Hi, I’m Veena
I’m a cook, baker, recipe developer, and former cake decorator. I’ve been sharing recipes online for more than a decade, but I’ve been cooking and baking for much longer than that.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that a good recipe isn’t just about giving you a list of ingredients and telling you to bake for 30 minutes.
You need to know what the dough should feel like. How brown those onions should be. When the cake is actually done. What you can substitute, what you shouldn’t, and what to do when things don’t quite go according to plan.
That’s what I try to give you with every recipe on this blog.

Recipes that work — and show you how
One of the nicest things readers have told me over the years is, “Your recipes work.”
I don’t take that lightly.
Everything you see here comes from my kitchen. I cook it, test it, photograph it, and usually feed it to my family before it ever makes its way onto the blog.
Some recipes are simple everyday dinners. Others take a little more skill — bread, pastry, macarons, layer cakes, or a beautiful roast for a special occasion.
I don’t believe everything has to be “easy.”
I do believe it should be easy to understand.
My goal is to take the guesswork out of the process with clear instructions, progress pictures, practical tips, and the little details I’ve learned from making these recipes myself.
I want you to look at something you thought was difficult and think:
I can make that.
From cake decorating to the kitchen
Long before Veena Azmanov Kitchen became the recipe site it is today, I was a professional cake decorator.

I was mostly self-taught, and when I started, good cake-decorating information wasn’t nearly as easy to find online as it is today. I learned by experimenting, making mistakes, trying again, and figuring out what actually worked.
That experience shaped the way I teach today.
I became known for taking techniques that looked complicated and breaking them into manageable steps. I also learned that you don’t always need every professional tool and gadget to get a professional-looking result.
Eventually, I started sharing more than cakes.
The dinners I made for my family, bread, pastries, cookies, curries, roasts, desserts — basically, the food coming out of my kitchen.
And that’s still how I work. I cook first. I share what works.
A little about where my food comes from
I was born and raised in Mumbai, India, and grew up watching my mom cook mostly by instinct. Measurements were often “a little,” “a pinch,” or “about this much,” which probably explains both my love of experimenting and my determination to give you proper measurements. 😊
Later, I spent ten years traveling the world as a flight attendant with Singapore Airlines. It exposed me to cuisines and ingredients I hadn’t grown up with and made me endlessly curious about food.
My husband, Ziv, is Israeli-American, and our children are too. We were actually in the United States when we decided to get married. We came to Israel intending to stay for just two or three years so we could spend some time closer to Ziv’s family, especially his parents.
Life, of course, had other plans.

After our daughter Rhea was born, we learned that she had special needs and would require more medical support than we’d expected. We realized that staying in Israel would give her access to the care and services she needed, so the temporary move became home.
It wasn’t the life plan we’d started with, but it was the right decision for our family.
Today, we’re a wonderfully mixed-up family. Ziv and the kids are Israeli-American, I’m Indian-Israeli, and our home—and especially our kitchen—reflects all of it.
So you won’t find just one cuisine here. You’ll find Indian curries next to challah, roast lamb next to pasta, American cakes and pies alongside French pastry, and plenty of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food in between.
That’s genuinely how I cook, because that’s genuinely who we are.
What you’ll find here
You’ll find recipes for everyday cooking, baking, bread, pastry, desserts, and those slightly more ambitious things you may have always wanted to try.
Some are quick.
Some take time.
But whether we’re making a simple chicken dinner or macarons, my approach is the same:
Test it. Simplify the process where I can. Explain what matters. Show you what it should look like.
I don’t want you to simply follow my recipe.
I want you to understand enough that you feel confident making it.
Because once you understand why something works, you stop being afraid to cook without someone holding your hand.
And that’s when cooking becomes really fun.
Welcome to my kitchen
Most days you’ll find me behind the camera rather than in front of it.

I’m the one cooking the food, taking the progress pictures, filming those hands you see in my videos, testing another version because the first one wasn’t quite right, and probably making far more food than my family asked for.
This blog has grown and changed enormously over the years, but the reason I keep doing it hasn’t changed much.
I love cooking.
I love learning.
And I really love that something I’ve learned in my kitchen can help you succeed in yours.
So if you’ve landed here because there’s something you want to make, have a look around.
I hope I can help you make it with confidence.
Fun Facts About Me
I’d rather be
in the kitchen
Listening to
music
grateful for
my family
Favorite place
Baking
My Happy PlAce
family & movies
always behind
the camera
My favorite creations….



You asked…. I answered
I originally put these questions together for an interview that never happened. Since I’d already answered them — and they tell you quite a bit more about me, my family, my background, and how this blog came to be — I decided to keep them here.
So, if you’d like to know a little more about the person behind the recipes, keep reading.
I absolutely loved being a cake artist. It was creative, challenging, and incredibly rewarding, but it also consumed a huge amount of my time and energy.
As my kids were growing up, I realized I didn’t want to spend all my time making cakes for other people’s celebrations while missing too much of my own family life.
Food blogging gave me another way to use everything I had learned. I could still cook, bake, create, teach, and share what I knew, but I could do it from home and on a schedule that worked better for my family.
Over time, the blog naturally grew beyond cake decorating because I started sharing what I was already cooking at home — dinners, breads, desserts, curries, pastries, and everything in between.
I grew up in India, so Indian food will always have a special place in my heart.
However, when I began traveling overseas, I was introduced to various cuisines that blew my mind.
My curiosity and love for food led me to want to recreate these dishes at home. Over time, I began to mix and match the flavors and techniques I learned. These experiences shape the recipes I share on my blog today as I try to inspire my readers to step out of their comfort zones and try something new in their own kitchens. Our kids are great motivators too. Sometimes doing something for them can lead us to a new path, for example, I now make amazing Japanese food at home because my kids love it very much but eating it out often in not affordable.
When I started decorating cakes, it wasn’t a popular skill in Israel, and finding formal classes or workshops was nearly impossible. The few available resources were techniques I had already learned growing up at home. This meant I had to look elsewhere, but online resources were limited back then and not as accessible as they are today.
Because of this, trial and error became my greatest teacher. I spent countless hours experimenting, making mistakes, and learning from them. Every challenge pushed me to be more resourceful and creative.
Looking back, those early struggles taught me resilience and the value of perseverance. They inspired me to create a blog where others could find the guidance and support I wished I had when I started.
Thank you for this question. It truly captures the essence of my blog’s value proposition and is one of the main reasons I started it.
Growing up, I often heard the saying, “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach him how to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” This philosophy has been the guiding principle behind my blog. I believe that by teaching people the skills and techniques behind cooking and baking, they gain the confidence to create something uniquely their own, adapt recipes to their needs, and even troubleshoot when things don’t go as planned.
Providing recipes is helpful; even ChatGPT can give you a recipe, but empowering someone with the knowledge to understand the “why” and “how” behind the process is invaluable. It turns cooking from a task into a creative and enjoyable experience. My goal is to equip readers with the tools they need to feel at home in the kitchen, experiment fearlessly, and make cooking and baking an integral part of their lives.
Life is all about balance. Eating healthy doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in something sweet or comforting now and then. It’s a principle I’ve tried to teach my kids from the very beginning.
In our home, we always have some form of salad or fresh vegetables at every meal, even if it’s as simple as sliced cucumbers and tomatoes on the table. Because this has been a constant, I’ve never had to bribe or coax my kids into eating their veggies—they naturally see it as part of every meal.
When it comes to cooking and baking, I approach everything in moderation. I allow indulgent desserts while ensuring healthier options are equally appealing. By teaching my family the importance of balance, I hope to instill habits that make healthy eating feel natural rather than restrictive.
For other parents, my advice is simple: make healthy options readily available and part of everyday meals without pressure. At the same time, allow room for treats to show that food is meant to be enjoyed, not feared.
My mom was an incredible inspiration in my life. She faced a tough journey, yet she remained positive and determined. When I was just two years old, my dad passed away, leaving her as an uneducated single mother with three kids and no financial support.
She worked tirelessly to put food on the table and give us a decent education. When I turned ten, she made the heartbreaking decision to leave overseas for work, and our family was separated. We lived with relatives for some time and eventually went to boarding schools. Despite the physical distance, she instilled in us a deep sense of family and ensured we always stayed close and supported one another.
One of her most valuable lessons was that hard work always leads to success. That philosophy has guided me not just in life but in my career as well.
When it came to cooking, my mom’s approach was unique and inspiring. She never followed recipes or gave us exact instructions. Instead, she taught us the basics and encouraged us to make each dish our own. If you asked her how much of an ingredient to use, she’d say, “a little bit,” “just a pinch,” or “about a finger deep.” It wasn’t about precision; it was about intuition and creativity. This mindset shaped my culinary journey, teaching me to trust my instincts, experiment, and take pride in making something uniquely my own.
Her resilience, hard work, and approach to life and cooking have profoundly influenced not just my career but also the way I view challenges and opportunities in life.
Having a daughter with special needs has shaped my journey in profound ways. It meant that I couldn’t travel overseas to give classes, attend cake shows, or open a storefront, as she required a lot of my time and energy. Instead, I’ve channeled my passion into areas that allow me to work from home, like sharing my creations online, teaching and connecting with a global audience from my own kitchen through my blog.
Living in Israel has made a huge impact on my cooking and baking.
Israel has a mix of beautiful cuisines from Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, traditional Jewish, and Arab food. Some of these recipes have introduced me to unique ingredients like zaatar, sumac, and baharat.
In addition, Israel has fresh veggies and fruits that are locally grown. So, relying on seasonal produce transforms the way I plan and approach my recipe development.
I love making traditional food like pita, tahini, and challah, which are fun but also highlight the simplicity of our lifestyle.
For example, on Thursday, we eat pita bread with hummus and salad. Very simple, and yet it’s a full meal here!
Some advice I’d give would be
Practice Consistently – No matter how much you learn, hands-on practice will always be your best teacher. The more you bake and decorate, the more you’ll refine your skills.
Embrace Mistakes and Experiment – Don’t be afraid to try new things and make mistakes. Some of the best lessons and techniques I’ve learned came from failed attempts.
Invest in Quality Tools – Start with good-quality tools that you truly need. This will save you from collecting unnecessary items and make your work much more efficient.
Focus on Presentation – Details matter. Simple additions like cake boards, ribbons, and coordinating colors can elevate the look of your cakes dramatically.
Take Classes and Keep Learning – While trial and error is valuable, taking professional classes can fast-track your growth. Invest in yourself by learning from experts when you have the chance.
Honestly, I’m still finding my own sweet spot there! But, in general, I try to
1. Plan ahead – for example, Sunday and Monday are my video days because the house is all to myself.
2. Involve the family – My husband helps with simple blog work when he can. But also with brainstorming for future posts.
3. Of course, the kids feel very involved because they are my taste testers.
4. Flexibility – I adapt my plan when necessary. For example, when I have important family events, the blog work is on hold!
5. Priority – No matter how busy I am with the blog, I try to keep time for myself or the family. I go for my walk and workout every day!
For the future, I’d simply like to keep making this site more useful — better recipes, better instructions, better videos, and more ways to connect with the people who cook from them.
This is a deeply personal and painful topic for me as an Israeli. The events unfolding are heartbreaking, and the human toll—both in Israel and in Gaza—is devastating. The hostages taken are an unbearable reality, and my thoughts are constantly with their families who are living in unimaginable fear and uncertainty. At the same time, I recognize the immense suffering of civilians in Gaza, many of whom are caught in a cycle of violence they did not choose.
I firmly believe that innocent lives, no matter where they are, must be valued and protected. It’s difficult to process the grief, fear, and anger this conflict stirs, but I hold onto hope for a future where this kind of violence is no longer the answer and where peace and security are attainable for everyone in the region.
These are not easy times, and the situation is incredibly complex. While I am deeply connected to my country, I also advocate for compassion and understanding across all sides. We must strive for solutions that prioritize humanity and end the suffering for everyone involved.
As a parent, the thought of my son going into the army is both a source of pride and a heavy weight on my heart. In Israel, serving in the army is a rite of passage, a responsibility that nearly every young person takes on to protect our home and our future. I am proud of the values of duty, resilience, and service that the army instills, but as a parent, I can’t deny the worry that comes with it.
No parent wants to see their child in harm’s way, and the world we live in makes this reality even more challenging. At the same time, I know that this experience will shape him in profound ways—teaching him leadership, teamwork, and the ability to handle difficult situations.
I hold onto hope that the day will come when our children no longer need to serve in this way, that peace will prevail, and that their futures will be defined by opportunities to build and grow, rather than to defend and protect. Until then, I will support him in every way I can and stay hopeful for his safety and the safety of all young people serving.
Having a daughter with special needs has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It’s taught me to slow down, appreciate the small victories, and redefine what success and happiness truly mean. I’ve learned so much about resilience, unconditional love, and the importance of creating an inclusive world where everyone has a place. She’s shown me the beauty of individuality and the strength it takes to overcome challenges, and I’m so grateful for the lessons she teaches me every day.
There are definitely challenges, like navigating therapies, schools, and systems that aren’t always inclusive or accessible. At times, it can feel isolating or overwhelming, especially when people don’t fully understand her needs or abilities. But those challenges are balanced by the joy she brings into our lives. Every step forward, no matter how small, feels monumental, and it reminds me to focus on progress rather than perfection.
I’d like people to know that parenting a child with special needs is just like parenting any other child—full of love, laughter, and challenges. It’s about understanding their unique needs and celebrating their unique strengths. One of the most important things people can do is approach families like ours with empathy and an open mind. Inclusion isn’t just about policies or accommodations; it’s about kindness and making space for everyone to feel valued.
My daughter inspires me every single day with her determination and courage. She approaches life with such a pure sense of joy and resilience, even when things are difficult. Watching her tackle challenges head-on motivates me to face my own struggles with the same strength and positivity. She’s a constant reminder to celebrate life’s little moments and to never take anything for granted.
Balance is always a work in progress, and I’ve learned to prioritize what truly matters. Having a strong support system—whether it’s family, friends, or professionals—has been crucial. I try to be present in the moment, whether I’m focusing on her, my work, or myself. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned to be kind to myself and accept that I can’t do everything perfectly. What’s most important is that she feels loved, supported, and understood.
I wouldn’t call it a compromise but rather a shift in focus. While I’ve missed out on some traditional opportunities, I’ve found immense fulfillment in the work I’ve been able to do. I’ve built a community, shared my skills, and inspired others—all while being present for my daughter. That balance is a dream in itself.
Embrace the journey as it unfolds. Adapting and pivoting is okay; sometimes, the unexpected path leads to incredible opportunities. Use your unique circumstances as a source of inspiration and innovation. Remember, success isn’t just about where you go—it’s about the impact you make along the way.
I am on many social networks. I hope you will follow me there, keep in touch, and join my journey with the most recent events, recipes, and tutorials.








Thank you so much for sharing your lovely recipes – we love all your recipes – food as well as cakes. Love you
Thank you so much Stella
Hi Veena. I love what I have found on your blog while I am researching fondant. I have a question that I haven’t found an answer to. Is there any appreciable difference in quality between fondant made from a syrup or fondant made from powered sugar? I could imagine that fondant made from a syrup would have smaller sugar crystals and thus being smoother. Is this the case? Of course making it from powdered sugar is easier but I’m thinking only about the quality difference. Any assistance would be hugely appreciated as none of my books cover this in any depth.
Hey Art Pollard. Not sure what fondant are you referring too. Are you talking about pouring fondant? The one you pour over petite fours or desserts? They are both very different. The fondant recipes on my blog are rolled fondant which we use for decorated cakes. Thanks
Hello Veena,
Wonderful blog! I loved reading about your life journey from being a flight attendant to marriage, carving out a life in Israel, and following your passion. I have bookmarked a couple of your cake recipes and hoping to bake this weekend.
All the best,
Anupama
Thank you so much, Anupama
Hi Veena, I wrote to you many times in the past.
I really love your website and all your recipes.
Lately since I downloaded the latest update on my mobile I can only see the instructions on how to make any recipes you have posted but The recipes itself like quantities do not download.
I find it really frustrating not to be able to know how much of everything in the recipe is used?
Regards Paulette from Australia
Hey Paulette,
I agree it can be frustrating not knowing how much of the ingredients you need.
Not sure how to solve the issue at my end. My website loading has no issues. In fact, it’s been checked every day for page speed.
I think the problem is with your internet speed. I highly recommend contacting your internet provider to see how they can help you.
Thanks
Hi Veena,
I think I wrote to you a while ago, cannot remember the location, could have been a comment in one of the postings of cookie recipe. For whatever reason, I never get notified about follow up comments in my email inbox. So there is no way to know if any blogger has responded to my question or a general comment.
Regardless, I ran into your YouTube channel by accident one day and loved a lot of the recipes you shared of cookies. I was curious to see your blog as well. The pictures are so vibrant and the recipes are wonderful.
I have not met anyone from India yet who decided to settle in Israel. How do you like it there?
Hey Mita. Welcome to my blog.
If there is one thing I do for sure, is respond to my comments, often just a small thank you.
Unfortunately, sometimes comments may get lost in spam – if I see them I get them of course. Sorry if your comment didn’t get responded too.
In any case, you should definitely get an email when there is a response to your comment.
Glad you visited my blog and liked my pictures. I hope you try my recipes. If you do I’d love some feedback for sure.
My husband and I met while he was in the US and I lived in Singapore. I paths crossed and we fell in love. Our plan was to live in the US (SFO) but
My destiny was that I’d make my home here in Israel so here I am.
As long as we are a family doesn’t matter which part of the world we live in. Right?
Have a wonderful day.
Awesome post you have thanks for the sharing this post with us… very good work and great blog..
Thank you Jessica.
You are an amazing cake artist, food blogger and teacher. Love your tutorials and love your style. Thanks so much for sharing.
Thank you so much, Peter. Appreciate you saying that so much.
Hi,
I loved you videos. Great work!
I would like to try making some for my son!
Can you kindly tell me where can i find an edible pencil to trase the images!
Thank you darling
I use to find it at cake decorating stores but these days most people use the regular HP pencil saying it’s led free. Thanks
I just wanted you to know that I love your blog. You have the best recipes that always work. Thanks
Thank you so much, Donald. So happy to hear you love my blog and my recipes. Appreciate you coming back to write this feedback. Have a wonderful day.