Chicago's Best Bakeries for Smash Cakes
First things first: when you book a cake smash session at our Edgewater studio, the cake is included. We work with a local baker to provide a custom smash cake that is color-coordinated to your baby's outfit and the session setup, and it is part of the session price. You do not need to order a separate cake for the photo shoot.
So why are we writing about bakeries? Because the question we hear most often after "what should my baby wear?" is: "Where should I get the cake for the birthday party?" Parents are already thinking about the first birthday celebration, and a great party cake is part of that. Here are five Chicago bakeries we love and trust for smash-style cakes and first birthday cakes.
What Makes a Good Smash Cake?
Whether you are ordering a cake for a party or a DIY photo shoot at home, a smash cake should be:
- Small. A 4-inch or 6-inch round cake is the right size. A full sheet cake will overwhelm the baby and the photo frame.
- Soft frosting. Buttercream, not fondant. Babies need to be able to dig their fingers into it. Fondant looks pretty but it is a hard shell that babies cannot break through easily.
- Baby-safe ingredients. No honey (unsafe under 12 months), ideally low sugar. Many bakeries offer a "smash cake" option with reduced sugar buttercream.
- Photogenic. Pastel colors, rosettes, sprinkles, or a simple drip design all photograph well. Avoid cakes that are too dark — dark chocolate ganache does not show up well against dark skin tones or dark backgrounds.
A well-made smash cake is small, soft, colorful, and designed to be destroyed by tiny hands.
Our Favorite Chicago Bakeries
Alliance Bakery
Alliance Bakery has been a neighborhood staple in Wicker Park for years, and they do beautiful custom cakes in all sizes. Their buttercream work is excellent — smooth, colorful, and perfectly photogenic. They are experienced with smash cake orders and can do allergen-friendly versions on request. Expect to pay around $30-50 for a small custom smash cake. Order at least a week in advance for custom designs.
Roeser's Bakery
Roeser's is a Chicago institution, family-owned since 1911. Their cakes are classic, dependable, and reasonably priced. They offer standard smash cake sizes and can customize colors and basic decorations. If you want a traditional American buttercream cake without fuss, Roeser's is your bakery. Their prices are among the most affordable in the city for custom cake work, typically $25-40 for a small round.
Bennison's Bakery
Technically just north of Chicago in Evanston, Bennison's is worth the trip. Their cakes are made from scratch with premium ingredients, and their decorating team can do everything from simple rosettes to elaborate custom designs. They are known for their moist cake layers and real buttercream. For North Side and North Shore families, Bennison's is often the go-to choice. Budget $35-55 for a custom smash cake.
Sweet Mandy B's
Sweet Mandy B's is famous for their cupcakes, but their custom cakes deserve the same attention. Everything is made in-house with quality ingredients, and their pastel buttercream designs are practically made for cake smash photos. They do a wonderful job with smaller cakes and can match specific color swatches. Smash cake orders run about $35-50. The Lincoln Park location is convenient for families on the North Side.
Dinkel's Bakery
Another legendary Chicago bakery, Dinkel's has been baking since 1922. Their cakes are hearty, delicious, and made with that old-school German bakery quality. They offer standard sizes including small rounds perfect for smashing, with custom colors and basic decorations. Dinkel's is an especially good choice if you want both a smash cake and a larger party cake from the same place — consistency in flavor and quality across sizes. Expect $30-45 for a smash cake.
Your studio session cake is included and color-coordinated. These bakeries are for the party cake.
Tips for Ordering a Smash Cake
- Order at least one week in advance. Custom cakes take time. Two weeks is even better for busy weekends.
- Specify "smash cake" when ordering. Most bakeries know the term and will automatically suggest a small size with soft frosting.
- Ask about allergens. If your baby has dairy, egg, or gluten sensitivities, ask about alternatives. Many of these bakeries offer vegan or allergen-friendly options.
- Bring a reference photo. If you have a specific color or style in mind, bring a screenshot. Bakers appreciate visual references.
- Pick it up the day of. Smash cakes look their best when fresh. If possible, pick up the morning of the party.
Remember: Your Studio Session Cake Is Covered
We want to emphasize this one more time: when you book a mini session or family session at our studio, the smash cake is included in the price. You do not need to order, pick up, transport, or worry about a cake for the photo shoot. We handle it. These bakery recommendations are specifically for your baby's birthday party or any other occasion where you want a great Chicago cake.
Book Your Studio Session
Mini sessions are $275 with a custom smash cake included. No need to bring anything except your baby and their outfit.
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