If you’re obsessed with gingerbread, you’ll know that there’s the spiced and not-so-nice kind, and then there’s Harck & Heart – the stuff that tastes like Christmas and looks like festive spirit personified. Passed down from grandmother to mother to daughter, the family recipe was not simply an heirloom to Gisela Harck, but a recipe for success.

Baking Happiness Since 1963

Despite a decade-long career in graphic designing, Gisela always knew that gingerbread houses would build the foundation for her dream – owning a confectionery business. Launched in 2014, Harck & Heart was founded with the intention of honouring her heritage and spreading joy through the flavours that defined her childhood. Now, 41 years in the making and two decades since Harck & Heart was founded, the business has a loyal customer base and continues to spread cheer all year round. We chat with Gisela Harck about baking dreams into existence, family traditions and her best holiday baking tips.

Pictured left: Gisela Harck, founder of Harck & Heart.

What is the inspiration behind Harck & Heart?

I wanted to replicate for others the joy I felt as a child savouring the marvellous sweet creations my mother would make for us.

What made you switch careers, and how has your design background helped grow your business?

The dream of owning my own business – baking gingerbread creations – was born when I was around 18 years old. I decided to bake and sell gingerbread houses and gingerbread men at a market during the festive season. I enjoyed the process of creating something beautiful and tasty. I also loved seeing the nostalgia on older people’s faces passing by and witnessing the delight in children’s eyes – I knew then that I wanted to do this full-time.

My design background was instrumental to my success. It has served me, and still serves me, well today. I saved a lot of money by designing and creating the company’s logo and corporate identity, as well as designing the packaging and everything that goes along with it. I still use my skills in product development. I am a creative at heart.

What has been the highlight of this journey?

Learning more about myself and others through the struggles that I have faced. Meeting the most incredible people along the way that have helped me continue on this path.

The secret to making the most delicious gingerbread?

First and foremost, the secret lies in our secret family recipe that has been passed down through the generations. It’s flavourful, not too spicy, well-balanced and really moreish! The other ingredient is the care and attention to detail that goes into each cookie, crafted by hand every step of the way.

Harck & Heart is inspired by your mother & grandmother. How have they impacted your approach to business?

Back in the day, my grandmother was the ‘tuismoeder’ (house mother/chaperone) for the German International School Cape Town hostel. She first started baking this recipe for her school children in 1963, during the festive season to bring a little cheer to the kids – especially to those who couldn’t go home over weekends. They each got a bag of these cookies to indulge in. It was a tradition that my mom continued. When my siblings and I were born, she continued baking this recipe for us as a family.

I think the same sentiment that inspired my grandmother and my mother to bake these cookies, is the same sentiment that we strive for at Harck &Heart – to bring a little joy to people’s lives – whether this is through tasting our deliciously moreish product or using one of our DIY Kits to build a gingerbread house with the family.

Building a brand is not for the faint of heart. Any advice for entrepreneurs wanting to pursue their business full-time?

I would say ‘just start’ – that is the most daunting [part]. You don’t need to have all the answers, you will figure everything out along the way. Whatever you do, just show up consistently for yourself and for your dream, especially during the hard times. Make an effort to find a network of people who can support you; it can be a lonely journey.

What’s your fondest childhood food memory?

My mom always went out of her way to make any festive occasion during the year special for us; whether it was our Birthday, Easter or Christmas, it was always a feast for the eyes and the stomach. The highlight of our birthdays was always the themed birthday cakes she would bake for us.

Favourite food obsession at the moment?

​​Anything Thai-inspired is a big favourite. The balance of sweet, salty, spicy and sour [flavours] really hits the spot!

Most underrated ingredient?

Fresh lemon or lime juice.

Three things you can’t live without?

Fresh ginger tea in the morning, a good night’s sleep, and a piping hot shower to start and end the day.

The best baking advice you can give?

Follow the recipe! The right ratios are extremely important if you want to ensure a successful bake.

Christmas is around the corner. What are some of your favourite family festive traditions?

Baking is big for Germans around Christmas. We have a tradition of baking a multitude of Christmas cookies during this time of year. We arrange the cookies on a plate called ‘Bunter Teller’ or directly translated, ‘colourful plate,’ which we then share or gift to family and friends. Often there will be an exchange of ‘Bunter Teller,’ which is wonderful, as everyone has a different selection of baked goodies on their plates.

What’s new to the range?

This year, we have launched a new, gold-inspired range, which we are absolutely thrilled about! The response has been resounding. This range adds another dimension to our more traditional red and white Christmas range. It’s perfect for the classic minimalist and is simply beautiful!

Where can people buy Harck & Heart products?

We supply retailers nationwide with our products. You can find them [at selected] Spar stores, delis and gift shops. Reach out to us to find a retailer closest to you.

A selection of our Christmas products is available at Yuppiechef, both in-store and online. Our products are also available through the Harck & Heart online shop; we also have a factory store outlet at our bakery in Firgrove, which is also a collection point if you want to order online and collect directly.

Follow Harck & Heart on social media and order goodies online or find your favourite treats at these local stockists, nationwide. 

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