Mali Bakes produces some of Melbourne's most loved, brightly coloured, and delightfully decorated cakes. The cake studio in Thornbury, which is now accessible via appointment only, seamlessly blends seasonal produce, creative flavours and classic baking techniques to create some of the most coveted layered cakes in town. Mali Bakes was founded during one of Melbourne's many lockdowns by Patchanida Chimkire, proving that there are a few good things to have come from those COVID days. Everything is made from scratch using premium ingredients such as Heilala Vanilla, Gippsland Jersey Butter, organic flour from Wholegrain Milings, Burd's Farm free-range eggs and Callebaut chocolate. Patchanida's cakes are infused with the colours and artistic sensibilities of Thailand, with the word Mali, meaning jasmine in Thai. With her flavours, she plays into the warmth and pleasure of nostalgic childhood memories. There are a plethora of vegan and regular flavours to choose from. Go for traditional options such as strawberries and cream or chocolate and raspberry, or more creative flavours including brown sugar, miso caramel and apple, coffee and blueberry, and olive oil, ricotta and blackberry. Custom cakes are available through the online store and can be picked up between Wednesday and Saturday. Unfortunately, the beloved 'Saturday slices' are not currently available; however, there will likely be pop-up bake sales, so keep an eye out for those. Images: Supplied.
