Harck & Heart, a specialty bakery, is more than just beautifully decorated treats. It’s a heartwarming story of family, tradition, and the magic of a German gingerbread recipe passed down through generations.
Owned by the passionate Gisela Harck, the bakery has grown into a unique e-commerce bakery that supplies and delivers joy and nostalgia with every bite to an array of retailers.
At the heart of Harck & Heart lies a beloved recipe that first took shape in 1963. “My grandmother used to bake gingerbread for school children during the festive season when she worked as a house mother in a hostel,” Gisela shares. This family tradition was later continued by her mother, who not only took over her grandmother’s position but also carried forward the gingerbread-making ritual for both the hostel children and family celebrations.
The German influence is undeniable in their signature gingerbread, or Lebkuchen. “The Germans are very big on their Christmas cookies,” Gisela explains. “What sets Lebkuchen apart is its soft texture—it’s more cake-like than the crunchy gingerbread most South Africans are used to.” The flavour also stands out thanks to a unique blend of seven spices, including cardamom, one of the world’s most expensive spices.
Using her passion for baking through creative expression
Gisela’s journey to entrepreneurship began at the age of 18 when she started baking gingerbread houses to fund her travel to London. “People responded so well to the gingerbread—it was like tapping into a shared sense of nostalgia. Adults loved it just as much as kids,” she recalls. Recognising the potential, Gisela always knew she would turn her passion into a business one day.
While she initially pursued a career in graphic design, the pull of the family recipe proved irresistible. For a few years, she balanced her full-time job with selling her gingerbread at markets during the festive season. But in August 2016, she made the leap to focus on the bakery full-time. “It grew to the point where I couldn’t juggle both anymore,” she reflects.
Her love for baking extends beyond flavour—it’s an art form. “I’m more creatively inclined, so I enjoy decorating the cookies the most,” says Gisela. She takes delight in using icing, sprinkles, and colourful designs to bring her creations to life, blending taste with visual appeal.
Local ingredients with a global flair
Sustainability is an important aspect of Harck & Heart’s philosophy, although it remains a work in progress. “We source as many ingredients as possible from local suppliers,” Gisela notes. “The spices are the only imports since South Africa doesn’t produce cinnamon.”
Balancing the demands of a small business, Gisela acknowledges that growth and sustainability are ongoing goals. “We recently brought on a business coach to help us structure things better, so we can focus more on these areas moving forward,” she explains.
Celebrating occasions all year round
While Harck & Heart’s Christmas range remains its flagship offering, the bakery now caters to a variety of celebrations throughout the year. “We’ve always been big on occasions—Easter, birthdays, Halloween, and special events. It’s part of our family tradition, and we wanted to extend that joy to our customers,” says Gisela.
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Despite the bakery’s festive origins, Harck & Heart has found ways to keep things exciting year-round. Whether it’s creating whimsical Easter-themed cookies or personalised treats for birthdays and weddings, the bakery ensures that its signature charm isn’t limited to the holiday season.
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A bright future full of sweet possibilities
With its deep-rooted heritage, artistic flair, and growing commitment to sustainability, Harck & Heart continues to evolve. Gisela’s vision for the bakery is one of balance—honouring tradition while being open to new opportunities. “It’s been an interesting journey, and I’m excited to see where it goes next,” she says with a smile.
At Harck & Heart, every cookie tells a story—one that spans generations and brings joy to people of all ages. Whether you visit for the nostalgia, the artistry, or simply the love baked into each treat, you’re sure to leave with your heart (and hands) full.
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Images: Supplied
