The word “benevolent” has several synonyms: kind, warmhearted, and good-natured, just to name a few. But the adjective can also be used to describe something “bountiful,” like Verlie Payne’s cookies.
Not only are Payne’s sweet treats large in size, they’re also jam-packed with years of trial & error, undying persistence, passion, love, and a commitment to family.
Following culinary school and a slew of food-centric jobs, Payne vowed to build an empire for her tribe, not someone else’s.
The company — Hudson’s Cookies — is even named after Payne’s son who was born in 2007, the same year the pastry chef incorporated her cookie biz.
“I know it’s just a cookie, but it’s made from the heart. This is what I love to do, and I hope it shows in my work,” says Payne via the Irvine Standard.
After perfecting her recipes in a 4 x 4 New York apartment kitchen, Payne moved to Orange County to offer her children a warmer atmosphere. She then became a private labeler, selling her dough to coffee shops, cafes, and larger businesses like Legoland California.
Today, Hudson’s Cookies — lauded for its mystifying crispy-yet-gooey creations — has Irvine and Newport Beach outposts, with a San Juan Capistrano store on the way.
This fall, Hudson’s will debut at Dan Almquist’s River Street Marketplace (San Juan Capistrano), an offshoot of his two other food halls, Rodeo 39 in Stanton and Rodeo X in Ontario Ranch.
In addition to Payne’s wonderfully-crafted confections, the food & retail mecca will feature modern dining concepts like Fermentation Farm and The Meat Cellar and Steakhouse, curated retail, local art, and a full bar and brewery with shared communal tables for outdoor dining.
