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Food and Wine
Source : (remove) : Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Food and Wine
Source : (remove) : Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Local baker selling comfort food from food truck to raise money to support new storefront

Cincinnati's Comfort Cobbler: A Local Baker's Journey from Family Recipes to Food Truck Fame

In the heart of Cincinnati, where the aroma of Southern-inspired comfort food wafts through the streets, one local baker is turning heads and filling bellies with her unique blend of nostalgia and innovation. Meet the entrepreneur behind Comfort Cobbler, a vibrant food truck that's become a staple in the Queen City's culinary scene. Drawing from generations of family recipes, this mobile eatery serves up dishes that evoke the warmth of Sunday dinners and the sweetness of homemade desserts, all while paying homage to a beloved figure known as Aunt Flora.

The story begins with the baker's deep-rooted passion for cooking, inherited from her Aunt Flora, a matriarch whose kitchen was the epicenter of family gatherings. Aunt Flora's legendary peach cobbler, with its flaky crust and juicy, cinnamon-spiced filling, was more than just a dessert—it was a symbol of love and tradition. Inspired by these memories, the baker launched Comfort Cobbler as a way to share that heritage with the wider community. What started as a small venture has grown into a beloved food truck, affectionately nicknamed "Big Red" for its eye-catching crimson exterior that stands out at local events, festivals, and neighborhood pop-ups.

At the core of Comfort Cobbler's menu is an array of soul-soothing dishes that blend classic comfort food with creative twists. The star attraction, of course, is the peach cobbler, baked fresh and served warm, often topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience. But the offerings go far beyond sweets. Diners rave about the mac & cheese fries—a decadent fusion where crispy golden fries are smothered in creamy, cheesy macaroni, creating a handheld indulgence that's equal parts guilty pleasure and culinary genius. For those craving something savory, the fried fish is a standout: fresh fillets battered to perfection, fried until golden and flaky, and paired with tangy tartar sauce or a side of hush puppies.

No visit to Big Red would be complete without trying Freens pound cake, another nod to family legacy. This dense, buttery cake, infused with hints of vanilla and lemon zest, is named after a cherished relative (perhaps a playful family moniker) and baked in small batches to ensure that homemade quality. It's often described by customers as "like a hug in cake form," evoking the simple joys of childhood desserts. The menu rotates seasonally, but staples like these keep regulars coming back, while specials add excitement—think loaded potato skins or collard greens simmered with smoked turkey for that authentic Southern flair.

What truly sets Comfort Cobbler apart is its emphasis on "Sunday dinner" vibes, even on a weekday. The baker envisions her food truck as a rolling extension of the family table, where meals are more than sustenance—they're a communal experience. On weekends, the truck often features full Sunday dinner platters, complete with fried chicken, cornbread, green beans, and, of course, a slice of cobbler for dessert. This concept resonates deeply in Cincinnati, a city with a rich tapestry of cultural influences, including strong African American culinary traditions. The baker sources ingredients locally whenever possible, supporting nearby farms and suppliers to keep the flavors fresh and the community connected.

The journey to food truck success wasn't without challenges. Starting out, the baker balanced a full-time job with late-night baking sessions, perfecting recipes in her home kitchen. Securing permits, outfitting the Big Red truck, and navigating the competitive food scene in Cincinnati required grit and determination. But word-of-mouth buzz, amplified by social media shoutouts and glowing reviews on platforms like Yelp and Instagram, propelled Comfort Cobbler into the spotlight. Customers share stories of how a bite of the peach cobbler transports them back to their own grandmothers' kitchens, while newcomers are hooked by the innovative items like those mac & cheese fries.

Beyond the food, the baker is committed to giving back. Comfort Cobbler frequently participates in community events, from charity fundraisers to neighborhood block parties, donating portions of proceeds to local causes like food insecurity programs. This philanthropic spirit is rooted in Aunt Flora's teachings of generosity and hospitality, ensuring that the business isn't just about profit but about building connections. In interviews, the baker often reflects on how food has the power to heal and unite, especially in a post-pandemic world where people crave comfort more than ever.

As Cincinnati's food scene continues to evolve, Comfort Cobbler stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of home-style cooking with a modern twist. Whether you're a local hunting for a quick lunch or a visitor exploring the city's flavors, Big Red offers an inviting pit stop. The menu's diversity caters to all tastes—vegetarian options like stuffed peppers or sweet potato pie ensure inclusivity—while maintaining that core focus on soulful, satisfying eats.

Looking ahead, the baker has ambitions to expand, perhaps opening a brick-and-mortar location or franchising the concept. For now, though, the food truck roams the streets of Cincinnati, from Over-the-Rhine to the riverfront, dishing out plates of joy one cobbler at a time. It's more than a business; it's a living tribute to Aunt Flora and the timeless tradition of Sunday dinners, reminding us all that the best meals are those shared with love.

In a city known for its chili and goetta, Comfort Cobbler is carving out its own niche, proving that comfort food can be both innovative and heartfelt. If you haven't tried the fried fish paired with a cold Big Red soda (a fizzy nod to the truck's name and a classic Southern beverage), you're missing out on a true Cincinnati gem. As the baker puts it, "Food is family," and at Comfort Cobbler, every customer is treated like kin. With its growing fanbase and mouthwatering menu, this local baker's story is just beginning to unfold, one delicious bite at a time.

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Read the Full Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati Article at:
[ https://local12.com/news/local/cincinnati-local-baker-food-truck-comfort-cobbler-big-red-aunt-flora-peach-mac-cheese-fries-fried-fish-freens-pound-cake-sunday-dinner ]