Is a celebration complete without cake? If asked that question, many would exclaim with a resounding “no.” This timeless comfort food accompanies people through their most significant moments, from birthday parties to weddings and major milestones. But even then, not all cakes are the same, and the patrons of Caroline’s Cakes, a beloved Southern bakery, would argue that none beat Caroline’s classic creations.
The story of Caroline’s Cakes began in 1982 with Caroline Ragsdale Reutter delivering her first iconic 7-layer caramel cake at her son Richard’s christening. This very cake soon set a precedent, becoming the cornerstone of family celebrations and a symbol of hospitality across the southern states.
Built from her home, Caroline’s business offered luxurious cakes on a small scale for years. It was not until the early 2000s that things changed with a bold order from a financial firm, which tested the limits of the home-based operation by demanding thousands of cakes. Despite only being able to produce eight cakes per day at the time, Caroline did not shy away. Instead, she expanded her kitchen, a decision that started the journey that led to the bakery’s national acclaim.
As Caroline’s Cakes grew, so did its menu and reach, and its presence extended beyond the local area to dessert tables across the country. With Caroline at the helm, the bakery continued to see success, with the visionary founder constantly innovating with new recipes. However, in 2017, the visionary founder passed on, leaving her son Richard Reutter to lead the company much sooner than planned.
Despite his grief, Richard still wanted to find a way to make the bakery succeed, and in true Caroline’s Cakes fashion, he figured it all out with a recipe. Discovered during a moment of reflection in his mother’s office, the recipe for a champagne-flavored cake was paired with a note that said, “Try that next.”
Now a bestseller, the Pink Champagne Cake is a testament to the enduring love of a family for their matriarch and their craft. From the traditional 7-Layer Caramel Cake to the tasty treats created since, the bakery has stayed true to its goal of serving as a conduit of joy and celebration.
In every layer of caramel, every sprinkle, and every slice, Caroline’s influence is palpable, making each cake not just a treat but a part of a beloved tradition. As Richard says, “Eat cake. Be happy.” This simple yet profound philosophy encapsulates the essence of Caroline’s Cakes.
Recently, we had a chance to experience Caroline’s Cakes for ourselves. The first thing that stood out was the price tag, which hit a whopping $70 for a carrot cake. But while the price tag was quite high, so was the quality of the product. Caroline’s carrot cake is quite the luxury, and the five-pound masterpiece is easily worth its price tag, providing a balance of decadence with a moist texture and rich flavor that proved irresistible.
For the younger palettes, there were lovely lemon and caramel cake bites that served as a delightful treat. Thoughtfully crafted to appeal to children without being overly sweet, these bites were a joyous addition to the tasting, allowing the kids to indulge in more than one without any reservations.
Whether you’re celebrating a special day or simply seeking comfort, Caroline’s Cakes delivers not just a decadent dessert but a piece of heartfelt Southern tradition right to your doorstep.
This article was originally published in High Net Worth Magazine.
