By Jeanette Hurt, Contributor.

In the vibrant world of innovative confectionery, DAraun Brown has emerged as a pioneering figure with his unique venture, Whiskey Brown Whiskey Spiked Cookies. Located in Milwaukee, this groundbreaking company specializes in delicious cookies infused with a delightful twist of whiskey, making it one of the few businesses of its kind in the United States. From his humble beginnings as a baking enthusiast to the face of a burgeoning cookie brand, Browns journey is both intriguing and inspirational.

Browns foray into the cookie business traces back to his high school days. Inspired by a young entrepreneur who showcased her cookie business on David Lettermans late-night show, he decided to embark on a similar path. With a passion for baking, he launched a cookie-making enterprise which he maintained until his academic pursuits led him to college, where he majored in finance. His career blossomed in the finance sector, focusing on mergers and acquisitions, but the desire to bake remained a constant in his life.

In a serendipitous turn of events, Brown decided to experiment with his baking one evening. He recalls, I was baking a batch of cookies while enjoying a glass of whiskey. I wondered what would happen if I added the whiskey to the batter. This bold decision led to the creation of a cookie he named Hemingway, which combined whiskey with toffee and caramel to complement the whiskey's rich aroma. I realized it was a good cookie, and thats when I knew I was on to something different, something good, Brown reflected.

Despite his successful career in finance, the idea of a baking business lingered in the back of his mind. With encouragement from friends in the food industry, he took a significant leap in 2015 by founding Crumbles Confectionary. However, it wasnt until 2019 that the concept of whiskey-infused cookies began to truly gain traction. In 2020, after much reflection, Brown recognized the importance of branding, leading to the rebranding of his company as Whiskey Brown. It all changed when I realized I was Whiskey Brown, he said. Thats when we rebranded.

The name Whiskey Brown emerged after brainstorming with friends, who helped him compile a list of potential names. Everyone loved the name Whiskey Brown, he recounted. Initially hesitant, Brown had a soft spot for Crumbles Confectionary, but he soon understood that the new name resonated deeply with customers and encapsulated the essence of his product. Once I realized how much the name resonated with others, things changed, Brown added.

Today, Browns cookies are available for purchase online, and he is set to introduce new packaging soon, which will see them stocked back on the shelves at various retailers, including Outpost Natural Foods and Fresh Thyme. Priced at $35 per dozen, these whiskey-infused delights are poised for a nationwide expansion in stores by early 2026. Among the flavors offered, the Whiskey and Toffee and Smoked Chocolate Banana cookies utilize Uncle Nearest 1884 Whiskey, which enhances the combination of flavors.

Brown has created an impressive array of 40 different cookie flavors, each containing at least two types of alcohol. For instance, the Hemingway cookie incorporates two distinct whiskeys, while the Dark Matter cookie features a rich blend of salted bourbon caramel, chocolate stout beer, rum, and crme de cacao. His Salted Caramel Peanut Butter cookie combines bourbon with peanut butter whiskey for a uniquely flavorful experience. Using more than one type of alcohol adds complexity to the cookies, Brown explained. When the alcohol bakes off, youre left with the flavor profiles of each spirit. Depending on the flavors and spices, it will hit your palate differently.

For those with dietary restrictions, Brown offers the option to create gluten-free cookies upon request. Among his popular gluten-free offerings is the Big Friendly Giant, which features a robust mix of bourbon, whiskey, and chardonnay, complemented by ingredients like kettle chips, movie theater popcorn, M&Ms, and caramel. You cant even tell its a gluten-free cookie, Brown asserts confidently.

In addition to his cookie business, DAraun Brown co-hosts a podcast titled Whiskey with a Buddy alongside his friend Buddy Robinson. The podcast explores complex themes in a relaxed conversational style, often featuring whiskey and cookie pairings. The premise is a show about nothing and everything, Brown describes, highlighting that their diverse backgrounds contribute to their engaging discussions. Were a middle-aged black guy and a middle-aged white guy, and we come from different backgrounds. Its a genuine conversation, he added, reflecting on the unique perspectives they bring to the table.