A Stop By Sweet Tammy’s in Squirrel Hill
Baking without milk might not seem like a good idea to those of us who grew up loving milk chocolate cookies and traditional cakes and brownies, but Sweet Tammy’s in Squirrel Hill has set out to debunk that baking myth. As Pittsburgh’s only certified Parve (non-dairy) kosher bakery, co-owner Daniel Berkowitz explained that baking without milk definitely does not detract from taste.
People with milk allergies or those following certain dietary laws will frequent this bakery out of necessity, but I ventured in simply because I’d heard rumors of the excellent chocolate chip cookies and cinnamon rolls within.
As Daniel showed me around Sweet Tammy’s, he elaborated on all of the remodeling work that he and his wife, co-owner and head baker Tamara, have put into renovating the store. Complemented by a beautiful chandelier, the vaulted ceiling gives way to walls that have been refinished and adorned with decorative sconces. The custom-built display case acts as a focal point for the bakery, ensuring that Tammy’s baked goods take their rightful place at center stage. In addition to the display case and counter, Sweet Tammy’s has a nice sitting area where customers can enjoy Tammy’s creations with either a cold drink or an espresso.
Although the setting and presentation is top notch here, the real test, of course, had to be with the cinnamon roll that I had elected to try. Upon my initial inspection, I noticed two things about the treat that I believe are imperative to an outstanding cinnamon roll: it was large and there was no lack of frosting.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I had my doubts about Sweet Tammy’s product. The entire no milk idea had been something I was having trouble getting past. However, as soon as I bit into this cinnamon roll, my doubts were completely erased. The pastry was nice and sticky and not too dense at the center. The frosting tasted creamy and sweet, without being so sugary that it overwhelmed the taste buds.
If you’re ever on Murray Avenue, I suggest that you stop by Sweet Tammy’s and see what non-dairy baking is all about. With taste this good, chances are you won’t even miss the milk!