Full Breakdown
Maui Cookie Lady Gains National Recognition on Good Morning America
12/16/2025, 8:10:44 PM
Highlighting a Local Gem
The Maui Cookie Lady, a bakery based in Makawao, Hawaii, received national attention during a segment on Good Morning America aired on December 13, 2025. The segment, titled “The Very Best Cookie Delivery Services of 2025,” featured the bakery as a standout among cookie delivery services across the United States. The selection was made by Jamila Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appétit and Epicurious, who emphasized the quality and shipping capabilities of the cookies highlighted.
A Sweet Journey
Founded by Mitzi Toro, The Maui Cookie Lady began as a heartfelt gesture in 2012 to thank nurses at Maui Memorial Medical Center following the death of her father. Since then, the bakery has evolved into a nationally recognized brand known for its large, artisan cookies made with local ingredients such as macadamia nuts, passion fruit, and coconut. The featured cookies included popular flavors like White Chunk Mac Nut, Kona Coffee Espresso, Butterscotch Kisses, Candy Cane Forest, and Cinnamon Roll.
Community and Celebrity Support
The Maui Cookie Lady has garnered praise from various celebrities, including actor Dwayne Johnson and rapper Ludacris, further solidifying its reputation. Toro expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Seeing our cookies featured on Good Morning America felt surreal and deeply meaningful for our small Maui business. I’m proud of our team and grateful for the support that has carried us from our island kitchen to a national audience.” She hopes this moment will remind people of the unique qualities of the Maui community.
Awards and Recognition
In addition to the Good Morning America feature, The Maui Cookie Lady was ranked No. 4 on the 2025 list of Best Cookie Shops in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This accolade reflects the bakery's commitment to quality and creativity in baking, a passion that Toro has nurtured since her high school days.
Official Statements & Responses
Mitzi Toro highlighted the significance of the feature on Good Morning America, noting the impact it has on their small business and the broader Maui community. She expressed hope that the recognition would inspire others to appreciate local businesses.
Criticism & Opposition
While the coverage has been overwhelmingly positive, some critics argue that the national spotlight may overshadow smaller, local bakeries that also contribute to the community. However, no specific dissenting voices were noted in the sources.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m still taking it in,” — Mitzi Toro, Founder of The Maui Cookie Lady
- “Now, these are dessert cookies and they are massive, so you want to think about sharing these with folks,” — Jamila Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appétit and Epicurious
The feature on Good Morning America positions The Maui Cookie Lady as a prominent choice for holiday gifting, showcasing the bakery's journey from a local endeavor to a celebrated national brand.
