We’re back with a new season! And Paola Velez, one of our favorite guests, is back, too. Paola is a pastry chef and co-founder of Bakers Against Racism, the global bake sale that raised over $2.5 million for social justice causes. She released her debut baking book, “Bodega Bakes: Recipes for Sweets and Treats Inspired by My Corner Store,” earlier this month.

Paola tells host Jessie Sheehan why her book is a love letter to her Dominican heritage and New York City roots, and she shares stories about growing up in the Bronx and visiting her local bodega and the Stella D’oro factory. She also explains how her plantain sticky buns were inspired by her mom’s love for Guy Fieri, and she walks Jessie through the recipe for her signature treat. 

Thank you to King Arthur Baking Company, Kerrygold, California Prunes, and Ghirardelli for supporting our show. 

Jessie Sheehan’s new cookbook, “Salty, Cheesy, Herby, Crispy Snackable Bakes,” and tour.

Visit cherrybombe.com for subscriptions, show transcripts, and tickets to upcoming events. 

More on Paola: Instagram, Bakers Against Racism, website, “Bodega Bakes” cookbook
More on Jessie: Instagram, “Salty, Cheesy, Herby, Crispy Snackable Bakes cookbook