The Black Perspective
Being the change I want to see in the world one cookie at a time.
For me, baking has never just been about sugar and flour. It’s about representation, heritage, and joy.
Growing up I rarely saw myself represented in daily life.
I never saw princesses that looked like me, I didn’t see Black women rocking their natural kinks and coils, and I could only experience certain Jamaican treats the odd time my family was able to vacation in Jamaica.
In other words, Black representation was seriously lacking… everywhere.
As I got older, I realized that absence shaped how I viewed and carried myself for years. It sparked a desire to change that narrative for the next generation.
Through The Dessert Artist I create characters that “look like me”.
That’s why you’ll find Black Santa at Christmas time, sugar cookies of a girl with an afro or custom cake toppers of a Black client with their appropriate hair type. As well as items from my heritage like Petite (Jamaican) Patties, rum cake, and spice bun.
I take a lot of pride in knowing that my designs and flavour choices resonate with the Black community and those looking to explore and experience Black culture.
Because newsflash: you don’t need to be Black to enjoy a Black Santa cookie.
And the secret formula is….
Just kidding! I would never give up my trade secrets that easily. Here’s what I can tell you though.
The Dessert Artist is a baked goods and confectionery producer that provides bespoke edible creations that delight the senses for a variety of occasions (e.g., weddings, holidays, corporate events, annual family gatherings, etc.).
You can order from me with confidence knowing that I only use quality ingredients. You’ll never see me swap real butter for shortening just to cut costs.
Not to toot my own horn, but in just a few years I’ve been honored with:
- 2025 Bold Spirit Awards – The Big Leap Award
- 2025 Woman of the Year – Rising Star
- 2025 Young Professional of the Year
- 2024 LiftOff pitch competition winner
- Rise Up 2023 pitch competition winner (1,733 applicants across Canada, 24 semi-finalists, 8 winners)
Media features include:
The Person Behind The Buttercream
This is me, no fondant filter and definitely covered in flour.
Who? Rochelle Williams — pastry chef extraordinaire, patty magician, and unapologetic soup hater.
How? I explored my interest in all things sugar through pastry internships in high school and then took the Baking & Pastry Arts Management and Advanced Chocolate & Confectionery Artistry programs at Humber College to refine my skills. After gaining experience in various pastry establishments (like 5-star hotels and mass production bakeries), I discovered a deep passion for the decorative side of baking and recipe development.
Why? As my career progressed, I became increasingly aware of the lack of Black representation in the industry. Even in managerial roles I faced resistance when advocating for Black cuisine and imagery. Frustrated by the inability to drive change within my workplace, I realized that the best way to reshape the narrative was to start my own bakery.
When? My entrepreneurial journey began in late 2020, selling to friends and family, before officially launching The Dessert Artist in 2022 and then sold my first (of many) Petite Patties in June 2023.
The Cupcake Top of Details:
I always have to leave the best for last.
Consider these the quirky sprinkles of my life.
I’m a hobby artist and have painted everything from realistic portraits to abstract pieces (including a mural for Lady Glaze Doughnuts).
Rugby is one of my favourite sports to play (the cleat in the picture is a cake).
I don’t like soup — I think it’s murky water.
I don’t like baking; I bake so I can decorate something beautiful (and delicious).
When you support me, you’re also supporting them
I am a huge believer of community over competition. Whenever possible, I do my best to source my ingredients from other small businesses.
Where I get all my halal meat: https://ammarhalalmeats.com/
The hot sauce brand that gives the spicy beef patty its heat: https://www.bekofoodsinc.com/
Always stocking the Jamaican curry powder I love: https://atozgroceries.com/
Flours, sugars, spices, and so much more! https://www.ayresbakingsupplies.com/
Ready to work together?
If you want baked goods that are as meaningful as they are mouthwatering, you’re in the right place.
