Aptly named The Sweetest Things, Cary’s newest bakery offers a plethora of tempting treats — and not just the edible kind.
Effervescent Owner/Baker Melanie Brown opened the shop in mid-February, and locals are now loving her scratch-made cookies, cupcakes, brownies, cheesecakes and more. The bakery is easily accessible, albeit somewhat tucked away in MacGregor Square near Highway 64 on Lake Pine Drive.
“It’s a blessing to be able to open, because I love to feed people,” Brown said during a recent conversation. “We did a Kickstarter campaign (which met and exceeded the $15,000 funding goal), because we’re trying to do this business as debt-free as possible.”
Originally from Connecticut, Brown is a mostly self-taught baker who did not attend pastry school. But that doesn’t stop her from sharing her passion for baking.
“Of all the things I make, I love pound cake the most,” she revealed. “I like to take flavors people are familiar with like buttermilk and lemon, but I can also do sweet potato pie and caramel apple.”
When it comes to the best-selling item, the colossal chocolate chunk cookie comes out on top. Cookie sandwiches and woopie pies come in traditional and jumbo sizes.
“We like to say our portions are shareable,” Brown said with a smile.
Editorial tip: Buy the carrot cake cupcake with cream cheese icing. You can thank us later.
Brown also strives to make gluten-free and vegan items readily available.
“I have food allergies myself, so I know the importance of making gluten-free items accessible,” she said.
Custom cakes and other large dessert orders should be placed at least 48 hours in advance.
Local delivery within 15 miles is free for orders of $50 or more.
In addition to display cases featuring baked goods, you’ll find shelves showcasing locally made artisan products created by small businesses like Leluna Star (handmade children’s dolls), Pretty Clever Words (T-shirts and hand towels) and Back to the South Bling (cups, mugs and accessories).
“We are big on shopping small and believe in supporting local businesses that offer great products,” Brown explained.
The Sweetest Things is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12-6 p.m. Visit early in the day for the best selection.
“The outpouring of support has been amazing so far,” said Brown. “We want to make people happy and serve the community the best we can.”
The Sweetest Things
1881 Lake Pine Drive, Cary
(984) 538-0316
