About Me
My Story
The Business
The Business
My favorite room will always be the kitchen. It's where I first watched my mother making her sweet potato pies and learned how to hold a butter knife to help my aunt Hattie cut strips of dough for her chicken and dumplings. Fond memories!
I sure can't forget traveling to Texas to see my Momma Mae and having conversations with my mother and father in the car, wondering what kind of delicious cakes she would have waiting for us. Those special moments as a child, will always be some of my favorites.
I studied pastry arts in culinary school, and observed techniques closely, so I didn't miss a thing. I learned how to use bakery tools and equipment to refine my baking skills. I always had ambitions about how incorporating what I learned in school with the family desserts I grew up with and always loved. Now, I aim to offer my customers classic homemade products, but with a new flair and style.
The Business
The Business
The Business
I established Kelly Girl Desserts & Pastry to provide customers with homemade, delicious desserts made with the finest ingredients and a unique flair. We also offer many vegan options.
Our Location
The Business
Our Location
Currently, you can find our delicious desserts at South Jersey farmer's markets and you can order online. I love bringing my family recipes directly to customers and having the opportunity to discuss their favorites and welcome their new product suggestions. And we always have free samples.
Staying connected to my customers is important to me, and I look forward to meeting you at the market.
West Windsor Community Winter Farmer’s Market
877 Alexander Road
West Windsor Township, NJ 08540
Every 2nd and 4th Saturday, from 9am to 1p through November 22nd.
Burlington County Agricultural Center Farmers Market
500 Centerton Road
Moorestown, NJ 08057
Every 1st and 3rd Saturday, from 8:30am to 1pm, through November 15th.
Bordentown Farmers Market
207 Crosswicks Street
Bordentown, NJ 08505
Every 1st Sunday, from 9am to 1pm through October 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at tlarkins@kellygirldesserts.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
There are two people, both my Aunt Hattie and Mom Mae (grandmother). Aunt Hattie would babysit me occasionally, and I would watch and sometimes help her make biscuits, peach cobblers, cakes, and chicken and dumplings. And even though Momma Mae lived in Texas, I Iooked forward to her hot water cornbread, caramel cake, and German Chocolate cake when I went to visit.
Over the years I baked for family and friends, and the desire to learn more grew. I struggled on the decision to attend culinary school, then one night I fell asleep on the couch while watching T.V., I woke up from a music video with rapper Eminem called "Loose Yourself". When he said, "You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow; this opportunity comes once in a lifetime." That was it; I took it as a sign that if I didn't do this now, I never would. So, I enrolled in culinary school.
The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College, in Philadelphia, PA, and graduated with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Pastry Arts.
The first few days were intimidating, and I was very nervous. I was in my early 40s, in a classroom of students who had recently graduated from high school and some in their early 20s. There eyes were asking me, what are you doing here? Some didn't think I would last, but it only pushed me to work harder, and over time, I gained respect.
So please if you have a dream, no matter your age, DO IT.
I had a production class every Saturday morning from 6am to 11am, and instructor always told the class how important it was to be here, no matter the circumstances, even bad weather, because customers rely on us.
One Saturday morning there was a severe snow storm, I dug out my truck and clear the driveway, and went to school. When I arrived, it was only myself and two others out of about twenty students. My instructor then realized how dedicated we were.
My first job as a baker was at a casino in Atlantic City. Initially, I was intimidated by the massive kitchen, mixers as tall as me, and ovens I could fit my whole body in. However, I knew it was the right place to learn and enhance my skills. I was surrounded by talented bakers and my plan was to learn from each one. There was one baker who brushed me off a few times, but I didn't let that stop me. One day I positioned myself in a way from my work staton where I could see and study every tool and technique she performed.
I've learned not everyone you work with will share what they have learned. So, it's up to you to find a way to elevate your knowledge and skills and appreciate those who do share their talents.
Teaching has always been so much fun for me. Watching your students create something you taught them always made me feel good.
Yes, all the time. My mother helps me out at the market, and the rest of the family always provides valuable suggestions.
I'm excited to share that, I will be expanding and offering delicious, creative celebration cakes. My business is three years old, and my customers often request special occasion cakes so it's time. Plus, they are so much fun to make. I will also, be implementing innovative marketing strategies to grow the business.
Ice Cream
Cakes and decorating because cakes have no limits for what you can do.
Although I do taste and eat everything I bake, I guess by being on my feet from 8 to 12 hours a day helps me burn it off.
Welcome to Kelly Girl Desserts & Pastries!
Please note all orders requires at least 7 days notice prior to pick up date.