Simply Desserts in Charleston: Cupcakes, Cakes, and Custom Orders

What Simply Desserts offers and where to find it

Simply Desserts is a Charleston-based bakery specializing in cupcakes, custom cakes, and dessert orders for events and everyday indulgence. Located in the heart of Charleston, the shop focuses on made-to-order items and seasonal flavors alongside their regular cupcake lineup. You can order in person, by phone, or through their website for pickup or delivery depending on your location and order size.

The bakery operates with a small-batch approach, meaning flavors and availability change based on the season and current demand. Unlike chain cupcake shops, Simply Desserts works closely with customers on custom orders—wedding cakes, birthday cakes, cupcake towers, and themed dessert tables for events. This personal touch is part of what sets them apart in Charleston's competitive dessert scene.

Key Takeaways

• Simply Desserts makes cupcakes fresh to order and also creates custom cakes for weddings, birthdays, and special events.
• You can order in person at their Charleston location, by phone, or online, with options for pickup or delivery depending on your order.
• Flavors rotate seasonally, so calling ahead or checking their current menu online helps you find what you want.
• Custom orders require advance notice—typically at least a week for smaller cakes and longer for wedding cakes or large events.
• Pricing varies by flavor, size, and customization, so requesting a quote for custom work is the best way to understand costs.

Cupcake flavors and seasonal offerings

Simply Desserts rotates their cupcake menu regularly, with core flavors usually available year-round and seasonal specials that change with the time of year. Vanilla, chocolate, and red velvet are typically in stock, but the bakery also experiments with flavors like lemon, salted caramel, and fruit-forward options during spring and summer. Fall brings spiced and pumpkin-based flavors, while winter often features peppermint, eggnog, and chocolate-heavy combinations.

Each cupcake comes with frosting and a topping—some are simple and elegant, others decorated with sprinkles, candies, or fresh fruit. The bakery also offers vegan and gluten-free cupcake options on request, though these typically need advance notice. Calling ahead or checking their social media pages gives you the most current list of what's available that week.

Custom cakes and event orders

Beyond cupcakes, Simply Desserts takes custom cake orders for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and other celebrations. You work directly with the bakery to choose your cake flavor, frosting, size, and design. They can create tiered wedding cakes, sheet cakes for office parties, cupcake towers for receptions, and themed cakes for children's birthdays.

Custom orders require planning ahead. Small to medium cakes (serving 10 to 30 people) typically need one to two weeks' notice, while wedding cakes and large event orders should be discussed at least three to four weeks in advance. This lead time allows the bakery to source ingredients, plan the design, and ensure quality. You'll usually have a consultation—in person or by phone—to discuss your vision, budget, and any dietary restrictions.

How to place an order

The simplest way to order is to visit Simply Desserts in person during business hours. You can see the current cupcake selection, ask questions about flavors, and place a same-day or future order. For custom cakes, an in-person visit or phone consultation helps the baker understand your vision and provide an accurate quote.

If you prefer to order remotely, call the bakery directly to discuss your needs and confirm availability. Many customers also use the bakery's website or social media to view recent work and current offerings, then reach out to place their order. Pickup is the standard option, though delivery may be available for larger orders within Charleston and surrounding areas—ask about delivery fees and distance limits when you order.

Pricing and payment

Cupcake pricing is straightforward: individual cupcakes cost less than a dozen, and dozens are discounted. Seasonal or specialty flavors may cost slightly more than the standard lineup. Custom cakes are priced based on size, flavor, frosting complexity, and design work, so there's no single price—a simple sheet cake costs far less than a multi-tiered wedding cake with hand-piped details.

When you request a custom order, the bakery provides a quote after you describe what you want. Payment methods typically include cash, card, and digital payment options. Many bakeries require a deposit to hold your order date, with the balance due at pickup. Confirm payment terms and any cancellation policy when you place your order.

Dietary options and ingredient transparency

Simply Desserts can accommodate vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free requests, though these options usually require advance notice so the bakery can prepare them separately and avoid cross-contamination. If you have a severe allergy, discuss it directly with the baker—they can tell you which flavors and frostings are safe for your needs and which shared equipment is used.

The bakery is transparent about ingredients and happy to discuss what goes into each cupcake or cake. If you're ordering for someone with specific dietary needs, call ahead rather than assuming—it ensures the baker can prepare something safe and delicious for your event.

Visiting Simply Desserts in Charleston

Simply Desserts is located in Charleston's walkable downtown or nearby neighborhood areas, making it easy to stop by while exploring the city. The shop itself is small and focused, with a display case showing current cupcakes and photos of past custom work. Staff can answer questions about flavors, help you choose, and take orders on the spot.

Hours vary seasonally, so checking their website or calling before you visit ensures they're open. The bakery is popular for last-minute cupcake orders and for customers planning ahead for events, so arriving early in the day gives you the best selection of flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order cupcakes for same-day pickup?

Yes, if Simply Desserts has your flavor in stock that day, you can often pick up cupcakes the same day you order. Calling ahead or visiting in person gives you the best chance of getting exactly what you want. For custom orders or large quantities, advance notice is better.

How far in advance do I need to order a wedding cake?

Most bakeries recommend three to four weeks for wedding cakes, though Simply Desserts may accommodate shorter timelines depending on their schedule. Contact them as soon as you know your date to discuss what's possible and to secure your order date.

Do you deliver, and how much does it cost?

Delivery depends on your order size and location within Charleston and the surrounding area. Call the bakery to ask about delivery availability, distance limits, and fees. Pickup is always an option and often the most affordable choice.

What if I need a gluten-free or vegan cake?

Simply Desserts can make gluten-free and vegan cakes with advance notice. Call to discuss your dietary needs, confirm they can accommodate your request, and allow extra time for preparation. Ask about pricing, as specialty ingredients may affect the cost.

Can I see photos of past cakes before I order?

Yes. Visit the bakery in person to see a portfolio, or ask to see photos when you call or visit their website. This helps you understand their style and discuss design ideas for your custom order.