Adrian Aguilar

As a one-of-a-kind baker, Adrian Aguilar is a thriving young business owner with Down Syndrome. He owns Adrian’s Tasty Treats, where he bakes delectable Mexican wedding cookies from home, with a little help from his family. “There is an ability in every disability,” said Susan Aguilar, Adrian’s mom. “He is able to shine his own light through his cookie business.” Adrian’s parents helped him create Adrian’s Tasty Treats in 2019, with the goal of helping him grow professionally and embrace his strengths after he graduated high school.

This year, Adrian’s business has grown, and he was able to raise over $500 for the annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk fundraiser hosted by Galveston-Houston Families Exploring Down Syndrome. This year’s walk is on October 23 at Walter Hall Park from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Donations for the Step Up Walk will be accepted here through October 22 (select “Step Up Walk” on the form), but you can also donate to their general fund at any time.

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Adrian Aguilar. I am 18 years old, and I was homeschooled all my life. I graduated this year from high school. I play the drums, I like to go to GHFEDS events, and my Darby Dancers class at Chara Dance. I also like to go to the Verne Cox Center to see my friends, and I like to work out.

What kind of business do you have?

I have a cookie business, and it is called Adrian’s Tasty Treats. I bake Mexican wedding cookies from an old family recipe.

How long have you been baking cookies for your business?

I have been baking since 2019.

What do you enjoy most about owning your business?

I like meeting my customers and I like when people say ‘thank you’ whenever I deliver orders. I also like mixing the dough for the cookies, because I get to wear gloves and use my hands to squeeze all the ingredients together.

Walk us through your baking process.

I gather all the ingredients—like butter, pecans, flour, and more, and mix them together to make the dough. We bake the cookies in the oven and when they are done, I powder the cookies and count out twelve to put in each bag for people’s orders.

(Question for Adrian’s mom) How have you seen Adrian grow during his time owning and operating this business?

I’ve seen Adrian become more responsible and willing to bake when he receives orders. He never complains and he takes pride in making his cookies. If he had to do any other chores around the house, he’d drag his feet, but if you tell him that it’s time to make cookies, he’s ready to bake.