A TIMELESS children’s folk tale about having a good work ethic and helping others prosper is at the heart of Mt Claremont’s newest tasty offering.
Little Red Hen Bakehouse – named after the Russian fable – adds contemporary charm to the Asquith-Strickland Street hub, home to popular breakfast and lunch spot Deli Chicchi.
Owners and sisters, Penny Cook – formerly of Sweet on Cupcakes in Dalkeith – grew up reading the story and baking with their mother, although Wendy admits to licking bowls more than mixing ingredients.
After selling the cupcake business last year (opened in 2007), the pair (Penny, one-time owner of Quality Comics in Perth and Wendy, mother of two daughters) took a short break to contemplate their futures.
Refusing to give up their passion for baking, they reunited – much to the delight of western suburbs’ sweet-tooths – this time expanding their line to include cakes, brownies, biscuits, slices and tarts.
Flexing their creative muscle, the sisters also offer treats such as meringue towers, whoopie pies – cross between a cake and a biscuit-filled with marshmallow icing – and cake pops – cake mixed with frosting, placed on a stick and dipped in coating.
“We wanted to do something involving more types of things, rather than just the one product,” Wendy said.
“Having enjoyed great support from locals in our previous store, we thought we’d stay in the area,” Penny added. “We are well supported here and we like the community feel.
“The trick (about baking) is to follow the recipe,” Penny said.
“It might seem obvious, but you must make sure you measure your ingredients well and don’t estimate or you can easily alter the chemistry,” Wendy added.
All Little Red Hen Bakehouse goodies are handmade each day on the premises.
A personalised delivery service across the metro area is available.