While most high school students participate in hobbies recreationally, there is a different story for senior Brooke-Lynn Merrill. Her passion for baking and precision has turned her off-time hobby into a business.
Merrill’s passion for baking isn’t what you would expect; the not-so-simple hobby was actually started once she discovered it would help her cope with her OCD. Discovered last year, Merrill was able to flip the stress into a healthy coping mechanism. With a slight smile, she explains how the kitchen has become her sanctuary.
“The measurements have to be perfect…usually I’m able to, kind of shut off when I’m baking… It’s always been a really good outlet for my stress, and for stuff that I’ve had going on,” Merrill said.
Merrill found herself gaining support from her friends and family. A family friend saw the potential in Merrill and chose to sell her cookies at a local bar
“He would take them there and just tell people, ‘I have cookies, $3. Take it or leave it.’ He would just start selling my cookies for me … A bunch of people were eating these cookies, and really enjoying them… people want to keep buying more. So now I have regulars from that,” Merrill said.
Her cookies were originally consumed by her and her boyfriend’s family. In the beginning, she utilized recipes from TikTok. But after branching out and experimenting with different ingredients, Merrill has discovered that she was able to bake independently. With a confident tone, she shares her journey of culinary exploration.
“Eventually, I was able to make my own recipe. I changed the amount of eggs or vanilla or flour and stuff like that, or chilling time… there’s a lot of stuff that goes into making a cookie,” Merrill said.
Typically, students have less free time during the peak seasons of school; however, Merrill finds herself in a different situation, able to create the time she needs to bake. With a reassuring smile, she explains how baking helps manage her life.
“The more I have going on, the more I’m in the kitchen… It really helps with the stress of it all,” Merrill said.
You can find Merrill on Instagram under @brookiescookies. She sells her cookies for $5 each.
