FROM BREAD TO CHOCOLATE BROWNIES - ALL THINGS INTERESTING
WHISK AWAY YOUR WORRIES - MY TREAT
For Flour & Dough’s founder, baking isn't just about creating delicious treats—it's a journey of resilience, discovery, and the sweet triumphs of overcoming life's toughest challenges. Mare Van Der Berg’s evolving story is truly as inspiring as the bread and brownies she bakes. Brain Tumour And Baking When Mare Van Der Berg was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour in March 2022, she never imagined the impact it would have on her mental health. From struggling with balancing, hearing and 04 even loss of taste (a devastating blow to a baker) to grappling with the emotional toll of surgeries and treatments, Mare's journey is heartbreaking.
For Flour & Dough’s founder, baking isn't just about creating delicious treats—it's a journey of resilience, discovery, and the sweet triumphs of overcoming life's toughest challenges. Mare Van Der Berg’s evolving story is truly as inspiring as the bread and brownies she bakes. Brain Tumour And Baking When Mare Van Der Berg was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour in March 2022, she never imagined the impact it would have on her mental health. From struggling with balancing, hearing and 04 even loss of taste (a devastating blow to a baker) to grappling with the emotional toll of surgeries and treatments, Mare's journey is heartbreaking.
that hurts and kicks my butt daily and I am sorry for every person that has to deal with any sort of mental health issues, I wish I could take it all away,” she said. For Mare, the road to healing began with normalising self-care. As she navigated her own mental health journey to be there for her young family, she discovered solace in nature and the simple joys of watching hawks soar and calves frolic. Turning Pain Into Pleasure Flour & Dough was Mare's brainchild born during her maternity leave in 2021. Faced with the challenge of balancing motherhood with financial responsibilities, Mare sought a creative outlet that would allow her to pursue her passion for baking while being present for her children. Inspired by the encouragement of loved ones, Flour & Dough emerged. Mare's baking mixes, starting with her beloved Beer Bread, is still today a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness. With each pouch of mix, Mare poured her heart into crafting simple yet decadent treats that has brought joy to countless homes. Among Flour & Dough's delicious lineup, Mare's brownie mix holds a special place in her heart. From its humble beginnings to winning a bronze award in the foodie world, the brownie mix is quick, easy yet packs a flavourful punch. She said, “This is the recipe that I have had, forever. I have changed it multiple times over the years, experimented with it, but I have always gone back to the original as you just can’t beat a good, chewy brownie. “Here’s a little tip: as soon as you’re done baking it, pop it into the fridge overnight, or if you really can’t wait that long, for at least 3 hours—it turns into fudge.” — flouranddough.co.nz
Follow My Treat here and have a look at their wonderful range.
Why low carb is the best way of eating for permanent weight loss - by Sheryl Takayama
This guest blog is written by Sheryl Takayama, Founder of Why Weight Academy. Sheryl has maintained a 30kg weight loss for the past 23 years, with a low carb nutrition plan.
Sheryl is a qualified nutritionist and has helped women achieve their weight loss goals for the past 13 years. Her online programme – Why Weight Academy – includes low carb nutrition plans, mindset resources to help with emotional eating and coaching for individual support.
For more info go to www.whyweightacademy.com
Why low carb is the best way of eating for permanent weight loss
Recently I caught up with a client who I haven’t seen for several months. When he walked in the door with a big beaming smile, he looked like a completely different man.
Having followed a low carb food plan for the past six months, he’s seen dramatic improvements with his blood sugar levels, energy and weight. He has lost 13kgs in total and 10kgs of fat. The best part for me was hearing how much he is enjoying the journey:
“I can’t believe how easy this way of eating is. I love every meal and don’t feel hungry. I’ve struggled with food all my life and this is the easiest thing I’ve ever done, ” he said.
Hearing this gave me so much joy and validates why I’m so passionate about this way of eating.
I’ve followed a low carb eating plan for the past 23 years and changed my career in my 30’s to re-train as a nutritionist so I could share it with others, which I’ve done for the past 12 years.
I might well be low carb’s biggest fan.
Thanks to low carb I’ve been able to maintain my original 30kg weight loss for 23 years as well as lose the 40kgs I gained across two pregnancies. I’ve seen amazing results with clients as well.
Here are five reasons why I believe low carb truly is the best way of eating for weight loss and maintenance:
1. It’s DELICIOUS
Mayonnaise, pesto, bacon, cheese, nuts, bread, wraps, delicious meats and seafood, veges and dairy foods are just some of the options on a low carb plan. Need I say more?
Real food with maximum flavour.
2. It’s SATIATING: You won’t feel hungry
When you eat the correct balance of protein and healthy fats with each meal, you feel full and satisfied (think about how long you stay full after a meal of bacon and eggs.) This is because your blood sugar levels are stable throughout the day and healthy fats provide a long-burning source of energy.
3. It’s EASY
The explosion in popularity of keto and low carb eating has seen lots of new products on the shelves. Low carb bread, pasta, rice and wrap alternatives are now available from the supermarket. There’s even a new potato that is lower in carbs. Cauliflower makes a great rice alternative and you can buy it already chopped up. There are several online stores specializing in low carb products ranging from chips and chocolate to cake mixes and candy.
You can easily get a low carb version of almost anything your heart desires.
4. It’s SUSTAINABLE
Whatever you do to lose weight, you need to continue doing (in a modified way) if you want to keep the weight off. This is why diets don’t work! If you don’t enjoy what you are eating, the minute you go back to old habits and eating patterns, you will go back to your old weight.
I know low carb is sustainable for life because I’ve done it for 23 years and many of my clients have stayed on track for several years now too.
5. It WORKS
This is the most important thing of all! If low carb didn’t work, I wouldn’t be in business.
In addition to fat loss, my clients have reported better energy levels, less inflammation and much better digestion and gut health.
I am so blessed to be able to share this powerful way of eating and see the way it can transform lives. As one of my clients said to me: “This really is the holy grail of eating.”
If you want to give low carb a try, click here to get my sample low carb 5-day food plan, as well as 5 delicious low carb recipes.
Sprinkle Some Magic: Unleashing Your Creativity with a Cake Kit
Are you ready to unleash your inner cake artist? With a cake kit, you can sprinkle some magic onto your baking creations and bring your wildest confectionery dreams to life. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker looking to elevate your skills, a cake kit is the perfect tool to help you tap into your creativity and create show-stopping desserts.
Imagine having all the ingredients, decorations, and step-by-step instructions in one convenient package. No more worrying about gathering all the necessary supplies or searching for that perfect recipe. With a cake kit, everything you need is at your fingertips, making the baking process a breeze.
Not only does a cake kit save you time and effort, but it also allows you to experiment with different flavors, designs, and techniques. From themed birthday cakes to elegant wedding creations, the possibilities are endless. So why limit yourself to store-bought cakes when you can proudly showcase your own edible masterpieces?
Get ready to embark on a delicious and artistic journey with a cake kit. Let your imagination run wild and watch as your cakes become the center of attention at any gathering. With a little sprinkle of magic, you'll be amazed at what you can create.
Benefits of using a cake kit and a cake mix
1. Convenience and Time-saving
One of the major benefits of using a cake kit is the convenience it offers. With all the ingredients and decorations pre-measured and included in the kit, you don't have to spend time searching for individual items at the grocery store. This saves you both time and effort, allowing you to focus on the fun part – decorating your cake!
Additionally, a cake kit provides you with step-by-step instructions, eliminating the need to scour the internet for recipes and tutorials. Everything you need to know is right there in the kit, making the baking process smooth and stress-free.
2. Unlock Your Creativity
Using a cake kit doesn't mean you have to compromise on creativity. In fact, it can be a catalyst for unleashing your artistic side. With a wide variety of designs and decorations to choose from, a cake kit allows you to experiment and explore different styles.
You can customize your cake mix with various colors, shapes, and patterns, and even add your own unique touches. Whether you're creating a whimsical birthday cake or an elegant wedding masterpiece, a cake kit provides you with the tools and inspiration to let your imagination run wild.
3. Perfect for All Skill Levels
Whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete novice, a cake kit is suitable for all skill levels. For beginners, it provides a structured approach to baking and decorating, with clear instructions and pre-measured ingredients. This helps build confidence and ensures a successful outcome, even for those who are new to the world of baking.
For experienced bakers, a cake kit offers the opportunity to experiment with new techniques and designs. It provides a solid foundation to build upon, allowing you to push the boundaries of your creativity and take your skills to the next level.
Tips for decorating cakes with a cake kit
Now that you're familiar with the benefits of using a cake kit, let's dive into some tips and tricks for decorating your cakes like a pro.
1. Plan Ahead
Before starting your cake decorating journey, take some time to plan out your design. Look through the instructions provided in the cake kit and visualize how you want your finished cake to look. Consider the color scheme, the placement of decorations, and any additional elements you want to incorporate.
By planning ahead, you can ensure a cohesive and visually appealing cake that meets your expectations. It also helps you stay organized throughout the decorating process, preventing any last-minute surprises.
2. Practice Piping
Piping is an essential skill in cake decorating, and a cake kit often includes piping bags and tips to help you achieve professional-looking designs. Practice different piping techniques on a separate surface before applying them to your cake.
Start with simple designs and gradually work your way up to more intricate patterns. Remember to apply consistent pressure on the piping bag to ensure even lines and shapes. With practice, you'll soon be piping beautiful flowers, borders, and personalized messages onto your cakes.
3. Experiment with Flavors and Fillings
A cake kit not only provides you with the basics of cake decorating but also allows you to explore different flavors and fillings. Don't be afraid to deviate from the suggested recipe and add your own twist to the cake.
Consider incorporating flavored syrups, fruit fillings, or even layers of different cake flavors. This will not only enhance the taste of your cake but also add an element of surprise and delight for those enjoying it.
DIY cake kit vs. professional cake decorator
While a cake kit offers numerous advantages, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of using one versus hiring a professional cake decorator.
DIY Cake Kit
Using a cake kit gives you the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands. It allows you to personalize your cake and control every aspect of the decorating process. It's a great option for those who enjoy baking as a hobby and want to showcase their creativity.
However, it's worth noting that creating a professional-looking cake requires practice and patience. While a cake kit provides the tools and instructions, achieving flawless results may take time, especially for beginners. If you're prepared to invest the effort into honing your skills, a DIY cake kit can be a rewarding experience.
Professional Cake Decorator
On the other hand, hiring a professional cake decorator ensures a polished and expertly crafted cake. Professionals have years of experience and knowledge, allowing them to create stunning designs that leave a lasting impression.
If you have a special occasion or a specific design in mind that requires intricate details, a professional cake decorator can bring your vision to life. They have access to a wide range of techniques and tools, which may be challenging to replicate with a cake kit alone.
However, it's important to consider the cost and availability of professional cake decorators. They may require advanced booking and have a higher price range compared to using a cake kit. Additionally, the personal touch and sense of accomplishment that come with creating your own cake may be missing.
Conclusion: Embrace your creativity with a cake kit
In conclusion, a cake kit is a fantastic tool for unleashing your creativity and creating beautiful, customized cakes. It offers convenience, saves time, and provides a platform for experimentation and self-expression.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, a cake kit allows you to tap into your artistic side and create cakes that are not only delicious but visually stunning. With a little sprinkle of magic and the right tools at your disposal, you'll be amazed at what you can achieve.
So, don't hold back! Embrace your creativity, grab a cake kit, and let your imagination soar. Your friends and family will be in awe of your edible masterpieces, and you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that each cake is a reflection of your talent and passion. Happy baking!
Times Article
https://www.times.co.nz/tag/mare-van-der-berg/
Thankful to be included in this prestige news article!
Foodstuffs Emerging Supplier- Semi Finalist
A few months ago I saw an entry to the Foodstuffs Emerging Supplier competition and thought, why the heck not!
Now this is a competition worth its weight in gold! With an amazing reputation and foodies and entrepreneurs entering from all over NZ the entries are huge! With one of the prizes being a spot on all New World shelves in the North Island in the mix… why would you not enter?
Among others you get access to information, marketing and data! Gosh, this is almost better than winning $50k!
Knowledge is power in the end!
Anyway, so off I went and completed my paperwork, sent off the neccessary information and waited!!
To be notified of being a semi- finalist was absolutely amazing! Truly inspiring to know that what I am doing is going somewhere! Someone is looking and seeing and acknowledging!
Unfortunately, it came at the worst time for me! I was scheduled for some horrible surgery! Not only have I been dealing with the side effects of this issue for two years but I have always known at some point this little bugger would have to be removed and I would need a Craniotomy! Yes- you read that correct, in fact I had 2 within 5 days of each other as I had a CSF leak coming out of my nose while still in hospital!
So, this amazing humbling news came at the worst time for me and my family! We were stretched and pulled to our limits, the kids were all over the place and I was not in any space to mentally deal with it! I was not prepaired to have my head chopped open, twice!
So, needless to say, I didnt get any further other than a semi- finalist! I fumbled and slacked through the next phase, a video presentation and my mind was not with it, not were it should of been and it is what it is! There is nothing I can do about it now but go - what if? And thats not how I roll!!
So, from me, sitting on the couch outside soaking up some much needed TLC from the little bit of sun thats left over from today I am so thankfull for officialy being 13 days post op from the second round, stitches are out and Im having a realy good recovery, except for the issues I knew I would have going into this, permanent issues, Im learning to deal with them, one interesting step at a time, the new niggles are healing and some are starting to look better and I should make a full recovery from!
I am thankfull to have been a part of the Foodstuffs Emerging Supplier competition, it showed me what to expect, what to work on and where I am lacking and slacking!! Truly a humbeling experience in its own right!
To everyone that was part of this journey, weather you helped me with videos, photos or just words of encouragement, you are all an incredible part of my journey and I thank you from the bottom of my heart and my soul!
Flour & Dough made the NZ Supermarket News magazine!!
A while back I was asked if I wanted to take part in a questionnaire for NZ Supermarket News magazine!
Obviously I said yes!
Have a read here!! ⬇️⬇️⬇️
STEVENS at the heart of every kitchen
Its been awhile since Flour and Dough started popping up on a Stevens store shelf near you! But, it’s been amazing!!
My favorite part of shopping has now become finding a Stevens store, having a look around for where the baking mixes are and well, taking a few selfies! 😝
Can you believe Stevens has been around for 99 years! Gosh… I know! That’s a milestone!!
Recently they celebrated this amazing achievement and to think, Flour and Dough is sitting realy proudly on their 99 year old shelves!
Wow, I am incredibly humbled and proud
With Christmas now ramping up in every direction and gifts on the minds of every kiwi mum! I reckon Stevens is a good place to go and have a look around!
Who doesn’t own something that was baught from Stevens? I just recently replaced a blender… and well, off to Stevens I went!
With the ease of online shopping and deliveries, you can beat the ques and patiently wait for your parcel to arrive, straight to your door!!
You can find all your kitchen accessories, Flour and Dough baking mixes 😆 and more at your nearest Stevens!
Looking for a gift … head down to Flo & Frankie
It feels like Christmas has hit early!
Home life has become chaotic, school fundraisers are coming and going realy fast, school holidays are creeping up on me and the best part, the sun keeps popping out more and more!!
As most of you know, we love a good BBQ, we do it differently, we do it on open coles patiently waiting for the fire to die down and make the perfect coles to BBQ on!
For us, its always some sort of meat a realy good wholesome salad and well, a Beer Bread of sorts!
One of my favorite ways to do the Beer Bread is to make it on the fire!
I’ve never been able to get a photo of this, hopefully this year, it will get done! The recipe is tricky, as there is no temperature, no exact cooking time! I make up a batch, grease out the black cast iron pot ( potjie pot) add the dough and wait… see why I don’t realy talk about it- I don’t know how to give you the directions! But, it’s amaaaaazing! The extra butter, from the greased sides is delicious, the smokey vibes from the “potjie” gives it the perfect BBQ feeling and the fact that hubby makes it…. Well that’s priceless!
Last yeat I did a realy big drop that went straight to Flo & Frankie in all their stores in their gifting section! I am so proud and humbled to be part of such an iconic store, working with their team and being part of Flo and Frankie, is just amazing!
This year, we are doing it again, bigger and better! I am dropping more stock, more of the goodness and they have 2 more stores added to the mix! So thats more for you to choose from and hopefully closer to home!
Added to the Flo and Frankie range will be our Chewy Chocolate Brownie baking mix and also the Fudgy White Blondie baking mix!
All these baking mixes make perfect gifts for yourself or for someone special for a christmas gift!
Head down to your nearest Flo and Frankie store for some great christmas gifts, beautiful clothes and of course Flour and Dough baking mixes from November!
Xxx
Flour & Dough meet stickerdot
A few months ago I launched our very first Vanilla Cake gift set, which included a vanilla cake mix nz made, but you can alter it to make cupcakes or even a chocolate cake! A chocolate cake mix, a chocolate cupcake baking mix, a vanilla cake mix or vanilla cupcake baking mix - all in one? All you have to do is choose! How cool is that?
I wanted to have a all inclusive cake mix and one that would be easy and versatile to add to the Flour and Dough baking mixes range!
I had the idea, I had the launch plan, I had the all so delicious cake mix recipe, I had it all, so I thought…. How was I going to put this all together that it actually looks as good as it is too eat?
I needed something to “add” to the design element, to round off the design that I also had! So, in came Stickerdot!
Not only did Stickerdot supply me with the stickers I needed to glue it all together, they even sent over a ton of samples for my next bright ideas! Now thats pretty smart, I reckon!
The perfect cake kits are now available for you to send to someone special! Weather is be for a treat you are baking for a friend or a birthday gift for the very special baker needing a all in one baking kit to make life easier and less messy!
This baking kit is completely full proof and comes with almost everything you need to make a delicious cake or cupcake, cake mix, check, sprinkles, check, piping bag, check, icing nozzle, check, recipe card - with tips and tricks, check and even a pretty handy free gift!
All you have to do is take out your cake mix, pour out the ingredients, add wet ingredients from your pantry and bake it! The perfect baking kit nz made, by you, the easy way!
Have a look at our Cake mix baking kit and grab yours for the next special occasion!
So, if your ever in the need of some “glue” to keep it all together, go have a chat to the team at Stickerdot and I am sure you wont be sorry!
Love Mare’
Flo and Frankie stock drop
I am very excited to share that after months of waiting, we have finally been welcomed into the amazing world of Flo and Frankie!
Who doesn’t own a Flo dress? It seriously is one of New Zealand’s greatest wardrobe staples ever made! Every women out there has a crown embedded on her head whens she struts her stuff in one of these! Now, to have my brand associated with this, well, I could not be more empowered and thankful to the group of wonderful ladies who have made this possible.
I am proud to be associated with an iconic brand that empowers a women just by getting dressed in the mornings!
Here’s to Flo and Frankie and Flour and Dough for teaming up to rule the world! ( I can dream, right? )
NZ ARTISAN AWARDS - WE GOT A SILVER !!
Our Beer Bread has done it again!
I am not sure if you remember the award we got for the beer bread? This award was won in June 2022! To say I was excited would be a slight understatement! I did alot of happy dances, weird dances, squeals and child hugging! I honestly, wished and hoped, but put it out of my mind as much as possible, to make the shock of not getting it more bearable! Well, it worked, and the Oregano Garlic and Sage beer bread, got a bronze Outstanding Food Producer Award!
So, when I found the NZ ARTISAN AWARDS online, I thought, oh what the heck, lets try again and see if the first award was not a fluke! WELL IT MOST DEFINITELY WAS NOT!!!
I absolutely cannot believe, this time around this little bugger got a SILVER! I mean, a silver, that is a second place!
Not only did they have their biggest year of entries, but they had to extend to make place for more entries and even pushed out the date for the announcements! It was nail bitting indeed!
This time around, on the day of the winner announcements, I was refreshing my emails every other hour! the anticipation was waaaaaay to much for me! Just past 4pm they eventually made the call and sent out the emails!
SILVER….I GOT A SILVER FOR OREGANO GARLIC AND SAGE BEER BREAD!
This is the baking mix that, from day one, I said will be in the range. It was the baking mix that I built the range around! It’s incredibly humbling to have this specific beer bread be the one that has made it!
The one that we make allot, dream up new ideas from and the one that my kids never complain about or get some random “allergy” too! Bring on summer and endless BBQ’s with this beer bread as our favorite side dish!
I can only thank you, you as clients, clients that have turned into friends and some of you have even become my go to for discussing ideas! I thank you all for the part you have played in getting me this far!
Competitive eater indulging in baking mixes
Nela Zisser having a go at droolworthy baking mixes
I have been stalking Nela for months, in pure awe of what she eats, how fast she does it and then still smiles when she is done!
I built up the courage and decided to ask her to show case some of Flour and Dough baking mixes. In hindsight I should of asked her ages ago, not only was she friendly but pretty awesome too!
I was a bit skeptical to send her gluten free bread so decided on the Beer Breads, Chocolate Brownies and Blondies! We decided on a date, a little giveaway and off I went to bake!
NEVER, in my mind did I think she would eat ALL the bread! HAHA But she did! Two loaves of bread completely demolished and then nearly all of the chocolate brownies and blondies too!
If you are looking to find a real time review and watch the master of competitive eating in action head on over below and see what Im talking about!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgLWPaEN-Qo
WE WON A MEDAL
You know the feeling of anticipation, when you hope you win, but your just not sure because there are so many movers and shakers out there, but then you just hope and cross your fingers and wait….
You know the feeling of anticipation, when you hope you win, but your just not sure because there are so many movers and shakers out there, but then you just hope and cross your fingers and wait….
When I got the email to say CONGRATULATIONS my heart was pounding in my chest and for a second even then, I was like, neh, its a general email, but when I opened it and saw BRONZE I did literal jumps for joy and squeezed the air out of my poor little one!!
Oregano Garlic and Sage Beer Bread, was the first variation I did on this Beer Bread recipe, this is the baking mix that has been with me for everrrr! I cant believe it, I just cant stop smiling and thinking how on earth did this REALY happen!!
When I made the decision to start making baking mixes, I knew this would be my first “ me approved” package! This little baking mix is now also you approved and I can not be happier!
So here’s to many more lazy bbq’s and soup dipping days with this amazing little piece of decadence!
Supie NZ joins the baking mix love
When I asked for empty boxes from a friend that I could re-use, never did I think it would lead to a wonderful partnership!
Upon receiving Supie boxes, great boxes may I add, to re-use, and the absolute rave reviews she gave about the Supie online supermarket, I had to go an have a look for myself!
There are thousands of Supie reviews online and they certainly do deserve them and not only because they have affordable good quality products that are delivered straight to your door, in great boxes, but they now too have Flour and Dough Baking Mixes on their virtual shelves!
Supie prides itself in coming into the market at a cheaper more affordable price. With their veggie and meat boxes being very popular in our house!
Supie boxes are very well priced and the fruit and veg that we recieve have always been fresh! I honestly cannot fault these boxes in anyway! The amount of fruit and veg in these boxes is also realy amazing! Its definately worth its weight!
Flour & Dough baking mixes are now available at Supie nz at Supie prices, what more could you ask for!
The Supie supermarket has our entire range, from Beer Breads, keto bread mixes, gluten free baking mixes, our baking kits and even our best ever brownie baking mix!
The Market NZ joins the Flour and Dough Team
With a world that is uncertain if we will be returning back to “normal” and a question more important is, when will this happen?
I decided to join the online world to help us sell our delicious baking mixes proudly made in NZ. Flour & Dough baking mixes are now available on the market NZ.
The best keto baking mixes are now easily accessible to you under one shopping experience. Bread mixes, Beer bread mixes, keto bread mixes, gluten free bread mixes, brownie mixes, sugar cookie mix and even cake mixes/ baking kits! All this available on the market nz and even more alluring now that they have the market club offers!
The Market NZ has given you access to buying all our baking kits and baking mixes in one easy convenient place!
RNZ talks Flour and Dough baking mixes
When Ellie from rnz radio contacted me to ask if I would like to be included in an interview regarding small businesses, to say I was nervous is a very small understatement! Of course I agreed!
We spoke about my business Flour & Dough and how it came about, why I started making baking mixes and where my bread mixes ideas came from and how they tasted!
Being on rnz live was quite a treat for me, being able to talk about something that is mine, and something that I am proud of made the talk about artisan baking and artisan baking mixes so much more special!
Ellie from rnz radio was amazing to talk to and in the end we spoke way more than what we should have and allot more editing was done to get into the time frame than either of us imagined!
Thanks again for the time and effort you put into this!
Listen to rnz live here and hear how we talk baking mixes, bread mixes and just a good old chat!