Sweet Success: Somerville Mom Turns Baking Passion Into Cookie Business

SOMERVILLE, NJ — Maria Winter's untapped skill and passion for baking was unveiled thanks to her son and is now flourishing under her Somerville home-based business Dessert Heat Cookie Co.

Winter, who works full-time as a teacher in Readington, was home with her 7-year-old son Nash during the pandemic when they decided to try a Christmas cookie challenge.

"I thought it was interesting and wanted to try this out. I did and kept at it," said Winter.

She began baking for friends and co-workers and over time she honed her skills.

In October 2021, New Jersey finally adopted the Cottage Food Laws which allows residents to bake and sell their items to customers, right from their homes. New Jersey was the last state to adopt this.

The timing of this law came at a perfect time when Winter decided to launch her business Dessert Heat Cookie Co.

Winter focuses on just cookies with classics like chocolate chip along with a variety of gourmet and drop cookies. She also has custom-decorated sugar cookies with royal icing for all types of occasions including birthdays, baby showers, graduations, and more.

Winter also has screen cookies where she will take an image and have it printed using an edible printer onto the cookie.

"I've had someone ask to print out a picture of a sonogram to put on a cookie," said Winter.

Everything is baked in Winter's kitchen and decorated at home. She is still teaching with her cookie business on the side.

"My idea and goal is that any income I put aside for my son to go to college," said Winter.

While she does baking on the side, she noted that it "is in my blood."

Winter's uncle moved to America from Italy and grew up in a bakery in Brooklyn. Winter has lots of memories of going to Brooklyn to see him.

"He helped inspire some of the recipes I use today," said Winter. "I still bounce ideas off of him."

As time has passed, Winter says she is fortunate to be able to bake at home and do something that she loves.

"It's definitely a hobby turned into a passion," said Winter. "Being a baker really is amazing, to be a part of people's lives. To be a small part of their memories and milestones that to me is really sweet."

For more information on Dessert Heat Cookie Co. visit dessertheatcookieco.square.site or facebook.com/dessertheatcookieco or instagram.com/dessertheatcookieco.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.