Grandma Leaves Sweet Treats On Her Porch For Friends In Pandemic

SOUTHOLD, NY — One North Fork grandma has sweetened the days of the pandemic quarantine by leaving warm, sweet baked treats for family and friends on her front porch.

Rose Brandine, who is retired and lives in Southold, says she has a few select customers and prefers to stay small. "I am a hobby baker and bake for a few friends," she said.

Almost every day, Brandine posts a photos of a delectable creation on social media, with mouthwatering choices including homemade cream pies; lemon chiffon cake with lemon ganache and coconut flakes; sugar cookies; vegan German blackout cake; lemon curd cupcakes; peach cobbler; cannoli cupcakes — and her signature flower cupcakes. An array of sweet and edible flowers, including hydrangeas, tea roses and peonies, blossom atop the "cupcake bouquets."

Hungry customers are told how much the offering costs, and where they can pick up the goodies — right on Brandine's front porch.

Brandine has a Facebook page, "Rosebud", and anyone who wants to savor some of her sweets can message her there, she said.

"I bake with love and a little touch of shabby chic," Brandine said. "The cupcakes sit in paper lace baskets and boxes are decorated with vintage ribbon and, of course, a rosebud."

Her favorites include cupcakes with handmade chocolate flowers, Brandine said.

But despite her success — the word is out, and neighbors are reaching out to try and find Brandine and her to-die-for desserts — Brandine remains humble.

"I'm just a Southold grandma who loves to bake for her family, friends, and grandchildren," she said.