Why I Cook
The blogger, cookbook author and baker extraordinaire has been inspired by her grandma, whom she fondly calls Big Mama, since her childhood. Now, the same recipes that made her grandma so beloved in her small Mississippi town are shared on Jocelyn’s own website, grandbaby-cakes.com, and in her cookbook. Here, she tells us why she’s so sweet on cooking.
What first inspired you to bake?
My family lineage is deeply rooted in Mississippi. I feel that I was truly southernbred, and baking is a huge thing in my family. It all began with Big Mama
(aka Maggie), who allowed me to help her bake in the kitchen. As her assistant, I did everything from sifting flour to mixing batter. I did this in her kitchen alongside my mother and auntie. It truly made me love everything about baking— especially the eating part.
When you’re in a pinch, what do you whip up?
For dessert, I make a Sock-it-to-me Cake. It doctors up a cake mix, so it doesn’t require a lot of extra ingredients or mixing. But it tastes super homemade! It is quite special and an ode to my family’s southern roots.
TRY ONE OF JOCELYN’S FAVORITE RECIPES
Place 1 cup fresh blackberries in a blender; cover and process until pureed. Press through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl; discard seeds. In a large bowl, beat 2 cups until creamy. Beat in
and a Gradually beat
unsalted butter vanilla extract salt. confectioners’ sugar
1 tsp. dash of in 7 cups until smooth. Add blackberry puree; beat until blended.
What’s your all-time favorite recipe?
My favorite thing to cook is my husband’s favorite meal: my Italian pot roast. The entire home smells divine, and it is such a hearty meal that fills you with love and comfort.
Which do you generally prefer—sweet or savory dishes?
I actually go back and forth. Sometimes I’m in a serious savory kind of mood and crave meats, gravies and veggies galore. And during the holiday season, I am all about the cookies, cakes and pies. I believe in equal opportunity for savory and sweet dishes.
In your opinion, what’s the best thing about cooking?
Blackberry Buttercream
I love the journey of cooking. The process is relaxing, inspiring and creative. The destination is the best part, though. Seeing those I love experience my meals fills me with so much joy.
grandbaby-cakes.com.