Christina Yurasits has called Lehighton home for many years, but a part of her heart will always be in her native Panther Valley.

So when the opportunity arose to expand her family’s bakery, Blended Bakery, to a second location in Lansford, she was eager to accept it.

“It’s home. I was so above and beyond excited that I had that opportunity to go back home,” Yurasits said.

Blended Bakery Panther Valley recently opened inside the Gathering Grounds Cafe on West Ridge Street.

The bakery features Persian doughnuts, long johns, gourmet cupcakes, scones, cake pops, cookies and sticky buns. They have kitchen space to bake at Gathering Grounds, as well as at their original location on First Street in Lehighton.

In the spring, Gathering Grounds approached Yurasits because they had space for a baker. Serina’s Bakery, which previously operated out of the space, is currently working on opening its own storefront on the same block.

Growing up in Summit Hill, the entire Panther Valley has had a special place in her life. She’s excited to see the town adding businesses along a commercial corridor which has seen hard times.

“I remember the Lansford that used to be there. Just to see something else added to the main street whether or not it was us, is good.”

Blended Bakery has made themselves at home inside the cafe. Their display and employees are the first thing customers see when they walk in the door.

Gathering Grounds is a ministry of Grace Community Church, located in Lansford. Blended Bakery hopes to be open for their events at the cafe and collaborate on events like cupcake frosting nights.

Birthday, wedding and other event cakes are also an important part of Blended’s business, and they plan to offer parties at the new location.

Yurasits said she’s excited to see what’s next for the small town.

“I look at all the beautiful buildings, and look at all the opportunities and see the potential growth. I’m excited to see what happens coming down the road,” she said.

Blended Bakery Panther Valley is open 6 a.m.-noon Wednesdays-Fridays, and 8 a.m.-noon on Saturdays. For more information, check out their page on Facebook, where Yurasits regularly posts videos with their offerings.