From Thailand to Horicon, Passion for Baking Fuels Sweet Chatchaya Bakery

Had Chatchaya Pagelsdorf never moved to the United States, she may never have discovered her passion for baking. Raised on a family farm in Udon Thani, near the Laos border, Pagelsdorf spent her early years surrounded by agriculture and home-cooked meals rather than ovens filled with pastries and breads.

After relocating to the U.S., Pagelsdorf found herself drawn to baking as both a creative outlet and a way to connect with others. What started as experimenting in her home kitchen gradually evolved into a deeper pursuit—learning techniques, refining recipes, and sharing baked goods with friends and family.

That journey eventually led to the opening of Sweet Chatchaya Bakery, a shop that has quickly become known for its handcrafted desserts and welcoming atmosphere. Customers can find a variety of baked goods made with care, from classic favorites to specialty items inspired by Pagelsdorf’s background and personal tastes.

Pagelsdorf says love is the main ingredient in everything she creates. Each item is made with attention to detail and a desire to bring comfort and joy to customers—values she credits to her upbringing and family-centered roots.

Community members have embraced the bakery, praising both the quality of the treats and the story behind them. For Pagelsdorf, the support confirms that following her passion was the right choice.

From a farm in Thailand to a small-town bakery in Wisconsin, Pagelsdorf’s journey is a reminder that unexpected paths can lead to meaningful—and delicious—destinations.