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About Raleigh Cakes

Learn more about who we are, the types of cakes and desserts we create, and how our made to order business model works. This section covers our approach to scratch made production, quality, customization, and why we operate differently from a traditional walk in bakery.

Who is Raleigh Cakes?

Raleigh Cakes is a scratch made custom cake studio specializing in premium celebration cakes, wedding cakes, and decorated desserts for pickup and local delivery in the Raleigh area. We focus on high quality ingredients, thoughtful design, and made to order production rather than mass produced bakery items.

No, Raleigh Cakes is not a traditional retail bakery or walk in storefront. We operate as a made to order cake studio, which means our products are created specifically for each customer rather than prepared in bulk for daily display.

Yes! While we are happy to work with you on achieving your desired flavor combos, we have standard flavor offerings as well as premium flavors and pairings we highly recommend.

                            📋Click for our popular flavors list📋

Yes, we offer gluten free and nut free options and follow a stringent sanitization process for these requests. We are however not a “nut free” or “gluten free” facility. 

Our business model allows us to create everything fresh and specifically for each customer rather than keeping daily inventory on hand. This helps us reduce waste, control overhead more efficiently, and invest more into premium ingredients, scratch made production, and detailed design work.

We create a wide range of celebration cakes, custom cakes, wedding cakes, tiered cakes, sculpted cakes, and dessert table items. Our work ranges from clean and elegant designs to highly themed or more detailed custom pieces depending on the event and budget.

Not at this time. 



Our cakes, fillings, frostings, and many decorative elements are made from scratch as part of our standard process. We care deeply about both presentation and flavor, and our work is designed to feel premium in both. 

This also means real ingredients, no preservatives, no boxed mixes, etc are used. Our cakes are truly made to order, made from scratch with premium real ingredients, and made just for you.

At Raleigh Cakes, our cakes are made from scratch with real butter, fresh eggs, pure vanilla, and premium ingredients and always baked to order for your event.

Our signature cake style is intentionally richer, more structured, and more flavorful than the light, airy sponge commonly found in grocery store or mass-produced cakes. We use a butter-rich recipe that sits between a classic butter cake and a refined pound cake, giving our cakes:

  • a velvety, tighter crumb

  • a buttery, balanced flavor

  • the structural integrity needed for detailed decoration and design

  • the rich mouthfeel many cake lovers seek in custom, scratch baking

We finish every cake with authentic Swiss meringue buttercream, made from real butter and egg whites. This buttercream is:

  • silkier and less sweet than traditional shortening-based frostings

  • smooth, clean in flavor, and designed to highlight your cake’s taste

  • meant to be served at room temperature for the best texture

Because we use real butter, proper tempering is important: taken directly from refrigeration, the buttercream and cake can feel firm and flavors muted, but at room temperature, they soften to the texture you expect from real, premium cake.

This style is a deliberate choice and one that reflects real ingredients and artisanal technique rather than supermarket shortcuts

We are a made to order cake studio, not a volume based retail bakery. That means we focus on custom craftsmanship, premium ingredients, and a more intentional production process rather than quick turnaround, daily display inventory, or heavily standardized products with tons of preservatives. 

Yes!

For Signature Cake Orders you can add-on matching themed cupcakes. 

For Custom Cakes we do offer more options such as cake pops and cakesickles along with matching themed cupcakes with a min of 1 dozen.

For Weddings/Catered Events we offer individual or bulk desserts such as cupcakes, cake pops, cakesicles, parfaits, cookies, to build exquisite dessert tables.

While we do not generally offer these  for stand alone purchase, we will consider them for quantities of 3 dozen or more.

We offer three main options for ordering

Signature Cakes
You can order Signature cakes with just 3 days lead time directly from our online store here:

https://raleighcakes.com/store/

Most cakes offer light customization options but the design shown is ultimately the cake you will receive. We do not accept modifications for these cakes outside of the options presented. 

Custom Cakes
When you need fully custom, have an idea you want us to bring to life, or want us to give our interpretation of a cake you’ve seen, use this option. 

Just fill out our contact form to check availability and get an estimate. We do recommend 2+ weeks advance notice but we can sometimes fit something in with short notice. We typically book up 1-2 weeks in advance fully for custom cakes.

https://raleighcakes.com/contact/

Weddings, Dessert Tables and Catered Events

For Weddings and Catered events please use the form found here:

https://raleighcakes.com/wedding-contact/

Yes and yes!

For full details please see:
https://raleighcakes.com/pickup-delivery/

Pickup

Raleigh Cakes offers free pickup in North Raleigh through our trusted business partner Monday through Saturday 11:30am to 9pm with no appointment necessary, along with delivery within and out of Raleigh. (With exception for holiday closures)

We do not offer Sunday pickup or delivery except for weddings or catered events. Please plan ahead for pickup on Saturday.

Delivery

We offer delivery based based on time/distance from our commercial bakery location in Wake Forest, Monday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm, for all custom and signature cake orders. This delivery map and pricing does not apply for Weddings and Catered Events.

Our cakes stay fresh and delicious in the fridge for 2-3 days, so pickup/delivery can be the day before an event without worry.

Online Ordering FAQ for Signature Cakes

Find answers about ordering through our online shop, including how Signature Cakes differ from custom orders, what can be personalized, and how scheduling works. This section also covers pickup, local delivery, lead times, and what to expect after placing an order.

What are Signature Cakes and ready to bake designs?

Signature Cakes are our curated collection of pre designed cakes that offer a more streamlined ordering option than a fully custom cake. They are ideal for customers who want a polished, premium design with limited personalization such as flavor, size, color adjustments, or message text, without going through the full custom design process.

Signature Cakes are part of our curated collection of designs that can be ordered online with limited customization. Custom Cakes are designed specifically for your event and usually require an inquiry, pricing review, and manual booking process.

All Signature Cake orders require 3 business day lead time at the moment. We do not offer same day options for our cakes as everything is made from scratch and made to order. 

This means we are sold out for that day or otherwise closed/unavailable (on holidays, for example).

Important Note!
If a previous day is available, you can place an order as our cakes stay fresh in the fridge for a couple of days. 

Customization options vary by design, but typically include things like flavor, size, color palette, message text, or select design details. Signature Cakes are intended to keep the ordering process simpler and more streamlined than a fully custom order.

Flavor and filling options are purposely limited because while we still bake Signature cakes from scratch, we do so in small batch production. Your <insert flavor here> Cake is being made with other <insert flavor here> cakes as part of the same small batch in our commercial ovens. Same for buttercreams which we make in small batch in the quantity needed for that day for all of the cakes utilizing it. 

This small batch method is what allows us to produce scratch made cakes so quickly and with such little notice (most grocery stores need 48-72 hours and theirs are frozen!)


We always recommend ordering as early as possible. Some simpler orders may be accommodated with shorter notice, but many dates book up well in advance, especially weekends and holiday periods.

For Signature Cakes, if the date is available, you can safely place the order. Our intent is to scale capacity as needed for our Signature collection. 

 

Minor changes may be possible depending on timing and the type of order, but changes are not guaranteed once production planning begins. Any request for changes requires at least 5 full business days notice. Please email info@raleighcake.com for your change request and we will do our best to accommodate. 

 

Your order is only confirmed once payment is completed and you receive confirmation from our system or team. We do not hold dates or production space without payment.

For Signature Cake orders, the design is based on the selected listing and available customization options. If you are looking for something different or highly specific, a custom inquiry is the better fit.

 

Custom Orders FAQ

Everything you need to know about our custom cake process, from design inquiries and pricing to revisions, booking, and production timelines. This section is helpful for customers looking for a one of a kind cake designed specifically for their event.

How do I place a custom cake order?

Custom orders begin with an inquiry form where you share your event date, servings, budget, inspiration, and overall vision. From there, we review availability and provide pricing guidance or next steps based on the scope of the request.

Custom cake pricing is based on factors like size, servings, design complexity, structure, decorative work, materials, and production time. Final pricing reflects both the design requirements and the labor involved in creating the cake.

 

For hyper-realistic, carved, or themed cakes (animals, food replicas, vehicles, etc.) here are some general starting prices. Like any custom cake, it all depends on the details, complexity, serving count, etc.

Sculpted Cake StyleBase Price (Starting At)
Small sculpted cake$225 minimum
Medium 3D cake (~30 servings)$300–$400+
Large centerpiece cake$10+ per serving

Note: These cakes require extensive hours of work and are priced for both labor and structural support. Serving size may not reflect carving waste.

Yes. We provide pricing information before booking whenever possible so customers can determine whether the design and budget are aligned.

 

Custom cakes generally start at a higher price point than Signature Cakes because they involve original design planning and more labor intensive work. 

As a general idea, here base starting prices for different custom cake types:

Cake Size / TierApprox. ServingsBase Price (Starting At)
6″ round (single tier)~12 servings$100
8″ round (single tier)~24 servings$130
10″ round (single tier)~38 servings$175
2-tier (6″ + 8″)~30 servings$200
3-tier (6″ + 9″ + 12″ not for wedding)~75 servings$325
4-tier (custom stacked sizes)100+ servings$500

Note: Fondant finish adds +$1–$2.50 per serving. Sugar flowers, figurines, and hand-painted elements are quoted separately and based on detail/complexity.

We can absolutely use inspiration photos to guide the design direction, but we do not guarantee an exact 1 to 1 replica. Our goal is to create a cake that captures the agreed vision while still reflecting our own execution and craftsmanship.

Those elements are often much more labor intensive than they may appear in photos and can significantly affect pricing. If a design includes custom toppers, sculpted figures, sugar flowers, hand painting, or other specialty details, we will price accordingly or suggest alternatives that better fit your budget.

At our discretion, we may provide design guidance, reference direction, or occasional mockup materials when appropriate, but custom cake booking does not typically include extensive ongoing rendering or repeated visual mockups unless specifically stated.

We allow a reasonable level of refinement during the design process, but repeated revisions, major concept changes, or last minute redesigns may not be possible and may incur additional charges.

 

We recommend inquiring as early as possible. Many custom orders, especially for weekends and busy seasons, book out well in advance.

 

No. Dates are not reserved until the required payment has been made. Availability can change quickly, and we cannot guarantee space without a confirmed booking.

 

Date changes may be possible depending on notice and availability, but they are not guaranteed. Requests made close to the event date are much harder to accommodate.

See https://raleighcakes.com/terms-of-service/

Because custom cakes are made specifically for each order, payments are generally non refundable once the order is booked and production planning has begun. Full policy details should be reviewed in our terms and booking materials.

See https://raleighcakes.com/terms-of-service/

Wedding and Catered Events FAQ

Explore answers related to wedding cakes, dessert tables, and larger event orders, including tastings, consultations, booking timelines, design planning, delivery, setup, and payment structure. This section is intended for couples, planners, and customers coordinating more involved event service.

Do you offer wedding cakes?

Yes. We offer wedding cakes in a range of styles, from smaller cutting cakes to larger tiered designs, depending on your guest count, design preferences, and event needs.

 

The right size depends on three things:
your guest count, how you plan to serve it, and your desired display size

Wedding cakes are typically portioned into wedding slices (about 1″ x 2″), which are smaller than standard party slices. This allows a tiered cake to serve more guests than people often expect.

Below is a general guide based on standard wedding servings:

If your guest count falls between sizes, we can:

  • Add a small cutting cake

  • Adjust tier diameters slightly

  • Supplement with sheet cakes (kept in the kitchen)

  • Pair your cake with additional desserts

If you prefer larger dessert-style slices (2″ x 2″), plan for about 25–30% fewer servings from the same cake size.

For example:
A cake listed at 100 wedding servings may serve closer to 70–75 generous party slices.

Not Every Guest Eats Cake

If you’re also offering:

  • Dessert tables

  • Late-night treats

  • Multiple dessert options

You may be able to size down slightly.

If cake is the only dessert, we recommend covering at least 90–100% of your guest count.

Our Recommendation

Tell us your confirmed guest count, and we’ll recommend the most balanced tier combination so your cake looks beautiful, proportioned, and serves comfortably without excess waste.

Because your cake should be just as thoughtfully sized as it is designed.

Yes, depending on availability and event scope, we may offer dessert table items and other event dessert options in addition to cake.

 

We recommend reaching out as early as possible, especially for weddings and larger catered events. Popular dates can book many months in advance.

 

For wedding clients we offer a Wedding Tasting Box so you can sample flavors at home and make confident decisions. You choose three flavors and we prepare them as gourmet cupcakes, scratch made just for you. The tasting box cost is twenty five dollars and is credited toward your final wedding cake order once confirmed, with a minimum wedding order value. Tasting Boxes have a 1-2 week lead time. 

Wedding cake pricing depends on servings, design complexity, tier count, structure, setup requirements, delivery logistics, and decorative details. Final pricing is tailored to the specific event and design.

Our wedding cakes are designed in consultation with you and often include custom elements like textured finishes, florals, monograms, or themes.

Wedding Cake TypeBase Price Per Serving (Starting At)
Buttercream finish (classic/elegant)$6.50 per serving
Fondant finish (luxury/detailed)$8 per serving
Hand-piped or painted detailsQuoted upon consultation
Groom’s cake (add-on)Quoted as Custom Cake

We are happy to bake for weddings of any size without a minimum. However, tasting box credits are applicable only to wedding orders valued over $250.

A 50%  deposit is required to reserve your date. 

Yes, wedding cakes and certain larger event orders are typically delivered and, when needed, professionally set up on site. This helps protect the cake during transport and ensures proper presentation.

Pricing is quoted based on the logistics for the event but typically range from $60 to $120 within the Triangle.

Yes. We are happy to coordinate with planners, venues, and other event professionals as needed to help ensure a smooth delivery and setup process.

Your date is only secured once the required payment has been received and your booking is confirmed. We do not hold event dates without a completed booking.

 

Adjustments may be possible within the planning timeline, but major design, serving, or date changes may affect pricing and are not guaranteed, especially as the event date gets closer (usually within weeks of the event date)

We have a generous schedule for changes and revisions and date changes that are outlined in our wedding contract.

 

Because wedding and event orders involve reserved production capacity, planning time, and scheduling commitments, payments due become non refundable under the terms of your booking following our scheduling timeline at set intervals and based on event date/time of request. We do allow for date transfers when notice and availability allow according to our contract terms. 

Yes, when appropriate, additional serving cakes may be offered as a practical way to increase guest count while keeping the displayed cake size and design more streamlined.

Cake Care Guide

At Raleigh Cakes, each cake is made to order and often finished with delicate details that require a little extra care once it leaves our hands. Please review the guidelines below to help ensure your cake stays safe, beautiful, and delicious until it is served.

Why Your Cake Tastes & Feels Different

Our cakes are scratch-made in a butter-forward style that falls between a classic butter cake and a light pound cake. This creates richness, depth of flavor, and structure for custom design work — not the airy sponge of grocery store cakes.

We pair this with Swiss meringue buttercream made from real butter and egg whites (not shortening). It’s less sweet and silkier, and it needs to be brought to room temperature before serving for ideal texture.

Cakes should always be transported on a flat, level surface such as the floorboard or trunk of a vehicle, not on a seat or in someone’s lap. Keep the vehicle cool and avoid sudden stops, sharp turns, or long periods without air conditioning. Cakes are fragile and can shift or become damaged during transport if not handled carefully.

All cakes should be kept refrigerated until serving time and removed based on the time table suggested. 

Store the cake in its original box to prevent drying and to protect the finish. Avoid humidity, direct sunlight, and warm environments prior to your event.

Buttercream and fillings can soften quickly in warm environments, especially during spring and summer or in direct sunlight. Never leave your cake in a hot car for even 5 minutes. 

Our cakes MUST be brought fully to room temperature before serving.

Remove the cake from refrigeration, below is typically sufficient:

• 2 hours before serving for smaller single-tier cakes
• 3-4 hours before serving for medium cakes
• 5-6 hours before serving for multi tiered and larger cakes

Keep the cake boxed while it tempers.

This step is essential.

Swiss meringue buttercream is made with real butter, which firms when chilled, as butter does, because, well, it’s butter.  If the cake is cut and served while cold, the buttercream can feel and taste dense or waxy and the cake may seem firm and dry. Once warmed (naturally, do not force it) to room temp, the buttercream becomes silky and smooth, and the cake softens to its intended texture.

Do not attempt to speed this process up. It must happen naturally. Using a microwave, oven, stove, heater, ray gun, flamethrower, bonfire, torch, nuclear reactor or any other form of heat as a means to speed the process will not work and will almost certainly ruin the cake design and make a mess.

Under no conditions should you attempt to speed this process up. It must happen naturally. Using a microwave, oven, stove, heater, ray gun, flamethrower, bonfire, torch, nuclear reactor or any other form of heat as a means to speed the process will not work and will almost certainly ruin the cake design and make a mess.

Our cakes are made from scratch using real butter and premium ingredients. Unlike grocery store cakes made with shortening-based frosting, real butter-based buttercream changes texture with temperature.

Cold cake of this style will always feel firmer, taste drier, and have muted flavors. Room temperature cake delivers the proper flavor, softness, and mouthfeel.

Need a demonstration? Take a stick of butter out of the fridge. How does it feel? 
Now leave it on the counter for an hour, what changed?

    This is not optional. Our cakes must be allowed to come to room temperature fully before serving.

If your event is outdoors, please keep in mind that heat, humidity, wind, and direct sun can all affect the stability and appearance of your cake. Buttercream can soften, fondant can sweat, and decorative elements can shift in outdoor conditions. We strongly recommend keeping the cake indoors or in a shaded, climate controlled environment until shortly before display and service.

Worth repeating, DO NOT leave the cake in a hot car or direct sun, even for 5 minutes.

Many cakes include delicate decorative details such as toppers, wafer paper, chocolate work, fondant accents, florals, or support elements. Some decorations may be fully edible, while others may need to be removed before serving. If your cake includes fresh flowers, wooden dowels, support straws, wires, or non edible toppers, these should be removed before slicing and serving.

Warning: Do not give fondant figures to small children without supervision and without removing supportive materials first. Assume all fondant figurines/sculpted cakes include such materials.

Use a clean sharp knife and wipe the blade between cuts for cleaner slices. Tiered cakes, sculpted cakes, and cakes with support structures may require a slightly different cutting approach, so follow any serving instructions we provide for those designs. If your cake includes hidden supports or dowels, please remove them carefully during service.

We include a cake care guide with every order which includes the preferred “slab” method for cutting cakes. 

Raleigh Cakes is not responsible for damage that occurs after pickup, after delivery is completed and accepted, or from improper handling, storage, or environmental conditions. This includes damage caused by heat, travel, setup by others, or delays in refrigeration.

Leftover cake should be wrapped well or stored in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Most cake is best enjoyed within several days. Refrigerated leftovers should be brought slightly closer to room temperature before eating for best texture and flavor.

Some cakes require special handling depending on the design, finish, filling, or structure. If there are special instructions for your order, we will provide them at pickup or delivery. Please follow those instructions first, as they take priority over general guidelines.

For all other questions, please contact us at info@raleighcakes.com
About Us

At Raleigh Cakes, we create custom cakes for all occasions, curated Ready to Bake Signature designs, and bespoke wedding cakes, all made from scratch with real, premium ingredients. From birthdays and showers to weddings and milestone celebrations, every cake is baked to order and crafted with intention. Our work ranges from elegant layered buttercream designs to sculpted and themed centerpieces, with the same small batch care baked into every bite. Whether you’re serving 10 guests or 300, you’ll receive our signature attention to detail, thoughtful design, and cakes that truly taste as good as they look.

At Raleigh Cakes, we don’t just bake, we create edible moments worth remembering.

Order Inquiries
  • info@raleighcakes.com
  • Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
  • 919-867-0050