One of Palette Cakes' specialties is the handmade sugar flowers they use to decorate their cakes. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - A blend of artistry and indulgence, Palette Cakes is transforming the dessert scene in Carmichael and beyond.

The bakery, known for its visually stunning cakes and pastries, celebrates the delicate fusion of flavor and design. From sugar flowers handcrafted with care to a menu that evokes both nostalgia and sophistication, Palette Cakes offers something special for every occasion.

Founded by Kellie Velasquez, an artist and pastry chef with a background in French culinary techniques, and Carlos Velasquez, Palette Cakes opened its doors in February. Prior to launching the bakery, Velasquez ran a cottage food bakery from her home for nearly a decade.

“It’s been a dream come true,” said Kellie Velasquez, reflecting on the transition to a storefront. “We’ve always wanted to open a bakery. It’s such a privilege to serve the public beyond just the wedding world.”

The name of the bakery is a perfect reflection of its mission.

“Palette is like a painter’s palette,” said Kellie Velasquez. “It’s a play on words, connecting the concept of flavor with art. We wanted a name that would reflect our brand of artfully inspired desserts.”

Palette Cakes is known for its luxurious yet approachable custom cakes. From weddings to corporate events, Velasquez creates cakes with intricate details, often incorporating edible sugar flowers, delicate textures, and painterly techniques.

Carlos and Kellie Velasquez have just announced their Christmas pre-order menu, which includes a delightful selection of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, tarts, and more. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

 

“We take our time ensuring everything tastes right before putting it out to the public,” said Kellie Velasquez. “The biggest thing that sets us apart is the attention to detail. Our cakes and desserts aren’t just beautiful, they’re delicious.”

For those looking to indulge this holiday season, Palette Cakes is offering a special Christmas pre-order menu.

“Christmas and Thanksgiving are the best times for a baker,” said Kellie Velasquez. “It’s such an honor to be a part of people’s traditions or become a tradition of theirs.”

Customers can pre-order five different cakes, each decorated with hand-piped Christmas trees, snowflakes, gingerbread men, and more. The bakery is also offering holiday cookie boxes filled with decorated sugar cookies or cupcakes, tarts and other treats.

Palette Cakes has made ordering easy. Customers can visit the bakery’s website to browse the Christmas menu, which includes serving instructions and detailed product descriptions. Pre-orders are required to be paid in advance, and they typically respond within 48 hours.

The bakery also offers a variety of retail items, including individual tarts, 6-inch cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more, all available for grab-and-go service.

“We want people to be able to pop in and pick up something truly special for any occasion,” said Kellie Velasquez.

Palette Cakes is not just a business for Velasquez and her husband, Carlos. It’s a family affair, with both deeply involved in every aspect of the bakery.

“It’s a two-person operation, so balance can be challenging, but we work really well together,” said Kellie Velasquez. “Carlos has a background in construction, so he helped us build out this space from the ground up.”

When asked for advice for fellow bakers, Carlos Velasquez emphasized the importance of “staying positive and being humble.”

Kellie Velasquez added, “There will be times during the process when you'll want to pull your hair out, but if you love it, it's worth it. Keep pushing forward and persevere.”

Carlos and Kellie Velasquez, the owners of Palette Cakes, proudly display some of the delicious treats available at their bakery. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

The community has responded warmly to Palette Cakes’ opening, with the bakery quickly earning recognition. In its first year, Palette Cakes won the title of “Best Dessert Place in Carmichael,” a significant achievement for the couple. They’ve also been featured in several bridal magazines for their stunning wedding cakes, another milestone in their growing business.

Looking ahead, the Velasquezes are content with the pace of their expansion.

“We’re not in a rush to grow too quickly,” said Kellie Velasquez. “We want to make sure we’re always providing the best quality product and experience for our customers. Baby steps are the key.”

Palette Cakes is open Fridays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. during December, with special hours for Christmas Eve (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and New Year’s Eve (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Starting in January, the bakery will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.

For those with dietary restrictions, Palette Cakes offers gluten-free options upon pre-order.

Palette Cakes is located at 7901 Fair Oaks Blvd., Carmichael.

Visit their website palettecakes.com/, for more information and to place your holiday pre-orders.