Our Story
Passion for good food is one part of the story...
We are Ken Hardy and Jur van Hoorn, chefs and owners of the American Baking Company (ABC). ABC started as the result of the melding of two simultaneous dreams – a life-long passion for good food and the quest for love. As a result, we believe a little of that passion and love is infused throughout our creations – and that helps make our products even more delicious.
Love is the other
In 2006, Ken and Jur met in Los Angeles. As they got to know each other, they delighted in discovering their mutual passion for cooking – especially baking – while entertaining their international cadre of eclectic friends. As friends and family continued to rave about their desserts, dinner parties and spirited cocktail hours, both Ken and Jur began to understand that they possessed a unique set of culinary skills that seemed to provide a great sense of joy to others.In 2008, as they became more fully ensconced in their relationship, they began to dream about establishing a catering company, bakery or eatery in Los Angeles. Fate would disrupt their plans as Jur would have return to the Netherlands to help care for his ailing parents. Immigration issues quickly followed when Jur tried to return to United States. Since Jur and Ken are not yet allowed to marry in the United States, it became clear that the couple would have to make a decision. If they wanted to remain together, Ken would have to move to the Netherlands since this was a country that would legally recognize their relationship.In 2009, Ken and Jur made the leap. Ken left Los Angeles and they relocated to The Hague, where they would have a chance to build a life together. Their passion for cooking and baking – along with Ken’s longing for American treats and desserts and Jur’s rediscovery of the artistry and culinary skills he learned from his mother melded together — and the American Baking Company was born.“The American Baking Company began as part of our adventure to create a new home, while keeping alive some of scrumptious joys from our previous homes,” said Ken.“Now, we hope our culinary creations will also bring you some sweet happiness, joy and love along the way,” added Jur.
Our love for cooking developed on separate continents and in different cultures, but nevertheless the seeds were planted early, nurtured by family and friends and they continue to grow to this day.