A registered nurse in Maryland has transformed her childhood love for baking into a burgeoning enterprise, and she is now vying for a national title that could significantly impact her future.
Francesca Dominguez, who moved from Texas to Maryland three years ago, decided to pursue her passion at the age of 40.
In August, she officially launched DOUGHminguez Confections from her home kitchen.
Nurse Transforms Passion into Thriving Baking Business, Competing for National Title
“I didn’t want to let another decade slip by without chasing something I truly love,” she expressed.
Baking has become a wonderful outlet for Dominguez, providing her with stress relief as a full-time nursing professional. Her colleagues often appreciate the delightful treats she shares with them.
Her husband, Bill, is her biggest cheerleader and serves as her primary taste-tester, although she laughs about needing a more impartial opinion.
“I joke with him that I require an unbiased reviewer since he seems to enjoy everything I bake,” said Dominguez with a chuckle.
Her lively 10-year-old Boston Terrier, Panda, serves as the inspiration for her signature cookie creation.
“It’s a white chocolate chip cookie incorporating chocolate sandwich cookies, topped with a mini chocolate sandwich and a drizzle of white chocolate,” Dominguez explained.
At a recent holiday market held at the National Harbor, she showcased an array of cookie flavors including Strawberry Crunch, S’mores, and the Cardiomegaly Crinkle, a green Grinch-themed cookie adorned with a heart.
While expanding her business, Dominguez stumbled upon the Greatest Baker Competition online. The contest offers financial assistance to small businesses and families impacted by childhood cancer through the Andrew McDonough B-Plus Foundation.
This initiative resonates with Dominguez on multiple levels—she is both a passionate baker and a dedicated healthcare professional. Additionally, her father was diagnosed with prostate cancer during the pandemic.
“As a nurse, I witness the hardships families face in the hospital. They want to be by the side of their loved ones battling cancer, yet they also grapple with financial obligations,” Dominguez remarked. “This organization truly makes a difference.”
On Christmas Day, she advanced in the national competition. To progress to the next stage, she needs to remain in the top five, with voting closing on New Year’s Eve at 7 p.m. PCT.
“I’m eager to stay in the competition for as long as I can. Fingers and toes crossed!” said Dominguez.
You can cast a free daily vote for Dominguez here.
The final winner, to be revealed in February, will receive $10,000 along with a feature in “Baked from Scratch” magazine. Dominguez hopes this exposure will help her elevate her business beyond the confines of her home kitchen.
Regardless of the contest outcome, she notes that the most fulfilling part has been the overwhelming support she has received.
“It has been incredibly heartwarming to feel encouraged, especially by my family back in Texas,” Dominguez said.
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