This article was originally published in the McCook Gazette on Dec. 08, 24.
INDIANOLA Neb. - What started as a simple experiment in baking macaroons has quickly turned into a flourishing business for Layne Salas. In 2020, she and her sister Cassa Easter decided to offer these delectable cookies as a gift for Mother's Day on Facebook. Little did they know, their venture would take off in unexpected ways.
"I don't even know how many orders we had, they just kept coming, I just shut it off. It was exciting, but nerve-racking all at the same time," Layne recalls with a smile.
The popularity of their macaroons grew rapidly, leading them to sell their creations at the local farmer’s market and on Facebook. Easter moved from the area but Salas continued baking on her own. Layne's husband, Steven, happily played the role of taste tester. However, with their home kitchen bursting at the seams with four mixers, Layne announced on July 1 that Bleu Flour Bakery would be opening in Indianola.
Mastering the art of making macaroons hasn't been easy for Layne. In the beginning, they sold what they called their "ugly ducklings" at discounted rates due to cracks and imperfections. But now, with experience on their side, their cookies boast fewer mistakes and have become true works of art. Layne now has employees who help with the drive threw drinks and baking. As a mom, she prides herself on the ability to offer flexibility to other working moms.
Special orders for birthdays and weddings have become a regular part of the business, as macaroons are known for their vibrant colors and exciting flavors. As Christmas approaches, Bleu Flour Bakery plans to offer sugar cookie-flavored macaroons, peppermint macaroons, and pistachio macaroons to spread holiday cheer.
While the bakery has expanded beyond their home kitchen, Steven jokes that they also moved to prevent him from eating all the macaroons. His favorite flavor is espresso, and Layne agrees, though she admits that after baking so many, she doesn't indulge as often.
Steven, who works full-time and assists at the bakery when needed, emphasizes that they've undertaken all the construction on their building themselves. Layne clarifies, stating that she takes more of an idea person and supervisor role. Currently, Bleu Flour Bakery only has a drive-thru, but they hope to one day offer a seating area up front.
Construction progress has been intentionally slow due to the bustling drive-thru traffic. Layne says, "We just stay pretty busy here with the drive-thru, the baking part of it. The deliveries and special orders have always been our main focus from the start."
In addition to its famous macaroons, Bleu Flour Bakery offers a full menu of hot, iced, and blended drinks and a variety of treats. including a bacon cheddar scone sandwich. Customers can also purchase t-shirts, sweatshirts, tumblers, and gift certificates.
They are open Monday through Saturday in the mornings, so whether you make a special trip or you are passing through visit the Bleu Flour Bakery, you can’t miss it with the beautiful mural painted by Deonne Hinz, which adorns the side of their building, directing traffic to the drive-thru.
To stay updated on the offerings of Bleu Flour Bakery and pre-order their delightful macaroons and other baked goods, follow them on Facebook. You can also find them at Gary's Super Foods to satisfy your cravings.
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