FAQs

FAQs and Food for Thought

Have questions about our cupcakes, catering or other sweet topics? Carefree Patisserie is here to help! Enjoy a little food for thought with answers to our most common questions!

How do I place an order?

The only way to place an order is to call or stop by the Patisserie in Valley Junction in West Des Moines. Click here for directions.

How do I reach you?

You can call our store at 515-277-0705 during normal business hours: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday, 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Thursday & Friday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday. Please note that we do not have a computer at the bakery (too much flour and powdered sugar in the air). We cannot guarantee a response to emails in a timely manner.

How far in advance do I need to order?

All of our cakes and cupcakes are baked to order. We have a very small facility so we need some time to acquire ingredients. We ask that you please notify us a week in advance. If you call and need it within 5 days, we will still try to help you out but cannot guarantee anything. Keep in mind that May, holidays and weekends are always busier – so the more notice, the better. We promise to do our best to get you what you want.

Is there a minimum or maximum I can order in the shop?

You can stop in for a single sweet cupcake or pick up as many as you can carry for all your friends. However, we prefer you call ahead for orders of more than 2 dozen cupcakes so other drop-in customers won’t be disappointed.

Is there a savings if I order more?

We keep our cupcakes at a very fair price. There are no discounts at this time.

How should I store my goodies?

Cupcakes are best served at room temperature. If you aren't going to eat them the same day, we recommend transferring them into an airtight container to keep them fresh. Cakes should be refrigerated, but allow at least 30 minutes at room temperature before serving. If you received one of our fabulous carved or sculpted cakes, please consult the bakery for best way to store the cake.

Can I freeze them?

We don't freeze any of our products at the bakery and cannot attest to the quality or taste should you choose to do so.

Are you a nut free facility?

No. We try to contain our peanut and nut-based products, but unfortunately we cannot safely recommend our products for anyone with severe allergies.

Can you make gluten-free cake?

No. We cannot guarantee there will be no flour contamination. Flour dust can remain airborne for 48 hours and you can imagine how much flour dust is flying around our bakery.

Do you offer sugar-free, low carb or no carb cupcakes?

Not yet, but we are working on the recipes!

Do you deliver or ship?

Not at this point, but that doesn't mean we never will.

Do you do custom cakes or cupcakes?

Of course! Custom cakes are our specialty, and we always enjoy a chance to try something new. Call with your ideas or stop by to browse photos.

Do you do weddings?

Every single weekend. Visit our Weddings section to learn more.

Do you have gift certificates?

Yes, in every denomination. Stop by the bakery to pick one up, or contact us to mail one to your favorite cake snob.

Do you donate to charity?

Of course! We know how important it is to give back to our community. Please understand, though, we are a very small company and have our charitable contribution budget planned before the fiscal year even begins. Read more about our Community Involvement in the About Us section.