San Rafael’s Heston Cakes Bakes Hyperrealistic Party-Starting Desserts

SAN FRANCISCO – For artist-baker Michelle Heston, a party without cake is just a get-together. From vegetables to cowboy boots, Heston creates hyper-realistic desserts that keep customers guessing whether the items are real or made from cake.

As the founder of Heston Cakes, she makes special desserts that look like works of art for everyone.

“I’m completely, 100% self-taught,” Heston said. “Cupcakes are my passion and, more importantly, my therapy.”

Michelle started making cakes 6 years ago as a hobby while working full time. During COVID, her passion turned into a full-fledged business. Today she bakes signature cakes, wedding cakes and realistic cakes.

“I think every cake should tell a story. Whether it’s someone’s favorite candy, maybe it’s a record they like,” Heston explained. “Whether it’s fresh flowers or herbs from someone’s garden, this cake has to tell a story that’s deeply personal.”

These cakes are not only beautiful, but also help give back. Through the organization named Cake4KidsHeston bakes for young people who may be in foster care, in group homes, survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking, living in low-income housing with or without parents, or even homeless.

“We anonymously create the cakes … and deliver them to a partner agency and they are delivered to the child,” Heston described. “I think being able to give that to a kid and seeing the joy it can bring to someone gives me immense satisfaction. It’s all about creating something special for that child.”

For more information and to order a special cake, visit @hestoncakes on Instagram.