Brain Tumour, Baking, and Resilience — Flour and Dough Featured in My Treat Magazine
My Treat Subscription Boxes featured Flour and Dough in their subscriber magazine — sharing the story behind the brand and the woman who built it. We're reproducing it here with gratitude.
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 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 every aspect of her life. From struggling with balance, hearing loss, and even loss of taste — a devastating blow to a baker — to grappling with the emotional toll of surgeries and treatments, Mare's journey has been 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 while being present for her young family, she discovered solace in nature — in the simple joys of watching hawks soar and calves frolic. Small moments that grounded her when everything else felt uncertain.
Turning Pain Into Purpose
Flour & Dough was Mare's brainchild, born during maternity leave in 2021. Faced with the challenge of balancing motherhood with financial responsibilities, Mare sought a creative outlet that would let her pursue her passion for baking while being present for her children. Inspired by the encouragement of loved ones, Flour & Dough emerged.
Her baking mixes — starting with her beloved Beer Bread — are a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness. With each pouch of mix, Mare poured her heart into crafting simple yet decadent treats that have brought joy to countless homes across New Zealand and Australia.
The Brownie That Started It All
Among Flour & Dough's 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, and packs a serious flavour punch.
"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 — because you just can't beat a good, chewy brownie," Mare says.
And here's her tip for the perfect brownie: "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."
A Brand Built on Heart
Flour & Dough is more than a baking mix company. It's a story of a woman who refused to let a brain tumour, two craniotomies, and the chaos of motherhood stop her from building something beautiful. Every product in the range carries that spirit — made with love, designed to bring joy, and proof that the hardest seasons of life can produce the sweetest results.
Browse the full Flour and Dough range — from keto bread and beer bread to brownies, blondies, and cookie kits. NZ made, delivered to your door anywhere in New Zealand and Australia.