Baked by Melissa bite-size cupcakes in a variety of flavors, New York City

Our Story

YOU CAN DO ANYTHING.

Baked by Melissa traces its start to a 2008 setback and the response that followed. Melissa Ben-Ishay, then an assistant media planner, was fired; her brother redirected the moment toward home-baked cupcakes and a business, beginning her path as a founder of Baked by Melissa.

Melissa Ben-Ishay with her mother, early days of Baked by Melissa.
Melissa Ben-Ishay with her brother Brian
Melissa Ben-Ishay and Scottie, Baked by Melissa team early days.
Melissa Ben-Ishay with her parents, who supported the founding of Baked by Melissa.

New York flavor in a bite-size frame

A SoHo pickup window was the first retail address in the Baked by Melissa story. From its New York City origin came mini, bite-size cupcakes and an opening flavor vocabulary drawn from cookie dough, tie-dye, s’mores, and peanut butter cup.

Baked by Melissa early days collage — SoHo pickup window, cupcake boxes, first team.

Female-founded and shaped by the city

New York City was more than a location: its creativity, energy, and confidence helped the female-founded brand move through its early growth. Alongside that city influence, Baked by Melissa describes a group vision carried by team, friends, and family.

Melissa Ben-Ishay of Baked by Melissa in New York City.

MAKE LIFE SWEETER.

Founder Melissa Ben-Ishay anchors the narrative without standing alone in it. Baked by Melissa's own group vision makes room for family, team, and friends, ending this chapter with appreciation for their part in the journey.