CARYN  LYLES  PASTRY  CHEF. 

To say I love baking is an understatement.  It’s an opportunity to discover and be creative. To get messy. To enjoy time spent with family and friends. But most importantly, to have fun! I began my baking career with my mom, in our kitchen having a blast and (sorry mom!) making a mess. I enjoyed it so much that I took four years of culinary arts in high school. But that didn’t satisfy my hunger so I pursued my degree at Sullivan University in Louisville, Kentucky. While attending school, I was lucky enough to work at Nord’s bakery; a third generation establishment. You could say that this is where my true origin story starts. I learned how to flat ice and decorate birthday cakes. I made homemade breads. I obviously made a mess and had fun. It was a joy and I can’t thank them enough for starting me on my journey.

 

After I received my degree in Science of Baking and Pastry Arts (yes, it’s a real thing) I moved to Paducah, Kentucky. I’ve had the opportunity to work and learn from some world class bakers at their establishments. From crafting recipes to perfecting textured buttercream designs to applying gold flake, I was a sponge, soaking it all in. One particular place I was employed, Branch Out, taught me how to make gluten free treats. That was huge as I am completely gluten free and know that it’s hard to find tasty options. I enjoyed all of these moments but I knew that I wanted to bring my talents to the world in my own, unique way.

 

And here we are. Baked by Caryn is a chance for me to express my distinct, creative abilities and help people find happiness on their special days.  I love working with people. It makes what I do that much more gratifying. I realized that I wanted to share my passion with others. So, I started teaching classes. Seeing adults act like children, dusting edible glitter EVERYWHERE and having fun inspires me. Watching kids decorate their first cake and seeing the joy and sense of accomplishment on their cute, little faces inspires me. I hope that I can continue to inspire people, young or old, to get creative and have some fun. Maybe they will even get “bit” by the bug. The same bug that took hold of me all those years ago in my mom’s kitchen.