An acclaimed bakery is set to make a return to Southington, Connecticut, after closing its previous location in Factory Square last October. Hardcore Sweet Bakery, owned by Jeremy and Nicole Braddock, will open a new store at 90B Center Street, with plans to welcome customers by Valentine’s Day.
The Braddocks are optimistic about their new space, which offers “better visibility” for patrons visiting downtown Southington. The location is strategically positioned near a commuter parking lot, making it accessible to people heading to nearby bars and restaurants. Jeremy Braddock described the site as “awesome” and noted its potential for outdoor seating, stating, “It’s going to be a home run for us.”
The new bakery will allow for a greater variety of offerings. Unlike the previous location, where they faced competition from a neighboring coffee shop, the new setup will enable them to serve coffee and hot drinks. Braddock expressed enthusiasm about enhancing the customer experience, mentioning a vision for a patio with picnic tables to create an inviting atmosphere.
With an aim to employ around 10 people, the Braddocks plan to retain much of their staff from the Factory Square location. The new bakery will feature popular items such as custom cupcakes, stuffed cookies, and an array of unique brownie bars. Braddock highlighted the bakery’s signature items, including cinnamon rolls in flavors like red velvet and gingerbread.
From Humble Beginnings to Acclaimed Bakery
Founded in 2012, Hardcore Sweet Bakery began as a small venture at the Main Street Market in Torrington. Initially, the Braddocks, alongside another couple, operated under a temporary food permit, crafting cupcakes from their own kitchens. Their first appearance was a resounding success, leading to a partnership with a local coffee house that helped them launch a cupcake truck.
“We just thought, ‘Did that just happen?’ That’s how the doors opened for our bakery,” Braddock recounted. This partnership allowed them to expand their operations, ultimately leading to participation in the popular competition Cupcake Wars on the Food Network, which they won. Their success on television helped propel their business forward.
The couple later bought out their partners and established a storefront in Watertown at 619 Main Street. Their bakery has since gained recognition, appearing on shows like Netflix’s Sugar Rush, and continues to thrive with a mix of retail and wholesale operations.
Future Plans and Community Engagement
The Braddocks remain active in the food truck circuit, participating in events across Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts. They also maintain wholesale partnerships with various restaurants, including locations of Maggie McFly’s in Connecticut and Viron Rondo in Cheshire.
In addition to their bakery, the couple recently opened Bubba’s Biscuit Bar in Hudson, New York, with plans to introduce a Hardcore Sweet Bakery there in the future. Braddock indicated that weddings and events make up approximately 30 percent of their business, showcasing their ability to cater to various occasions.
The couple’s contrasting roles contribute to the bakery’s success. Braddock handles the creative aspects, from cake decoration to truck deliveries, while Nicole manages marketing and communications. “We are like yin and yang,” Braddock said. “It’s just been a wild cupcake ride that has not slowed down.”
As the Braddocks prepare for their new location in Southington, they are excited about the opportunity to engage with a broader audience and enhance their offerings, reaffirming their commitment to quality and community connection.
