Hi, I’m Jennifer.

My journey started in 2021, shortly after I moved from California during the middle of the pandemic with my baby boy. At the time, I quickly realized that returning to a normal 9-to-5 job was going to be very challenging. My husband was in the military, his work hours were unpredictable, we had no family or friends nearby, and the cost of childcare was extremely high. On top of that, as a first-time mom, the anxiety of leaving my baby with people I did not know made that decision even harder.

That was when I decided to turn my baking skills into something more. Baking was something I had done back in Puerto Rico, and I chose to pursue it as a side business. I started by trying to recreate the traditional flavors and textures I grew up with. At first, I imported ingredients to help bring those authentic tastes to life, but I quickly realized that would not always be easy. With determination, creativity, and a lot of trial and error, I was able to develop the flavor and texture that truly bring you back to Puerto Rico — or, if you have never been, give you a real taste of what Puerto Rican sweets are all about.

Once I perfected those flavors, I began selling through Facebook Marketplace and small community events. After about a year, many of my customers encouraged me to explore local farmers markets. I took that step, and it led me into an amazing journey that is still growing today. Along the way, I have met incredible people and built meaningful connections through my pastries.

When you try Tropical Baking Sweets, my goal is to take you to Puerto Rico with every bite. Even if you have never been there, our pastries are made with care, authentic flavor, and attention to detail to bring a little Puerto Rican sazón to Washington.