Love & Cookies, a popular bakery in Lakeway, has expanded its cookie empire with a second location on South Lamar. Owner and baker Ashley Cameron has already gathered a loyal following with her irresistible treats, including award-winning cookie dough (that’s also available at HEB) and that’s sure to grow with shop number two, adorned with a cute blush pink heart over the front door. The handle is a giant spoon.
The brand was born from a bond between a mother and her son. "When my son Charlie was diagnosed with Kawasaki Disease (the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children), we started baking my grandmother’s cookie recipe regularly," Ashley shares. "We were using the best possible ingredients to make sure he was eating really high-quality cookies. The whole experience was really therapeutic for us to create something joyful during our day. His younger siblings, Carlyle and Hank, joined in the fun, and our kitchen became our haven."
The business grew organically from these family moments. "What began as a healing journey with my children ignited a spark within me,” she says, "I wanted to share our family's story with the world, spreading awareness about Kawasaki Disease while also spreading joy through our cookies."
Family is evident in every recipe and every cookie is named after a family member. "I cooked and baked with my great-grandmother Audrey, grandmother Betty-Jean, and my mom Susie," Ashley says, adding, “Our seasonal Lemon Lavender flavor, known as the Audrey, after my great-grandmother, is inspired by Texas Hill Country spring. My personal favorite cookie is our Betty Jean, named after my grandmother, with vanilla, chocolate chips, and pecans." We also spotted cookies adorned with longhorns, perfect for those seeking spirited treats at the start of football season.
For aspiring entrepreneurs in Austin Ashley confesses, “The late nights, early mornings, and time away are worth it,” and says what must be a signature line, that "No matter the journey, life is what you bake it."
In addition to spreading joy through fresh baked goods, Love & Cookies is committed to giving back to the community. "Our mission is not just to sell the best cookies, but to sprinkle a little love and awareness about Kawasaki Disease into the lives of everyone we meet," Ashley says. Love & Cookies supports the Kawasaki Kids Foundation, donating proceeds and supporting programs like the Backpack Program that directly benefit children and families affected by the disease.
The new location, at 1701 S Lamar Blvd has also partnered with Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, so visitors will find it a welcome escape from the Texas summer heat and a charming neighborhood spot to cool off in all summer long.