Yesterday I posted a picture of a cupcake on a favorite Facebook page. Today as I was going through all the comments I was asked for the recipe. Well, as a bakery owner I have to question whether to share or not to share.
I don't mind saying "Oh, I used a recipe from ...." if I used someone else’s recipe. (ie: Martha Stewart, Paula Deen, Warren Brown, etc) But if I created it (or altered another recipe or it was an old family recipe of a friends) I prefer not to share right away. What if one day I decide to write a book? Right now I am trying to build my baking business and feel if I give away all my recipes, why would someone come to me for the product when they can bake it themselves.
I love searching books, magazines, and the internet for ideas and inspiration. I like to alter and create but honestly, I'm no chemist so I use the basic recipe and add or subtract to my liking and then ask others to taste test!!
One person said they are a professional chef and was told by their instructor to share their recipes. What if every chef at every restaurant made the same dishes? Why would you go to that one special place where the chef creates the most luscious tri tip steak and presents it in a manner that is so appealing your mouth waters when the plate is set in front of you?
I believe that if it’s something I enjoy, I might ask; “What’s in this?” I’m certain they would tell me but I feel likely that they would not sit down and write out the recipe for me. Any of you chefs out there, please correct me if I’m wrong, but, would you please tell me the recipe for your favorite dessert??
I don’t mind sharing, really!!! I will loan you my pans, some of my equipment, my recipe books (and I own A LOT of them!!) I will even let you borrow my kids (although, they are of the age that they may say differently – sorry bout that!) I will show you how to create any craft idea I may have, I will make suggestions for using items you have waiting to be turned into something fun and fascinating even, I will bake you whatever you’d like, I will gift those things to you even, but, give you the recipe- not likely!
I make these great coconut macaroons. Every year I make a couple dozen for a friend as a gift for his birthday (which just happens to be the same day as mine) He LOVES them but has never once asked me for the recipe!
I also make amazing spaghetti sauce and I have told many people what I use in it. I can honestly say I can’t tell you what the recipe is because I do not measure when I make it. I add until it looks “right” or smells like it’s done.
Am I being selfish for not giving away my trade secrets?? Or am I protecting my business and any future assets? After all, one day I want to be just like Martha (well, I’ll pass on the prison thing but I’d love to have books, magazines, TV shows, a few homes and lots of traveling as a part of my legacy.)
PS- do you need a place to store and transport all those mini cupcakes you created for the holiday?? Try a clean egg carton!! Perfect fit and even after closing won't squish the frosting unless it's piled really, really high!!
Sincerely,
The Garden Party Baker
