.
Nahia’s Cakes is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of Stephanie Auiles and Oscar Varela, who combined their passions and experiences to create a vibrant bakery in Lebanon Valley Mall. With a focus on customized cakes and a mission to celebrate culinary diversity, they aim to attract a wider audience while honoring their cultural heritage. Their success underscores the significance of community support and resilience in pursuing one’s dreams.
Original Source: www.ldnews.com
