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Plum cakes at Christmas, cookies at Diwali, cakes for every celebration: home bakers are busiest from October to January. If friends already ask you to bake for them, here is how to turn it into a proper small business.
FSSAI registration basics
In India, food businesses, including home bakers, generally need to register with FSSAI. Small businesses below a set annual turnover (currently ₹12 lakh) can apply for basic registration online through the FoSCoS portal. You will need ID proof, a photo and your address. Display your registration number on labels. Rules change, so check the FSSAI site before you apply.
Kitchen and hygiene
- Keep a clean, dedicated space and storage for your baking.
- Label ingredients and track expiry dates.
- Mention allergens such as nuts, gluten, eggs and dairy on every order.
- Use food-grade packaging.
Tools worth having
- A digital kitchen scale for consistent results.
- A reliable OTG oven sized for your batches.
- Good cake tins and cookie cutters.
- Cake boxes and stickers for a professional finish.
Price it properly
Add up ingredients, gas or electricity, packaging, and your time per batch. Home bakers often under-charge; price for the quality and the convenience. See how to price festive gifts.
Get first orders
- Start with friends, neighbours and your society group.
- Post clear photos on Instagram and WhatsApp Status.
- Offer a small festive menu with a real order deadline.
- Ask happy customers for reviews and referrals.
This guide is part of our holiday series. For the bigger picture, read 15 Offline Holiday Side Gigs.
