The Story Behind Talkback Snacks!

Hey there! I’m Mat, the founder of Talkback Snacks. I'm honored that you'd like to learn about the journey that led to the creation of our unique cookies.

You might be wondering if there's an equally spicy tale behind the creation of this brand. Honestly, I wish I could tell you about a childhood obsession with baking shortbread cookies, where friends begged me for batches on end. But let’s be real – if I whipped these cookie up in my kitchen, you probably wouldn't be lining up for them! Sure, I adore food and desserts of all kinds, but baking? That’s not my forte!

The true adventure began on a fateful day in September, 2023 when my neighbor returned from Bengaluru, India, bearing an unexpected treasure: spicy khara cookies. Imagine my surprise when I took that first bite, expecting something sweet, only to be met with a delightful kick of chilis! That buttery snap, that blend of flavors—it was like a warm hug from home.

Growing up in an Indian American household (in Albany, NY), spices were my childhood companions. Cumin, ginger, curry leaves – you name it, it was a part of my everyday life. Yet, I had never experienced these beloved flavors in a cookie! After I devoured my neighbor's stash, I was on a quest for more, only to find out these magical cookies weren’t available in the U.S. My heart sank, but then a thought struck me: why not try making them myself? If only I had baking skills to match my passion!

As a cookie enthusiast, I had become somewhat disillusioned with the cookie selection at grocery stores. I mean, who really needs another brand of chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin cookies in their life? There’s so much more to explore! That’s when it hit me: the blend of spicy and sweet cookies could bring excitement back to the cookie aisle, and I was determined to lead the charge.

Thus began my journey into the world of cookies! I teamed up with a master baker to perfect the recipes, scoured the state for the freshest flour and richest butter, and found a fantastic bakery willing to bring my spicy creation to life. This whirlwind of creativity culminated in my debut at the Woodinville Farmers Market on May 4, 2024.

Picture this: my canopy set up under the slightly overcast sky, bags of cookies and samples laid out. I had my doubts—would anyone be bold enough to try a spicy cookie? This was a leap of faith, driven by sheer instinct rather than formal market research. But then, it happened: my first customer! The thrill of that purchase sparked a wave of exhilaration within me.

One after another, customers flocked to my stand, and each sale felt like a little victory. Through every weekend and bag sold, I discovered a community of fellow flavor adventurers who craved the sweet, spicy, and savory harmony in a shortbread. It was exhilarating!

As the farmers market season came to a close, I knew I didn’t want this deliciousness to stop. So, I set up this website, creating a space where you can continue to relish my cookies—or experience them for the very first time!

Join me on this flavorful journey, and let’s redefine what a cookie can be together. Welcome to the Talkback Snacks family, where every bite is an adventure!

Stay Spicy, Mat 🌶️