Written by Mia Tandingan
Ever wondered how a cookie could celebrate heritage and comfort all at once? Here, at Kurated Kultura, we share Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPIs) businesses’ stories. Chipidee Cookies is a perfect example. More than just a bakery, they’re a celebration of culture, comfort, and creativity. Founded by Alex, a passionate Filipino-American baker, Chipidee Cookies redefines a classic cookie with a touch of Asian flavors. Since 2018, Chipidee Cookie has been dedicated to reimagining the classic cookie by introducing a diverse range of flavors that reflect different Asian heritages.
Chipidee Cookie’s latest offering, “THE MOTHA” are lactation cookies, carefully crafted specifically for Kurated Kultura’s postpartum kits to support new parents in their lactation journey. Now available for pre-order and monthly delivery!
Merienda with the Makers
“Merienda”, meaning “afternoon light snack” in Filipino, introduces Alex as the first guest of the Merienda with the Maker series, which features interviews with different AANHPI makers while they share what merienda they’re enjoying! Alex and Alexa, who met at a CrossFit gym, share a deep connection rooted in Filipino culture. Their collaboration today shows their dedication to celebrating and promoting their culture.
Alex’s journey as a Filipino business owner is deeply rooted in his pride for his heritage. While promoting his “Filipinoness” through unique and comforting cookies like the popular guava cookie, Alex celebrates his roots and his commitment to feel-good treats. He also embraces the challenges of running a business by staying motivated and reminding himself of the joy in creating something new and having fun with it. His love for baking began at a young age, where cooking served as a comforting escape.
Meanwhile, Alexa, founder of Kurated Kultura, shares a similar mission. As a Filipina business owner, Alexa grew up in a diverse community but faced challenges adapting to a predominately different environment during high school. She now raises her kids in the Bay Area and started Kurated Kultura to help her children embrace their Filipino heritage. Her business is dedicated to sharing culture and supporting Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AAPI/AANHPI) businesses. Her commitment to conscious consumerism is clear through Kurated Kultura’s unique offerings. It is the only business providing Chipidee Cookie’s mini-sized cookies, using sustainably sourced compostable packaging, and has shipping options of mailing the cookies across the United States.
Join us in exploring Asian-owned businesses and supporting eco-friendly practices, both Chipidee Cookies and Kurated Kultura offer unique ways to engage with AAPI heritage while practicing DEI and sustainability!
Discover the story behind Chipidee Cookies in the Merienda with the Maker video here. Enjoy their Instagram Live conversation for a fun, comforting, and relatable experience that feels like chatting with friends.
Photo credit: Jasmine Toy
