The Artistry of a Dancing Pastry Chef

by Greta Hudson Honsberger

WITH COUNTLESS HOURS spent in her mother’s and grandmother’s kitchens, helping and observing true culinary expertise, Kaitlin Guerin cultivated a deep appreciation for cooking, particularly baking. These timeless experiences also inspired the young artist to step out of her comfort zone, take risks, and believe in serendipity.

Artistic expression has always been a significant part of Kaitlin’s life. Prior to her career shift to pursue the art of pastry making, she studied and pursued a career in professional dance. However, her love for the precision and creativity of culinary arts led her to the Culinary Institute of America, followed by an internship in Denmark and stints in Michelinstarred kitchens. This diverse experience allowed her to explore various culinary environments, hone her leadership skills, and ultimately, carve a rewarding career in pastry making.

In early 2020, what was to be a short visit home to New Orleans became permanent due to the Pandemic. Seeking a means to express her artistic side, Kaitlin began a pastry pop-up, appropriately named Lagniappe Baking, as it provided that “little something extra,” namely comfort and joy, during the unpredictable days of the Pandemic. The Lagniappe Baking pop-up, featuring a box of four delectable pastries, was a resounding success. This venture, however, was only setting the stage for the future and only the beginning for the dancing pastry chef. Fast-forward a few years and a few hundred pastries later, and the once pop-up pastry shop is set to open as a brick-and-mortar establishment in Central City in late July. Instrumental in Kaitlin’s transition from a pop-up to a bake shop is the Junior League’s Women Entrepreneur fellowship. As the 2024 fellowship recipient, Kaitlyn has gained confidence and business acumen. She is ready and eager to shine as an entrepreneur.

The vision for Lagniappe Bakehouse & Coffee is to create an elegant and nostalgic experience that celebrates Black Southern foodways using local, seasonal ingredients. Situated in a coffeedeserted area, Lagniappe Bakehouse & Coffee highlights local ingredients and Southern culinary traditions. The concept of lagniappe is at the heart of Kaitlin’s vision. She likes to surprise her patrons with pastry samples, adding an unexpected delight to their experience.

The minimalist, “grandma-chic” design of Lagniappe Bakehouse & Coffee creates a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of family kitchens, featuring a variety of baked goods, including viennoiserie, cakes, cookies, and biscuits, complemented by a coffee program showcasing beans from Ethiopia and Kenya.

As she prepares for the grand opening, Kaitlin is eager to share her love of artistic expression in baking and remind her city about the endearing concept of lagniappe.

Lagniappe Bakehouse & Coffee, 1825 Euterpe St., New Orleans, lagniappebaking.com