Home-based cake baker Barbara Trujillo had her heart set on a full-fledged bakery. She began by providing cupcakes and other baked goodies out of her home, at least until word got out about her dream – and her cupcakes.

Following a story about her in The Press last October, enough support stepped forward so that on July 14, Frosted! – Brentwood’s newest purveyor of culinary delights – opened on Brentwood Boulevard.

Along with husband and co-owner Dean, Barbara has created new flavors to complement the new space. Ideas in the works last fall, including Mojito and Dulce de Leche cupcakes, have come to fruition and are selling like crazy. Also new are the freshly roasted house coffees, including a Mocha Java blend with chocolate notes, and blended drinks such as the Cupcake Latte. “It actually tastes like a vanilla cupcake,” said Barbara. She’s also working on a latte based on her signature red velvet cupcake recipe.

The bakery’s beautiful tables and comfortable chairs, as well as its free wireless Internet, make it an ideal place to hang out and work, or just take a coffee and cupcake break.

Patrons can also enjoy scones, muffins, cookies, lemon squares and cake by the slice. Pies will be available seasonally, and cinnamon-cream-cheese coffee cake can be ordered ahead.

Of course, the bakery’s signature cupcakes are available as well. Traditional flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and carrot cake sell for $2.50, while premium creations such as Heath Bar and Mojito cupcakes go for $3. Barbara aims to rotate 10 flavors each day, but customers with special cravings can call a few hours ahead and order any item from the menu.

Another new creation, the King Cupcake ($25), is “the granddaddy of all cupcakes,” said Barbara. “It’ll feed a good six to eight people.” Eventually, she and Dean hope to set up a prize for anyone who can eat the whole cupcake single-mouthed.

Opening the bakery fulfills a lifelong goal, said Barbara: “I remember being a kid. On my birthday, the highlight was my dad taking me to the bakery to pick out a cake. It just continued from there.” Now she can continue to work in her passion, creating beautiful cakes that please customers’ eyes as well as their sweet tooth.

“It’s their special day,” she said. “They should have a special cake.” In addition to customizing cakes for weddings and celebrations, Barbara and Dean plan to host kids’ cupcake-decorating parties as a fun new birthday idea.

Having made their dream come true, Barbara and Dean offered some advice to others hoping to start a business. Both agreed that formulating a business plan is the No. 1 priority, followed closely by support and encouragement from family and friends. Finally, a passion for their work and for making customers happy has carried them through the long days of getting started.

“You’ve got to love what you’re doing,” said Barbara. “It’s a long process, but if it’s in your heart and you love what you do, follow it.” And then reward yourself with a cupcake.

Frosted! – located at 7710 Brentwood Blvd. Suite B – is open Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Sundays. Hours will increase seasonally. Call 925-513-CUPCAKE or visit www.eatmyfrosting.com.