Need a pick-me-up during your long day at work, mom? Or do the kids need a self-esteem boost before a big game? Then you deserve a Believe-in-Yourself Banana Muffin or a Champion Chocolate Peanut Butter Crispie.
That's the idea behind Fresh Baked Confidence, an Ann Arbor-based bakery that whips up tasty, preservative-free snacks packed with inspirational messages. Founder Melissa Sundermann got the idea for these empowering eats when her daughter declared she'd do well at her next gymnastics meet because her teammate fed her "some imaginary fresh-baked confidence," the company's site says.
The healthy snacks are packed with healthy ingredients, like whole wheat flour, flax meal, applesauce and oat bran, but taste just like classically scrumptious muffins and cookies.
"Fresh Baked Confidence was co-founded by two moms – both physicians – who saw a need in the marketplace for healthful snack alternatives that didn't contain preservatives," says Sundermann, who heads up marketing, "and that also conveyed a message of empowerment." Her co-creator is Gingie Gauger, the baker. The company offers 11 types of treats and two gluten-free and vegan snacks, Sundermann says.
And thus far, feedback from customers as been "tremendous," Sundermann says.
"We have actually been told some of our products are 'addictive,'" she says. "People are very excited to see a product that is unique in that it combines healthy fuel for the body and mind into one single product."
So next time you're feeling a bit down, take a bite of some Zippy-Zappy Zucchini Bread – and take on the day. Order these locally produced goodies and holiday gift baskets at the Fresh Baked Confidence website, or visit the Fresh Baked Confidence Facebook page. You can also buy them at Ann Arbor locales like the U-M student union and Wide World Sports Complex.
