BAKING MEMORIES

From heirloom recipes to the scent of spiced fruits, Mumbai's bakers are preserving the art of Christmas cakes with heart and history

- WORDS PRATIKSHA ACHARYA

In Mumbai, a city that thrives on reinvention, the allure of Christmas lies not just in its dazzling lights, bustling markets, and the annual decor in Damian's shopfront, but in a quieter, more enduring tradition – the Christmas cake. Every December, amid the glitter of Instagram-perfect desserts and trendy confections, bakers turn to their family recipes, unearthing handwritten notes and cherished memories. They aren't just baking cakes; they are baking their history, their legacy, and their love.

In Bandra, where the winter air carries the faint scent of baking spices, home bakers like Griselda Costa and Desiree Bradford keep these traditions alive. Their kitchens are intimate spaces where the spirit of Christmas thrives. For Griselda, baking is deeply entwined with childhood memories of watching her grandmother mix bowls of fruit and nuts with loving precision, a ritual she now passes on to her children. Desiree sees each cake as a tribute to her late mother, following her recipes with unwavering loyalty while adding her own flair.

Both bakers, well-loved in their Bandra community, have turned their passion into a labour of love. For their loyal customers, who place orders months in advance, Griselda and Desiree's creations are synonymous with Christmas itself – a slice of comfort that feels like home. Through these bakers, the legacy of the Christmas cake remains intact, a delicious reminder that the most meaningful traditions are made in the warmth of a home kitchen.

A SLICE OF HISTORY