-Our Story-
“Don’t wish for it, work for it.”
Chris and Lisa Kannapel - The Bake Shoppe
Chris and Lisa embarked on a great adventure when they purchased The Bake Shoppe from their friend and original owner David Stark, in June of 2021.
Both Lisa and Chris are educators and bakers. Lisa taught in elementary school for 32 years and Chris is still teaching today. Prior to purchasing the shop, they both honed their talent for baking by crafting homemade biscotti in their kitchen. Their delicious biscotti creations quickly outgrew its confines, and at a point they realized the need for a bigger kitchen in order to expand the biscotti business.
Fortunately for them, they came across David Stark, (then owner of The Bake Shoppe), and rented his space and equipment at The Bake Shoppe in 2008. Once they started baking, Dave gave guidance and suggestions on different baking techniques, and Lisa and Chris benefitted greatly from his mentorship.
In June of 2021, David decided to pass the torch, presenting the Kannapels with the opportunity to buy The Bake Shoppe. They both embraced this chance, taking over the beloved bakery in Windsor Heights.
The Kannapels are committed to upholding the cherished traditions of The Bake Shoppe, with the iconic Champagne Cake standing as a testament to their commitment. Simultaneously, they bring their own innovations and flavors to the table. Chocolate croissants, frangepane tarts, and Lisa’s Biscotti are just a few examples of these additions.
As Lisa and Chris continue to craft delicious treats and memories, they inspire us all to follow our dreams, one sweet bite at a time.
History of The Bake Shoppe
David Stark, owner and founder of The Bake Shoppe, was born with baking in his blood. Stark’s family purchased Barbara’s Bake Shop in 1948. At the age of 14, David entered the world of baking and began working at Barbara’s in the mid 60’s. Once his uncle retired, David and his brother became partners at the bakery and proudly ran the business until 1990. Barbara’s had become the largest retail bakery in Des Moines, a household name famous for its traditional baked goods and champagne cakes.
David sold Barbara’s Bake Shop in 1990. He traveled and tried out the restaurant business for a bit before returning to run the bakery at Principal Financial from 1996-2002. In December of 2003, David opened The Bake Shoppe with the aim to do things the “old fashioned way”; to bake from scratch using high quality ingredients and lots of time. With his team of kind, talented and dedicated employees, David maintains these high standards every day.
The Bake Shoppe is steadily growing, happily providing you with delicious, beautifully decorated baked goods and Barbara’s Original Champagne Cake