Molly’s Cupcakes is more than just a bakery, it’s a heartfelt tribute brought to life. The story began with Johnny, the founder, who wanted to honor his beloved third-grade teacher, Molly, whose passion for baking and dedication to her students left a lasting impression on him. Years later, carrying the memory of Molly’s warmth and her kitchen filled with the scent of fresh-baked treats, Johnny left his corporate career behind and, in 2004, opened the very first Molly’s Cupcakes in a tiny storefront in Chicago with nothing more than a handful of cherished recipes, a secondhand oven, and an unwavering belief that food made with love could bring people together. Word spread quickly through the neighborhood, and lines began forming before the doors even opened each morning. By 2008, the brand had expanded to multiple locations across the city, and in 2012, Molly’s Cupcakes took its first steps beyond Illinois, bringing its signature flavors and community spirit to new cities across the country.
Today, that simple act of gratitude has blossomed into a beloved, community-driven brand, celebrated for its handcrafted, made-from-scratch desserts and genuine connection with the neighborhoods it serves. More than just a place to satisfy a sweet tooth, Molly’s Cupcakes continues to honor its founder’s roots through active community involvement, locally sourced ingredients, and a commitment to keeping every cupcake as personal and memorable as the story behind the name.
Molly’s Cupcakes Menu With Prices
Famous Centerfilled Cupcakes:
| Cupcake Name | Description | Notes | Starting Price |
| Crème Brûlée | Vanilla cake, classic crème brûlée custard, caramelized sugar, glazed berries. | Keep cold | $4.25 |
| Peach Cobbler | Vanilla streusel cake, cinnamon peach puree filling, homemade whipped cream, cinnamon dusting, peach slice. | Keep cold | $4.25 |
| Blueberry Cheesecake | Vanilla cake with blueberries and cheesecake baked in, homemade graham cracker pieces, cream cheese frosting mixed with more goodness. | Keep cold | $4.25 |
| Cookie Monster | Vanilla chocolate chip cake, raw cookie dough center, buttercream, mini chocolate chips, and a mini chocolate chip cookie. | $4.25 | |
| Ron Bennington | Chocolate cake, peanut butter filling, chocolate ganache, and crushed butterscotch topping. | $4.25 | |
| Strawberry Shortcake | Vanilla cake, cooked strawberry puree, pink & white whipped cream swirl, strawberry shortcake crumble. | Keep cold | $4.25 |
| Molten Chocolate | Flourless chocolate cake, dulce de leche ganache filling, french vanilla buttercream, and chocolate drizzle. | $4.25 | |
| Chocolate Decadence | Chocolate cake, chocolate mousse filling, chocolate ganache, chocolate curls. | $4.25 | |
| Cookies-n-Cream | Chocolate cake, cookies-n-cream filling, buttercream, cookie topping. | $4.25 | |
| Peanut Butter Nutella® | Peanut butter cake, Nutella® filling, Nutella® buttercream frosting, and dusting of cocoa powder. | $4.25 | |
| Samoa | Vanilla cake, coconut caramel filling, caramel buttercream, toasted coconut, shortbread cookie, and chocolate and caramel drizzle. | $4.25 | |
| Red Velvet Lava | Red Velvet cake, dulce ganache filling, french vanilla buttercream, ganache drizzle, red velvet cake crumbles. | $4.25 | |
| Salted Butterscotch Caramel | Vanilla cake, butterscotch caramel pudding, salted buttercream, and caramel drizzle. | $4.25 |
Classic Cupcakes
| Cupcake Name | Description | Starting Price |
| Vanilla Molly | Vanilla Molly | $3.25 |
| Chocolate Molly | Chocolate Molly | $3.25 |
| Red Velvet Molly | Red Velvet Molly | $3.25 |
| Carrot Molly | Carrot Molly | $3.25 |
| Banana Molly | Banana Molly | $3.25 |
| Vegan Vanilla Molly | Vegan Vanilla Molly | $3.25 |
| Vegan Chocolate Molly | Vegan Chocolate Molly | $3.25 |
| Vegan Red Velvet Molly | Vegan Red Velvet Molly | $3.25 |
Mini Cupcakes
| Item Name | Description | Price |
| 12 Assorted Minis | An assortment of our classic mini Molly cupcakes topped with sprinkles. | $24.00 |
| 12 Center-filled Minis | Our famous Centerfilled cupcakes in mini form! | $34.80 |
| 24 Assorted Minis | An assortment of our classic mini Molly cupcakes topped with sprinkles. | $48.00 |
| Mini Banana | – | $24.00 |
| Mini Vegan Vanilla | – | Starting at $24.00 |
| Mini Vegan Chocolate | – | Starting at $24.00 |
Assortments & Themed Cupcakes
| Item Name | Description | Price |
| 12 Assorted Centerfilled | An assortment of our specialty centerfilled cupcakes. These are what we’re most known for! | $46.75 |
| 12 Assorted Mollys | An assortment of our classic Molly cupcakes topped with sprinkles. | $35.75 |
| Unicorn Dozen | A dozen of our classic Molly cupcakes with a pink, purple, and teal buttercream swirl topped with a gold fondant unicorn horn. | $60.75 |
| Best Seller Box | A box of our four most popular cupcakes and a personalized notecard! Includes the Ron Bennington, Cookie Monster, Cake Batter, and one more. | $17.00 |
| Birthday Box – Classics | Classic cupcakes of your choice with pastel confetti sprinkles, half of them adorned with plastic Happy Birthday! toothpicks. | Starting at $15.50 |
| It’s A Baby! Box | Includes our centerfilled Cake Batter (sky blue frosting!) and centerfilled White Chocolate Raspberry (raspberry buttercream is pink!). | Starting at $16.00 |
| It’s a Boy! Box | Half centerfilled Cake Batter (sky blue frosting!) and half classic cupcakes of your choice. Includes personalized message. | Starting at $16.00 |
| It’s a Girl! Box | Half centerfilled White Chocolate Raspberry (pink raspberry buttercream!) and half classic cupcakes of your choice. Includes personalized message. | Starting at $16.00 |
| Football Dozen | A dozen of our classic cupcakes topped with a buttercream swirl and a football design done in our classic chocolate frosting. | $50.00 |
| Graduation Box | Classic cupcakes of your choice topped with sprinkles in school colors and plastic graduation cap toppers. Comes with a notecard. | Starting at $16.00 |
| Hydrangea & Rosette Dozen | Please specify which three colors you would like to include in the dozen in the special instructions. Decorated in floral designs. | $53.00 |
Gender Reveal
| Item Name | Description | Price |
| Gender Reveal – Vanilla | Our classic Vanilla Molly cupcake filled with either pink or blue buttercream and topped with your choice of frosting and… | $4.50 |
| Gender Reveal – Chocolate | Our classic Chocolate Molly cupcake filled with either pink or blue buttercream and topped with your choice of frosting and… | $4.50 |
| Gender Reveal – Red Velvet | Our classic Red Velvet Molly cupcake filled with either pink or blue buttercream and topped with your choice of frosting and… | $4.50 |
| Gender Reveal – Carrot | Our classic Carrot Molly cupcake filled with either pink or blue buttercream and topped with your choice of frosting and… | $4.50 |
| Gender Reveal – Banana | Our classic Banana Molly cupcake filled with either pink or blue buttercream and topped with your choice of frosting and… | $4.50 |
| Gender Reveal Cake – Design 1 | Three layers of cake (your choice from our classic flavors) filled with buttercream frosting dyed either pink or blue. | $4.50 |
| Gender Reveal Cake – Design 2 | Three layers of cake (your choice from our classic flavors) filled with buttercream frosting dyed either pink or blue. | $4.50 |
| Gender Reveal Cake – Design 3 | Three layers of cake (your choice from our classic flavors) filled with buttercream frosting dyed either pink or blue. | $4.50 |
Treats
| Item Name | Description | Price |
| Mini Cheesecake requires refrigeration | – | Starting at $5.50 |
| Cake Pop | Vanilla, chocolate, or red velvet cake ball dipped in chocolate and decorated with sprinkles or chocolate drizzle. | $2.75 |
| Chocolate Covered Oreos | Oreo cookies dipped in your choice of milk or white chocolate. | $2.75 |
| Cookies | Sugar Sprinkle, Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Sea Salt | $3.25 |
| Bars | Brownie and Rice Krispie Treats | $3.25 |
Cakes Menu
| Cake Name | Description |
| Blueberry Cheesecake Cake | Vanilla cake with cheesecake and blueberries baked in, cream cheese pastry cream filling, topped with sugared glazed berries. |
| Crème Brûlée Cake | Three layers of vanilla cake filled with classic crème brûlée custard, topped with caramelized sugar and glazed berries. |
| Molten Chocolate Cake (GF friendly) | Three layers of flourless chocolate cake with dulce ganache between layers, and French vanilla buttercream on top. |
| Peach Cobbler Cake | Vanilla cake with brown sugar streusel, filled with cinnamon peach puree, decorated with white buttercream, and cinnamon dusting. |
| Strawberry Shortcake Cake | Three layers of vanilla cake filled with strawberry filling, decorated with white buttercream, and strawberry shortcake crumble. |
| White Chocolate Raspberry Cake | Three layers of vanilla cake with raspberries baked in, filled with white chocolate mousse between layers, and buttercream frosting. |
| Banana Cake | Three layers of banana cake with your choice of buttercream, chocolate buttercream, or cream cheese frosting in between layers. |
| Carrot Cake | Three layers of carrot cake with your choice of buttercream, chocolate buttercream, or cream cheese frosting in between layers. |
| Red Velvet Cake | Three layers of red velvet cake with your choice of buttercream, chocolate buttercream, or cream cheese frosting in between layers. |
| Chocolate Cake | Three layers of chocolate cake with your choice of buttercream, chocolate buttercream, or cream cheese frosting in between layers. |
| Vanilla Cake | Three layers of vanilla cake with your choice of buttercream, chocolate buttercream, or cream cheese frosting in between layers. |
| Cake Batter Cake | Three layers of vanilla funfetti cake with cake batter between layers, and blue vanilla buttercream on the exterior. |
| Peanut Butter Nutella® Cake | Three layers of peanut butter cake with Nutella® between layers and Nutella® buttercream on the exterior. Piped decoration included. |
| Cookie Monster Cake | Three layers of vanilla chocolate chip cake with cookie dough between layers, and vanilla buttercream on the exterior. Piped decoration included. |
| Chocolate Decadence Cake | Three layers of chocolate cake with chocolate mousse between layers, with chocolate ganache on the exterior. Piped decoration included. |
| Cookies ‘n Cream Cake | Three layers of chocolate cake with Oreo mousse between layers and vanilla buttercream on the exterior. Piped decoration included. |
| Samoa Cake | Three layers of vanilla cake with coconut caramel filling between layers and caramel buttercream exterior. Piped decoration included. |
| Ron Bennington Cake | Three layers of chocolate cake with peanut butter between layers, and chocolate ganache on the exterior. Piped decoration included. |
| Custom Buttercream Cake | Three layers of your choice of cake (choose from classic flavors) with your choice of dyed buttercream frosting in between layers. |
Signature Cupcake Creations
Mollys Cupcakes is famous for its decadent, made-from-scratch cupcakes. Here are some top picks:
- Crème Brûlée Cupcake: Soft vanilla cake hides a rich crème brûlée custard center. The top features caramelized sugar that cracks with a spoon, finished with fresh glazed berries. A perfect mix of creamy and crunchy.
- Cake Batter Cupcake: A celebration in a cupcake! Funfetti cake filled with raw cake batter, swirled with fluffy vanilla buttercream, and topped with rainbow sprinkles. Sweet nostalgia in every bite.
- Cookie Monster Cupcake: A chewy vanilla chocolate chip base filled with gooey cookie dough. Frosted with light buttercream and crowned with a mini chocolate chip cookie. A treat for cookie lovers.
These cupcakes are made fresh daily and are designed to be fun, surprising, and incredibly satisfying.
5 Best Recommended Dishes at Molly’s Cupcakes
When it comes to gourmet cupcakes, few names carry the reputation that Molly’s Cupcakes has built over the years. Known for its creative flavors, generous fillings, and made-from-scratch quality, this beloved bakery has become a must-visit destination for dessert lovers and tourists alike.
According to the National Confectioners Association, specialty cupcakes and gourmet bakery items have seen a steady rise in demand, with consumers increasingly seeking unique flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients over mass-produced alternatives. Molly’s Cupcakes has consistently stayed ahead of this trend by offering inventive, handcrafted creations that go far beyond the standard frosted cupcake.
Based on customer reviews, repeat visits, and staff recommendations, here are the 5 best dishes you absolutely cannot miss when visiting Molly’s Cupcakes:
1. Crème Brûlée Cupcake
For those who appreciate elegant, multi-textured desserts, the Crème Brûlée Cupcake is a standout creation that elevates the classic French dessert into cupcake form.
- A soft vanilla cupcake base is filled with silky, rich custard delivering a smooth, creamy bite with every mouthful
- The top is finished with a crackly caramelized sugar shell, recreating the signature “crack” of a traditional crème brûlée
- Fresh berries add a bright, fruity contrast that balances the richness of the custard
This cupcake masterfully combines three distinct textures creamy, crunchy, and fruity into one cohesive dessert experience. Pastry experts often note that achieving a proper caramelized sugar crust on a cupcake requires precise technique and timing, making this a true showcase of baking skill.
“It’s rare to find a cupcake that feels this refined it’s dessert-restaurant quality in a handheld form.” Verified Customer Review
2. Cookie Monster Cupcake
Few desserts tap into nostalgia and indulgence quite like the Cookie Monster Cupcake a creation that has become one of Molly’s most talked-about menu items.
- The cupcake is filled with gooey, edible cookie dough, delivering a soft, doughy surprise at the center
- It’s topped with a mini chocolate chip cookie, adding a satisfying crunch and visual appeal
- The combination taps into childhood comfort food memories while delivering a genuinely indulgent adult treat
A 2022 dessert trends report highlighted that cookie dough-flavored desserts remain among the top-requested flavors across bakeries in the U.S. a trend Molly’s has clearly mastered with this creation.
“This one brings me right back to sneaking spoonfuls of cookie dough as a kid but way better.” Frequent Visitor
3. Cake Batter Cupcake
If celebration is the goal, the Cake Batter Cupcake delivers exactly that a vibrant, playful, and flavor-packed dessert designed to feel like a party in every bite.
- A rainbow funfetti cake base is loaded with colorful sprinkles throughout
- It’s filled with raw cake batter, giving it that distinctive, beloved “batter” flavor that many people secretly love straight from the bowl
- Topped with whipped vanilla buttercream, the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet never overpowering
This cupcake has become a favorite for birthdays, celebrations, and special occasions, largely due to its festive appearance and nostalgic, crowd-pleasing flavor profile.
4. Gluten-Free Chocolate Cupcake
Dietary restrictions shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor and Molly’s Gluten-Free Chocolate Cupcake proves exactly that.
- Made with gluten-free ingredients without compromising on moisture, richness, or chocolate depth
- Delivers a dense, fudgy texture that rivals (and in many cases surpasses) traditional gluten-containing chocolate cupcakes
- A reliable option for guests with celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, or those simply choosing gluten-free diets
According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, roughly 1 in 100 people worldwide have celiac disease, and millions more follow gluten-free diets by choice. Bakeries that offer high-quality gluten-free options without an “afterthought” taste stand out significantly in customer satisfaction surveys.
“I have celiac disease and this is genuinely one of the best chocolate cupcakes I’ve had gluten-free or not.” Verified Customer Review
5. Fudgy Brownie
Sometimes simplicity wins and the Fudgy Brownie at Molly’s is proof that classic indulgence never goes out of style.
- Features a dense, rich chocolate base with a gooey, molten center
- Topped with a slightly crisp crust, providing the perfect textural contrast to the soft interior
- A go-to choice for true chocolate lovers who want maximum flavor without unnecessary complexity
Brownies consistently rank among the top three most-ordered bakery desserts in customer satisfaction studies, largely due to their universal appeal and comforting, familiar flavor profile.
Why These 5 Dishes Stand Out
| Dish | Best For | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Crème Brûlée Cupcake | Elegant dessert lovers | Caramelized sugar crust |
| Cookie Monster Cupcake | Nostalgia seekers | Gooey cookie dough center |
| Cake Batter Cupcake | Celebrations & parties | Funfetti + raw batter flavor |
| Gluten-Free Chocolate Cupcake | Dietary-conscious guests | Rich flavor, no gluten |
| Fudgy Brownie | Classic chocolate lovers | Dense, gooey texture |
Each of these creations reflects Molly’s Cupcakes’ commitment to quality, creativity, and customer satisfaction combining trending flavors, dietary inclusivity, and nostalgic comfort into one menu. Whether you’re visiting for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these five dishes represent the best of what Molly’s Cupcakes has to offer.
Molly’s Cupcakes Reviews
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.2 out of 5, based on 3,000 Yelp Reviews)
Store Locations and Ambiance
Each Mollys Cupcakes location offers a welcoming, playful environment. Look for colorful walls, retro accents, and swing seats at the counter that make eating in an experience.
Locations include:
- Chicago:
- Lincoln Park: 2536 N. Clark St
- River East: 419 E. Illinois St
- South Loop: 1150 S. Wabash Ave
- West Loop: 111 S. Halsted St
- New York City:
- Bleecker Street: 228 Bleecker St
- Iowa:
- Iowa City: 14 S. Clinton St
- Des Moines: 215 E. 3rd St
- Ohio:
- Liberty Center: 7514 Bales St
- Norwood: 1934 Dana Ave
- Michigan:
- Ann Arbor: 116 E. Liberty St
All locations are open seven days a week with varying hours. Seating is cozy and perfect for casual hangouts or quiet dessert dates.
Locations on Map:
Ordering, Delivery, and Special Events
Ordering is easy via the Website. Customers can select flavors, customize orders, and even schedule pickups or deliveries.
- Delivery: Available in select locations. Delivery fees and zones vary by city. Orders should be placed in advance for large events.
- Weddings and Parties: Molly’s Cupcakes creates custom cupcake towers and wedding cakes. Flavors, frosting styles, and toppings can be tailored for your big day.
- Corporate Orders: Great for events, team treats, and client gifts. Bulk pricing and logo customization are available.
Awards and Media Recognition
Molly’s Cupcakes has earned plenty of praise:
- Winner of Cupcake Wars, Season 1 finale on Food Network.
- Named in USA Today’s Top 10 Cupcake Bakeries in America.
- Featured in publications like Eater, TimeOut, and Thrillist.
Fans and critics alike praise the creativity, flavor, and consistency of the desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are there vegan or gluten-free cupcakes?
Yes. Each store offers select vegan and gluten-free options. Choices vary daily. - Can I place a custom cake or large order?
Yes. Visit the custom order page or contact your nearest location directly to discuss flavor and size options. - How do I order delivery?
Place an order online and choose delivery if available in your area. Delivery fees apply. - What’s the price for a custom cake?
Prices depend on size and customization. Contact your local Molly’s Store for a quote. - How can schools partner with Mollys Cupcakes?
Send an inquiry through the website or contact your local store to explore fundraising and donation opportunities.
Contact Information and Social Media
Stay connected:
- Website: mollyscupcakes
- Instagram: @mollyscupcakes See latest creations and behind-the-scenes fun.
Each store has individual contact info available on the site.
Conclusion
Molly’s Cupcakes brings together bold flavor, playful creativity, and genuine heart in every treat. Whether you’re craving a gooey-filled cupcake or simply searching for a cozy spot to relax, this beloved bakery never disappoints. Visit a location near you, order online, and enjoy desserts that make every moment a little sweeter.
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