Vicky Cakes: An interview with the founder of a black-owned business of a vegan pancake mix and syrups

Today’s interview post is part of my efforts to spotlight black-owned businesses (and POC in general!). You all may recall I posted how to make homemade ice cream cones back in September using the awesome pancake mix by Vicky Cakes. In this post, we are getting to know its founder, Christian Sargent.

Getting to know Christian Sargent of Vicky Cakes Pancake Mix & Waffle Mix

If you could only eat one food/meal for the rest of your life what would it be? I know, I know it sounds super generic – but at FoodieZoolee we like to know!

Christian: This is going to sound super unbelievable but I could eat a Spicy Grilled Chicken Salad every day and be so content! I love salad, it’s so crisp and refreshing!

We know your mother’s recipe inspired you to Vicky Cakes. What is your favorite memory with Ms. Vicky in the kitchen?

Christian: I remember setting the table for every meal. She would have my sisters and I to get the plates, cups, forks and knives out and set each place. It was her way of keeping us in the kitchen together and I loved it!

How do you decide what flavors to develop and what is your favorite?

Christian: When I first decided to launch the business it was going to be with the original mix only but after researching other brands and seeing that no brand had a variety of flavors that weren’t offered only seasonally I decided to source premium ingredients and launch multiple flavors at once. People LOVE options and our bundles are our top sellers!

What has been the most surprising aspect of owning and operating Vicky Cakes?

Christian: The most surprising aspect is seeing the exponential growth and just how much people needed us in the market. From being an authentic Black Owned Business to being woman owned to being a non dairy product we have received so much love and support it’s as if the space was made just for us to come in and bring something different to the market and breakfast industry. Our customers love our products and we have truly earned the tittle of “Best Pancakes Ever”!

What legacy do you hope to leave with your family and those who cook with your brand?

Christian: I want to leave a legacy of family first as well as equal and authentic representation. It’s so simple yet so complex but I know that the more we grow and bring the change we want to see we will be around for many years to come.

Why should customers buy your pancake and waffle mix instead of other brands frequently found in stores?

Christian: Our products are a better option compared to other brands and mixes because we are dairy free, there are no dried powdered milk or eggs in our mixes making it healthier and easier for vegans and customers with dairy allergens to use their non-dairy alternatives in our mixes. Also our products are free of artificial flavors, colors, preservatives and additives. No junk. Ever. And most importantly, we are an authentic brand and recipe based on a real woman who created this recipe out of necessity and it has now become a family favorite because it is delicious and steeped in family tradition!

Where can we find and purchase Vicky Cakes pancake and waffle mix?

Christian: On our website, Walmart.com, and Amazon.com. We are carried in Good Things Grocery in Martindale, TX and Golden Grocers in St. Louis. We are also newly available for wholesale/foodservice through Faire!

What can we look forward to with Vicky Cakes in the next year?

Christian: Growth, growth, and more growth! We look to enter retail if it is the right fit for us but all in all we look to be the #1 selling pancake mix brand in America be it through retail or e-commerce! We also launched our syrup on Black Friday and we also introduced our very own Blueberry Maple Pancake Scented Candle! There’s more to come and we hope you’re at the table with us enjoying the journey to the top!

The Story Behind Vicky Cakes Pancake Mix

Why I personally like Vicky Cakes Pancake & Waffle Mix

The mix has just the right balance of flavor and creates pancakes and waffles of the most optimal texture. These pancakes come out fluffy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside.

It really is so good and there are more ways to use it than just pancakes! As I mentioned, I shared how to make ice cream cones but you can also make donuts and even chocolate chip fritters!

Why supporting black-owned businesses matter

We need to close the racial wealth gap in America. The median wealth for whites is almost $700k while it is barely over $100k for black Americans. THIS IS NOT OKAY! We can help the black community by actively seeking out places of business to support as our go-to spots for goods. This can be food products and restaurants, but even clothing and beauty products.

It creates jobs! Most Black-owned businesses are sole proprietors that don’t make enough to hire staff. This stops growth and we can change that!

It celebrates their culture and serves communities. A black-owned business is one that fosters a sense of pride in the people that live in their community. Be sure to tell people about the businesses owned by POC that you like – help them grow.