CALIFORNIA, Md. — At JC’s Kitchen, baking isn’t just a business: it’s a tradition rooted in family, community, and the simple joy of sharing something made with care. Today, that tradition is being recognized on a national level as JC’s Kitchen proudly represents St. Mary’s County, Maryland, as a competitor in the Greatest Baker Challenge, a nationwide competition spotlighting exceptional independent bakers.
Our Profile can be found HERE
Founded in 2016 by Curtis King and Joseph Houchens, JC’s Kitchen began as a passion project—cooking and baking for family and friends at home. In May 2025, after taking a sourdough class taught by our close friend and Certified Health Coach Caren DePiazza, that passion was reignited and quickly evolved into something more. What started at the kitchen table soon expanded into a full cottage kitchen operation serving the public through farmers markets, pop-ups, and community events.
In just six months of publicly serving the community, JC’s Kitchen built a loyal following across Southern Maryland, as well as Baltimore, Frederick, Montgomery County, and beyond. By November 2025, that dedication to quality, consistency, and community support led to national recognition and nomination in the Greatest Baker Challenge—a remarkable milestone for a newly launched public-facing operation.
JC’s Kitchen is best known for its artisan sourdough breads, The Original Spirited Cakes of St. Mary’s, and our growing signature spice line. Every product is made in small batches, using thoughtfully selected ingredients, and baked with the same care found in a family kitchen. Operating under Maryland’s Cottage Food Law, JC’s Kitchen remains committed to responsible practices and strong community ties.
“We believe in quality over shortcuts,” said founder Curtis King. “Every recipe and every ingredient is chosen with intention. Everything we bake reflects the care, pride, and community we come from.”
Today, customers can find JC’s Kitchen at markets and events across Maryland, where connection is just as important as the food. JC’s Kitchen also accepts direct orders for both personal celebrations and commercial events, making it easy for customers and organizations to bring handcrafted local baking to birthdays, weddings, showers, corporate gatherings, staff appreciation events, vendor events, and more.
“At JC’s Kitchen, it’s more than baking—it’s connection,” said co-founder Joseph Houchens. “We love meeting people, sharing samples, and hearing their stories. Every loaf and cake reflects the community that supports us.”
Signature Offerings Include
- Spirited Cakes
- Artisan Sourdough Breads
- Dehydrated Sourdough Starters & Dry Mixes
- JC’s Signature Spice Line
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www.facebook.com/jcskitchen2016
Putting St. Mary’s County on the National Map
The Greatest Baker Challenge is driven by daily public voting, and JC’s Kitchen is calling on residents, local businesses, and supporters near and far to help showcase St. Mary’s County on the national culinary stage.
Vote Daily & Support Local
Vote once per day at: https://greatestbaker.org//curtis-j-king-Uays
Share the link and encourage others to vote! Support local businesses and community-driven success!
A vote for JC’s Kitchen is a vote for local entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, and St. Mary’s County pride.
JC’s Kitchen
“The Community Source for Bread, Spirited Cakes, & More.”