THE BAKE with Kareem Youngblood: A Celebration of Sweets, Storytelling & Soul
From the stoop in Crown Heights to national TV and now back where it all began — Kareem Youngblood is bringing it full circle with THE BAKE, a live dessert experience like no other. We sat down with Kareem to talk about the event, his journey, and why this night means so much.
Q: What is THE BAKE, and how did the idea come about?
A: THE BAKE is a live dessert demo, tasting, and podcast experience with storytelling, comedy, and a little bit of truth-telling magic. It’s like if a stand-up show, a food event, and a TED Talk had a baby — and that baby came with cake.
The idea came from wanting to create something that blends everything I love: baking, real talk, making people laugh, and sharing the behind-the-scenes journey that most people don’t get to see. I wanted a space where folks could eat, feel, and be inspired — all at the same time.
Q: How does THE BAKE reflect your journey as a baker and creator?
A: This event is my journey. From struggling to make ends meet while building my brand, to being on shows like Sugar Rush, Chopped Sweets, and Spring Baking Championship, everything I’ve done has been about creating something from nothing.
I’m not classically trained. I didn’t go to culinary school. I built The Cupka'ak Bar from scratch — literally — and I’ve worn every hat along the way: baker, designer, delivery guy, marketer, everything. THE BAKE is my way of showing people what’s possible when you stay true to your vision, even when it’s messy or hard.
Q: Why did you choose NY Cake as the venue for this event?
A: Because NY Cake is where it all started for me. 11 years ago, I walked into their old store and spent every dollar I had on baking tools. I didn’t even know what I was really doing yet — I just knew I had to try. That place sparked my creative passion and gave me the tools (literally and figuratively) to build the life I have now.
So to come back all these years later and throw my first live event there? That’s full-circle energy. I’m emotional just thinking about it.
Q: What can guests expect from the event experience?
A: Expect desserts that hit, stories that go deep, laughs that sneak up on you, and a whole lot of love in the room. You’ll get a live baking demo of one of my top desserts from Spring Baking Championship, plus tastings, an open bar, giveaways, and the taping of my live podcast.
It’s not just a food event. It’s a celebration. And it’s my belated 40th birthday — so trust me, I’m bringing the energy.
Q: What makes this more than just a food event?
A: Because this is about the journey. It’s about telling the truth — not just the highlight reel. We’re talking grief, struggle, being broke, building a dream, losing people, finding yourself. All while sharing sweet bites and good vibes.
People come for the cake, but they leave with something deeper.
Q: Can you tell us about the 'Shop + Win' section and how people can get involved?
A: Yes! During the event, you can shop baking supplies from NY Cake for yourself, or buy something to donate to a young aspiring baker. Every purchase enters you into a raffle to win a $150 NY Cake gift card toward a class. No purchase minimum — I just want people to feel part of it.
We’ll also be giving away Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, Sugarfina candy gift sets, and other surprises — no purchase necessary to enter those giveaways. It’s my way of saying thank you and making the night extra special.
Q: Why was it important for you to include giveaways and a way to give back?
A: Because I remember being the kid who couldn’t afford half the tools I needed. I’ve always believed in "baking it forward" — if I have a platform now, I want to use it to create access, inspire, and uplift others. That’s the whole point.
And I just love giving gifts. Especially when it’s things people wouldn’t expect — like Ray-Bans and candy and cake. It’s fun and it’s full of heart.
Q: What do you hope people walk away with after attending THE BAKE?
A: I want people to feel seen. I want them to leave full — not just from the dessert, but from the energy in the room. I hope they walk away feeling like they can keep going, keep dreaming, and that their story matters too.
Q: Any advice for aspiring bakers or creatives who want to build something from the ground up?
A: Start where you are. Use what you have. Don’t wait to be perfect or polished. Be loud about your ideas, even if they’re messy. And protect your dream like it’s the only thing keeping you alive — because sometimes it is.
THE BAKE: Live Demo, Tasting + Podcast
📍 NY Cake, NYC
🗓️ May 10, 2025
🎟️ Tickets + Info
