FAQ

Where are you located?

The Prairie Patisserie is registered with the MN Dept. of Agriculture as a Cottage Food Producer, based in rural Winthrop, MN—more specifically, it’s smack dab between Winthrop, Gaylord, and Lafayette! All visits and order pick-ups are available by appointment only.

How did you come up with the name “The Prairie Patisserie”?

I knew I wanted a name that was rooted in…my roots. Even though I spent several years after college living out East in the big city, I am a Minnesota hog farmer’s daughter at heart (the smell of prairie grass on a summer morning is one of my favorites). I also wanted the name to convey that these would be high-end baked goods, made with quality ingredients…and let’s face it, “patisserie” looks and sounds fancy, doesn’t it? It’s a type of bakery in France or Belgium that specializes in pastries and sweets…which circles back to my roots, my Belgian heritage. 

How do you say “patisserie”? 

Puh-TI-suh-ree 

Do you offer shipping? 

Unfortunately, no—shipping is not allowed per the MN Cottage Food Law. All items must be picked up in person. 

How much do your baked goods cost? 

Please check out my Pricing page for custom prices! Holiday Pre-Sales are available for purchase online, so keep an eye out for those! 

How long do your cookies stay fresh?  

All custom-decorated sugar cookies are individually heat-sealed in a cellophane bag to maximize freshness and flavor. If left in their bags, the cookies should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. If you’re not going to be eating your cookies within a few days, I recommend freezing them for maximum freshness. For all other types of cookies, pop them in the freezer within a day or two of receiving them. See below on how to freeze your cookies. 

Should I refrigerate my decorated cookies? 

Nope, no way, no how. Refrigerating the cookies could cause colors to bleed. The best place for them is on your countertop or in the freezer. 

Can you freeze decorated cookies? 

Absolutely! Cookies freeze incredibly well. Custom decorated sugar cookies can just be left in the box they come in and put into the freezer. Alternately, you can also carefully place them in an airtight container or a freezer storage bag (if using a storage bag, placing a cookie sheet underneath it will provide stability). If possible, stacking the cookies standing up (vs. laid flat) will help prevent the designs from cracking. To thaw, take them out the night before you’ll be needing them. DO NOT open the container or storage bag until the cookies are completely thawed. This is the most important step. You will see condensation form on the inside of the cellophane bags  (this is totally normal), and moving the cookies around at this stage will smear the designs. The best thing to do is take them out of the freezer at night and leave until morning. 

For all other cookies, place them in an airtight container with wax paper or parchment between layers. To thaw, take them out an hour or so before you need them. 

Cookies can stay in the freezer for up to 1-2 months (if they last that long!). 

Can I freeze your other baked goods? 

You bet! Cupcakes, macarons, leftover cake, etc….you can freeze anything. Just place in an airtight container (cupcakes can be left in their box), and pop in the freezer until you need them! 

How should macarons be stored? 

These delicate desserts are best stored in the refrigerator or freezer, to maintain optimal texture. Macarons will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freezing macarons can extend the shelf life to 3 months. In storing macarons, it is best that the dessert is placed in an airtight container, then placed in the coldest part of the fridge or freezer.

How far in advance should I place my custom order? 

I am usually booked at least 6-8 weeks in advance, so the sooner the better! If you are wondering about availability, head to the Custom Order Request form to submit a request. I’ll get back to you within a day or two to discuss details! 

Do you offer gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, etc. items? 

Yes! Dairy-free and gluten-friendly items are available upon request. Since I do use wheat flour in my kitchen, I cannot truly say items are “gluten-free,” so please keep that in mind if you have a severe gluten allergy. Also, since I keep and use nuts in my home, I do NOT offer nut-free items. 

Do you deliver? 

Typically, no. Delivery may be available for an added cost. During some holiday pre-sales, I do offer pick-up at the Winthrop city park, so you don’t have to drive all the way out to my house in the country! 

When is payment due? 

For holiday pre-sales, payment is due upon ordering. For custom orders $100 and over, payment is due 2 weeks before the pick-up date. For custom orders under $100, you may pay when you pick up. 

Do you offer refunds? 

I am able to refund and cancel your custom order up to 10 days prior to your pick-up date. No refunds will be given for items that have already been made.  

No refunds are given for holiday pre-sale items.