New Find - Cameron Ellis

I love finding people who have a passion for life and a love for food, it's a win-win in my book! My friend, Cameron Ellis, embodies both of these qualities. I've known her for some time, but did not realize her love for baking until one day while scrolling through Instagram I noticed these uh-mazing cookies. Seriously, my mouth was watering! I immediately knew I had to feature her on the blog.

One of my biggest goals for this blog is to introduce y'all to new people, companies and organizations that focus on local produce, being a presence in their community, and giving back. Cameron is full of life, lives in Atlanta and loves giving the gift of baked goodies to friends and family! Check out my interview with her, and stay tuned for how you can WIN something yummy straight from her kitchen! #CookiesBrowniesAndPie #OhMy #KaleMeKelly

1. How long have you been baking?
I have been baking more seriously for about 5 years, but I have been helping my Mama in the kitchen for years. The women in my family taught me everything I know!

2. What inspired you to get into baking?
I come from a southern family, and my Grandmother always believed that you should have a fresh, home baked dessert for "company". But, it wasn't until I had a health scare in my life that I started to get into baking. Baking, or more so the process of baking, was comforting and familiar in a time of uncertainty. However, one can only eat so many desserts by themselves, so I started giving my desserts away to friends, co workers and family. Nothing says congratulations, I'm sorry or just because like a homemade dessert. In fact, I have a chocolate peanut butter pie setting in the fridge right now to congratulate good friends of mine on becoming homeowners!

3. I'm all about cupcakes! What's your favorite goody to make?!
Cupcakes are the most fun treat to make. You have such creative freedom from the liner, to the cake, to the decor and icing on top. Cupcakes are also great because you can make a batch and deliver to friends more easily than an entire cake. I also enjoy baking pies because they are simple as can be, and who doesn't love an all-American apple pie?!

4. What types of events do you make your yummy treats for?
I most often make my treats for what has come to be known as the "Sunday Delivery". I bake something up yummy, package it, and drive around Atlanta dropping of treats with friends. Events surrounding the holidays are my favorite! For example, I did 7 different desserts, including cute pilgrim hats, for a Friendsgiving this past year. What fun in the kitchen even if it did take me hours to clean up! Any event is an excuse to try out a dessert, like champagne cupcakes for a Champagne and Cheese Girls Night.

5. OK, spill...I need your favorite Cinnamon Roll recipe.
My favorite cinnamon roll recipe is from Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman. Before, cinnamon rolls used to intimidate me with all of the rising of the yeast, etc. When I found Ree Drummond's recipe in her cookbook, step by step pictures accompanied the easy recipe. They are a cinch to make, so no more store bought tube rolls! Ree's recipe is completely customizable as well. With her base dough recipe, you can make traditional cinnamon rolls, lemon blueberry rolls or cinnamon apple rolls. The possibilities are endless!

Cameron is currently a Senior Business Development Coordinator for Troutman Sanders LLP, an international law firm headquartered in Atlanta. Prior to moving back to her hometown of Atlanta, she was enjoying the Classic City, Athens, GA. Cameron is a double Dawg through and through, earning her undergraduate and master's degree at the University of Georgia. In her spare time, Cameron enjoys running, eating her way through the city with friends and, of course, baking!

As always, let me know what you're loving about my blog. Just use the #kalemekelly on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram! And don't forget about the Mother's Day Giveaway I  have going on NOW until May 3. See the rules over on my Insta!