Houston pastry chef Rebecca Masson has launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise $50,000 to help her equip a permanent location for her business Fluff Bake Bar. The former Top Chef: Just Desserts contestant announced Tuesday that she's found a spot in Midtown to bring the concept to life if she can raise the money necessary to install proper refrigeration and ovens.
While the new location will serve as a retail outlet for her cakes, fluffernutters and other treats, the chef will also serve plated desserts paired with beer and wine. In a statement Masson explains that "the 'bar' in 'Fluff Bake Bar' was always meant to be just that … A bakery-meets-tavern type spot where you could enjoy an unforgettable plated dessert alongside a craft beer or glass of wine."
If Masson's fans fund the project by Dec. 19, she expects to open in the first quarter of 2014.
If her fans fund the project by Dec. 19, she expects to open in the first quarter of 2014.
Masson currently works out of the Kraftsman Baking kitchen in The Heights but writes that "oven time and counter space are scarce, and I need my own kitchen to accommodate demand and grow my business." Her various treats can be found at Revival Market and other locations, but none ever sell the complete selection. A permanent space would change that.
As for the rewards, they're designed to appeal to anyone who agrees with CultureMap that Masson makes some of Houston's best cookies. Pledge at least $25 to get six cookies or $50 for a dozen with a tote bag. The $100 level ups the ante to six cookies per month for three months. Really big fans may want to pledge $500 to attend a class taught by Masson or $1,000 to attend a pre-opening event.
Although it only launched Tuesday morning, so far 35 people have pledged nearly $5,000 to fund the project. If it succeeds, Fluff Bake Bar will join Common Bond and FM 903 as chef-owned, technique-oriented bakeries. In other words, 2014 is shaping up to be a great year for sweets.
Masson's signature Fluffernutters need a new home.
