Have you ever been to a birthday party and been completely blown away by the cake magic you see before you? I know I have. And I have even ordered or picked up a few fancy cakes myself, because I do not want to subject my kids to my Pinterest fail-worthy “artistry”. While grocery stores do have some lovely cake options, we are talking today about how to get yourself a beautiful, special occasion cake that will impress, from local Lake County small businesses. While a few have some pre-made options, we recommend you order yours in advance. Here are a few of my favorite places to find Lake County’s best birthday cakes.
Couture Cupcake Cafe
20771 N. Rand Rd., Kildeer | (847) 438-9300
1157 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette | (847) 728-0509
Known for their incredible cupcakes, those flavors can also be turned into big old flavorful cakes. This bakery also has gluten-free, low-sugar, low-calorie, and vegan varieties. Couture Cupcake Cafe is meticulous with details. I wish you luck in picking just one of the many, many flavor options here.
Dalton’s Cakes
970 Harris Rd., #2A, Grayslake | (847) 223-2344
When my son special requested a particular cake, green with Rocky from Paw Patrol, sprinkles, and a few other details for our small family gathering, they happily obliged and it was delicious. The owners could not be more kind and adorable. Located on the edge of Prairie Crossing, this cute little shop caters to special dietary needs. Dalton’s offer sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and the facility is peanut-free. Just ask if you need something special, such as no artificial food colorings. Read Little Lake County’s review of Dalton’s Cakes to learn more.
Somethings Brewing
1126 E. Washington Street, Grayslake | (847) 543-1600
82 E. Center Street, Grayslake | (847) 543-8600
This coffee and lunch spot with a bakery has now added custom-made cakes to the menu. Usually one or two are available for sale at the counter, but be sure to put your order in early to get exactly what you would like!
Deerfields Bakery
813 N. Waukegan Rd., Deerfield | (847) 520-0068
201 N. Buffalo Grove Rd., Buffalo Grove | (847) 520-0068
A local favorite for all things sweet, Deerfields is one of the only bakeries in the area open on a Monday, which may or may not have saved us on a family member’s birthday this year. The cakes are delicious, and both locations feature a gorgeous selection of pre-made cakes for pick-up, but will also custom-tailor cakes to your specifications.
Lovin Oven Cakery
2207 N. Rt. 83, Round Lake Beach | (847) 231-4700
355 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville | (224) 207-4500
Some of the coolest cakes I have seen at kids parties have come from here. From a colorful waterfall with jungle animals to beautiful princess-themed creation, they can go all out with the details. If you may have forgotten until the last minute, they have all kinds of pre-made cake options for you to pick up on your way to a party.
Sweet Discoveries
388 Lake Street, Antioch | (262) 914-5058
This specialty cake shop in Antioch is open for cupcakes on Saturdays, but otherwise, email them for your special cake order. They have been featured on The Knot for several years for their amazing wedding cakes. Personalization is also available for your baptism, birthday, graduation or any other special occasion cake.
Did we miss any? Where is your favorite place in Lake County to get a cake?
I love the cakes I’ve gotten from Mika’s Old World Bakery in Lake Zurich. Their donuts are also delicious.
The Heart of Europe in Barrington!!! Amazing.