Bodega Bakes: Recipes for Sweets and Treats for the Neighborhood

A baking book bursting with joy, Paola Velez's debut cookbook, "Bakers Against Racism," is a love letter to her Dominican heritage and New York City roots. Growing up in the Bronx, Paola's happy place was the bodega, a unique world filled with color, flavor, and a resident cat (IYKYK). Before becoming a James Beard–nominated chef, Cherry Bombe cover girl, and social media darling, Paola was a bodega kid with a taste for Warheads, Hostess cupcakes, ice pops, and Malta soda.

Inspired by the treasures and ingredients found in corner stores everywhere, Paola's recipes burst with distinctive flavors, inviting you to enjoy new takes on her childhood favorites and yours. With more than 100 recipes, her combination of classical training and self-taught pastry skills ensures accessibility for bakers of all skill levels. Paola will be your hype girl, guiding you through more ambitious projects, like making Guava and Cheese Turnovers, as well as more "set it and forget it" treats, such as her Maria Cookie Icebox Cake.

The standout recipe in Paola's repertoire, and the one that made her internet famous, is her signature Thick'ems—giant cookies that are somehow crunchy and gooey. This recipe, shared here for the first time, is the most requested in her collection.

Alongside renditions of traditional Caribbean desserts like Pineapple Empanadillas and Golden Rum Cake, Paola's unique recipes offer twists on classic American treats, such as sticky buns and brownies. Her infectious positive spirit will help you recreate the magic of the bodega at home, complete with a BYO cat.

Paola's debut cookbook is a joyful exploration of her roots, blending the flavors of her Dominican heritage with the vibrant energy of New York City. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, Paola's recipes and warm, encouraging voice will have you hightailing it to the oven and planning a trip to your local corner store.

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