The beloved bakery chain Sprinkles Cupcakes, renowned for its unique storefronts and innovative “cupcake ATMs,” is set to close all its locations permanently. Candace Nelson, the company’s founder and former owner, shared the news in an emotional Instagram post, revealing that she never envisioned such an ending for the brand after selling it to a private equity firm in 2014.
In her post, Nelson expressed her disappointment, stating, “I thought Sprinkles would keep growing and be around forever. I thought it was going to be my legacy.” Her journey began in 2005 when she opened the first Sprinkles location in Beverly Hills, California. The brand quickly gained popularity and expanded its footprint across the United States, boasting at least nine locations in California alone and a total of ten cupcake ATMs.
The bakery chain made its first foray outside of California in 2007 with the opening of a store in Dallas, Texas. Despite its initial success and widespread fanbase, Nelson’s recent announcement marks a somber chapter for the brand. As of Wednesday afternoon, there has been no response from the current ownership regarding the closure plans, which Nelson indicated would take effect immediately.
Sprinkles Cupcakes has long held a place in the hearts of dessert lovers, and the news of its closing is likely to evoke nostalgia among many who frequented its locations or enjoyed the convenience of its automated cupcake vending machines.

