It began as an effort to save money to buy a Nintendo gaming system. It grew into a business providing good homemade cookies.
When Gaël Gervais of Vankleek Hill was nine, he asked his parents Cynthia and Richard to buy him a Nintendo. But, as is often the case in life, they said no because of the cost. They agreed to give him five dollars per week though, if he helped with household chores.
Then, one day, Gaël had an enterprising idea. He asked to borrow Richard’s mobile phone and called everyone on the contact list and took orders for homemade cookies. Then, he got busy in the kitchen, with the help of his parents to fill all of the orders.
“He was so excited,” Cynthia said about that first big batch of cookies.
Gaël eventually got his Nintendo, but baking cookies continued. By 2024, it had evolved into the Peanut Butter Jam Bakery, specializing in cookies, particularly the popular peanut butter recipe Gaël uses, and other baked treats.
“It’s a family business now,” Cynthia said.
Cynthia, Richard, their daughter, and one of Gaël’s friends help with the work.
Cynthia said Gaël, now 13, is often busy balancing school and baking.
“He’s busy all week preparing for the markets.”
Peanut Butter Jam is a regular vendor at the Vankleek Hill Farmers’ Market, held each Saturday at St-Grégoire school. The cookies are also sold at other events around the area, including the upcoming Vankleek Hill Christmas Home Tour.
And to make sure you get your cookies from Peanut Butter Jam before they are sold out, online orders can be made at https://rcgervais.wixsite.com/peanut-butter-jam.
