Carina ClaassensWe chat to Jandri van Zyl, pastry chef and owner of The Velvet Cake Co. in Bellville, Cape Town
Why did you choose this career?
I didn’t really choose the career, it chose me! Baking is in my blood and was passed down from my grandmother. I never thought to make it my career but before I knew it I was selling cakes out of my apartment. The rest is history.
Where did you study?
I studied at Capsicum Culinary Institute in Salt River, Cape Town.
Who or what is your biggest inspiration?
My parents and three sisters inspire me every day.
What has been the highlight of your career?
Definitely opening The Velvet Cake Co. in Cape Town CBD – it’s a dream come true.
Your decor style in three words
Colourful, modern, clean
Instagram, Twitter or Facebook?
All three! Follow us on Twitter @Velvetcakeco and Instagram @thevelvetcakeco and like our Facebook page here
Top tip for anyone wanting to open a bakery?
Always stick to what you do best and improve on that, follow your gut and put in the hard work.
Favourite item in your home right now?
Le Creuset pots and pans.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Reality TV
What current baking trend is your favourite?
I really love the drip cake and metallic cake trends.
What are you working on right now?
We are developing some fun and colourful cakes for summer – a must on any dessert table.
What’s the best thing you ever bought?
I really do love my MacBook Pro.
What’s your dream project?
I would love to create our very own Velvet Cake Co. baking gadgets and equipment range, from whisks to aprons to cupcake wrappers and more.
