Cake in a Cup: Toledo's Sweet Haven of All-Homemade Delights

by Jackie Jones Kapuscinski

In the heart of Toledo, Ohio, two dynamic women, Lori Jacobs and Dana Iliev, joined forces to create a haven for cupcake enthusiasts – Cake in a Cup. Founded in 2007, this bakery stands as Toledo's pioneer in the all-cupcake domain, showcasing a commitment to quality and freshness that has garnered local love and national recognition.

Lori and Dana, the proud owners, bakers, and frosters of Cake in a Cup, have cultivated a reputation for being quality perfectionists. Their philosophy revolves around using only the finest and freshest homemade ingredients, resulting in cupcakes that are not just delicious but also visually stunning. This dedication to excellence has kept customers coming back for more, making Cake in a Cup a beloved establishment within the community.

Over the years, Cake in a Cup has evolved into a local institution, serving up delightful, all-homemade, specialty cupcakes. The bakery's success reached new heights when it emerged victorious on Food Network's Cupcake Wars, a testament to the skill and innovation that Lori, Dana, and their hard-working staff infuse into their creations. This national recognition only fueled their passion for delivering exceptional cupcakes to their loyal customers.

In 2020, Cake in a Cup embarked on a new chapter in its journey, expanding its reach and offerings. The bakery invites patrons to explore its newly expanded location on Central Avenue, a spacious and airy environment filled with natural light and showcasing the heart and soul of the baking process. Lori and Dana take pride in the growth of Cake in a Cup, expressing gratitude for the support from the Toledo community.

"We're proud to be hometown bakers, and we're looking forward to serving more of our customers in our new Central Avenue location. We know you'll love our airy, glass-filled, conveniently-located (and expanded!) space," Lori Jacobs enthusiastically states.

What sets Cake in a Cup apart is not just the delectable cupcakes but also the transparency in their baking process. The bakery offers customers a unique opportunity to witness the magic unfold in the open kitchen. Visitors can walk right up, sit near the action, and observe Dana, Lori, and their talented staff in the midst of crafting these sweet masterpieces. It's an immersive experience that adds an extra layer of appreciation for the artistry behind each cupcake.

Toledoans, known for their love of unique food experiences, have played a crucial role in Cake in a Cup's success story. The loyalty and good taste of the community have been the driving force behind the bakery's flourishing journey. Dana Iliev, co-owner, shares her sentiments about the thriving relationship with the locals, saying, "We know Toledoans love discovering unique food experiences, and we've benefitted from your loyalty and good taste since 2007. We're proud to be flourishing in Toledo!"

As the journey continues, Cake in a Cup remains committed to innovation. The bakery introduces new offerings regularly, enticing customers with fresh and exciting flavors. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of Cake in a Cup, there's always something delightful to discover and savor.

Lori Jacobs and Dana Iliev have not only created a successful business but have become integral parts of the Toledo community. Their passion for baking, commitment to quality, and genuine connection with their customers have made Cake in a Cup more than just a bakery – it's a destination for those seeking a delightful escape into a world of homemade sweetness.

In conclusion, Cake in a Cup stands as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and community support. Lori Jacobs and Dana Iliev have not only crafted delectable cupcakes but have also created a space where people can come together to celebrate the joy of indulging in life's sweet moments. As Cake in a Cup continues to evolve and expand, the future looks just as promising and sweet as their signature treats.