Sugar and Chip AZ: A Sweet Story of Community Connection and Craftsmanship

Nationwide - MAY 2025 - (USAnews.com) - Sugar and Chip AZ, founded by Shannon Melde, is more than just a bakery—it’s a testament to the power of community, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of perfection. Located in Arizona, this homegrown business specializes in handcrafted chocolate chip cookies that have become a local favorite. What began as a small-scale operation has now blossomed into a beloved business that continues to grow due to Shannon's relentless commitment to quality, passion for baking, and genuine connection with her customers.

Shannon’s love for baking began early in life, with an interest in the science and artistry behind creating delicious treats. Although she never completed her formal culinary education at Scottsdale Community College, Shannon’s natural talent and determination allowed her to hone her skills over 25 years of personal practice. It was this dedication to perfecting the art of baking that led to the creation of Sugar and Chip AZ—a bakery driven by a simple yet powerful goal: to make the best chocolate chip cookie Arizona has ever tasted.

The heart of Sugar and Chip AZ lies in Shannon’s approach to baking. "I believe in using only the finest ingredients because that’s how you achieve the best results," Shannon says. Each batch is made with care and attention to detail, ensuring that every cookie is baked to perfection. But it's not just the ingredients that make Shannon’s cookies special; it's the love and pride she pours into each one. For Shannon, baking is more than just a job—it’s a way to bring joy to her community, one cookie at a time.

What sets Sugar and Chip AZ apart from other bakeries is its deep connection to the local community. Shannon has built a loyal customer base not just through the quality of her cookies, but by offering an experience that goes beyond the product itself. Her approach to business is rooted in personal relationships. Customers know that when they purchase a cookie from Sugar and Chip AZ, they’re supporting a small, local business where they are valued and appreciated. This personal touch is something Shannon prides herself on.

As a mother of two, Shannon has built her business with the same love and dedication she shows her family.  Unfortunately, her daughter lost her battle with depression in 2022 at the young age of 14. She has created The Maddie Melde Foundation in her honor and also written a children’s book about her daughter as well.  This commitment to family and community is also reflected in her role as a Volunteer Wish Granter for Make-A-Wish Arizona and her involvement in the Junior League of Phoenix.

Looking to the future, Shannon’s dream is to expand Sugar and Chip AZ beyond the home bakery. While she remains focused on the quality of her cookies and the relationships she has built with her customers, the thought of opening a storefront remains a goal she continues to pursue. "The idea of having a physical location where people can come, enjoy our cookies, and be part of the Sugar and Chip AZ family is something I look forward to," Shannon shares.