Q&A with Alisha Henderson
Asoke x co.bake
Alisha accidentally fell into the world of baking at 19 years old, whilst working as a professional cheerleader and studying a journalism degree. Sharing her baked creations online set off a delicious whirlwind, so the journalism and the dancing (though, truth be told, she still dances around the kitchen) were left behind and Sweet Bakes was born.
Together with Alisha Henderson (Sweet Bakes), Alice set up Co.Bake Space in Melbourne, where these two busy little bakers continue to grow their sweet-loving empires.
We chat with her about creativity, styling, and of course, food.
What are your creative outlets outside of baking?
I'm a lover of art in every sense of the word! I love to paint in my free time and am super inspired by artists outside of the food space.
Favourite flowers for styling?
I love stems that have some fun to them - like poppies that wind and contort all over the place, a tulip that bends over or a big squiggly blossom branch!
Your top tip for baking?
Have patience. I am by nature a VERY impatient person, I have too much excitement! Baking however requires patience and often where most people go wrong is wanting to jump to the next step or stage too quickly (ie. I know its tempting to frost a hot cake but that a messy disaster!)
You've got friends coming over. What are you serving?
I love a theme for a dinner party and to carry it through the menu from start to finish. My go-to typically is French (they know how to indulge!) Oysters mignonette and champagne are essential starters, Coq au Vin is a fav for entertaining as you can slow cook it all day to take the stress off, with a vinegary butter leaf salad. I love to finish with (if not cake) a creme brûlée or ice cream (and more champagne).
Play favourites. What's your top pick from the Asoke x Co.Bake range?
The white cake stand. I've been baking cakes for 11 years trying to find a stand that supports the weight of statement cake, has a flat plate and is totally stunning has not been an option until this gorgeous creation (biased, totally, but it's true!)
