Welcome to Out of the Box Baking
Hi, friend! I’m Janice Thompson — professional baker, cake designer, and author.
For more than 20 years, I’ve been creating wedding cakes, hand-painted cookies, and unique desserts for families, friends, and special events across Texas.
Here at Out of the Box Baking, my mission is simple: to help home bakers gain confidence and creativity — even if you’re starting with a boxed mix. Baking shouldn’t feel intimidating; it should feel joyful (and a little mischievous).
How It All Started
My baking journey began long before the internet knew me as “the cake-mix lady.”
What started as weekend baking projects soon became a bustling cottage bakery, filled with tiered wedding cakes, sculpted cookies, and recipes perfected through trial, error, and laughter.
As word spread, so did the requests — and before long, I was teaching others how to bake and decorate.
From small-group lessons to classroom baking sessions with kids, teaching became one of my sweetest callings.
A Career Built on Creativity
When I’m not elbow-deep in buttercream, I’m probably writing!
I’ve authored more than 170 books for the Christian market — including romantic comedies, cozy mysteries, and devotionals. Many of my heroines share my love of baking and family gatherings. Writing has given me a wonderful outlet to mix storytelling with sugar and spice.
🥄 Baking Philosophy
I believe baking should be approachable, affordable, and fun. My recipes focus on:
- Easy shortcuts that taste homemade
- Doctored cake mixes that wow guests
- Time-saving tricks for busy families
- Simple decorating techniques anyone can master
Whether you’re making cookies with the kids or prepping a wedding cake, there’s room for creativity in every recipe.
🐾 Life Beyond the Kitchen
Outside of baking and writing, I help run Mustard Seed Farm, a wonderful animal rescue in Magnolia Texas. My life is never dull — between frosting cakes and feeding puppies, there’s always someone who needs a treat!
Let’s Stay Connected
I’d love to share more recipes, baking tips, and behind-the-scenes moments with you!
👉 Follow me on
Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | TikTok
Or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly recipes and a sprinkle of inspiration straight from my kitchen.
Final Whisk of Encouragement
Thank you for visiting my site and for sharing your love of baking with me. Whether you’re here for an easy cookie recipe, a celebration cake, or just a bit of inspiration, I’m so glad you’ve found your way into my kitchen.
Now grab your apron, preheat the oven, and let’s bake something wonderful together!
