Simply Sweet Creations Offers Custom Confections For Every Occasion

By Erin Gallagher, Patch Contributor 

When a certified Wilton cake decorating instructor decided to open her own bakery, she chose Oak Lawn.

Adriana Aranda, owner of Simply Sweet Creations, said the business has been growing simply by word-of-mouth.

Aranda's pastry talent first started to develop when she began teaching herself through YouTube videos. She eventually started taking classes and finally becoming an instructor.

She has traveled to various bakeries throughout the Chicago area teaching classes while building a business out of her home.

"I had quite a client base, about 200-plus," Aranda said.

Located at 5712 W. 95th St., Simply Sweet Creations is a nut-free bakery. Aranda talked to area schools and learned that it has become a common childhood allergy. That's why she went to great lengths to keep nuts out of her new bakery all-together.

"I do dairy-free cakes upon request," she said, adding gluten-free is also an option.

As the head decorator, Aranda takes the time to sketch out her designs first. Because hers is a custom bakery, cakes, cookies and cupcakes can all be created to match whatever party theme you dream up. 

Looking at the shop's website testimonials, customers rave about the taste. Aranda uses an Italian meringue filling instead of the common powdered sugar- based frostings. 

"It's cooked sugar and egg whites which are light and airy, with the texture of mousse," she explained.

Another item that is very popular is the combination of banana cream and dulce de leche butter cream. When paired, the cinnamon in each flavor creates the perfect compliment.

Simply Sweet Creations is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. They offer decorating classes, private events and parties on other days.

The kitchen holds ten people, so groups such as Girl Scouts and bachelorette parties can be held there. Classes range from $35 for cupcake decorating, $45 for a buttercream cake class, and $60 for a fondant cake class. 

The shop's website, www.SimplySweetOnline.com will soon have a class calendar with online registration available. For more information, call 773-492-8151.