Scratch Bakery

Introduction / Overview

When residents across Hampton Roads are in need of a perfect celebration cake, a delectable everyday treat, or a gourmet dessert for an office party, one name frequently rises to the top: Scratch Bakery in Newport News, Virginia. More than just a local bakery, Scratch is a dedicated cake shop and wedding bakery that has become a beloved fixture in the community, renowned for its commitment to high-quality, made-from-scratch ingredients and exceptional customer service. This neighborhood establishment, founded and owned by LaShonda Sanford, has grown organically since its opening in 2011, turning a home-based tradition into a regional favorite. Scratch Bakery is proud to be a Black-owned and women-owned business, dedicated to providing unforgettable sweets for all of life's moments.

LaShonda Sanford’s passion for baking began at home, rooted in a family that loved dessert. This personal connection shines through in every offering, from their famous, moisture-rich carrot cake and classic sour cream pound cake to their innovative gourmet cupcakes. The bakery has earned a strong reputation for being a reliable source for beautifully decorated and truly delicious custom cakes, whether for birthdays, baby showers, or elaborate weddings. Their dedication to quality hasn't gone unnoticed; Scratch Bakery has been recognized with the Daily Press's "Best Bakery of the 757" award and even earned a feature on the Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship. This notoriety confirms what local Virginia customers already know—Scratch Bakery is a true culinary gem.

Location and Accessibility

Scratch Bakery is conveniently located in the attractive Port Warwick area of Newport News, Virginia, making it an easy stop for locals and visitors across the Peninsula. The specific address is 4181 William Styron Square N, Newport News, VA 23606, USA. This central location in Hampton Roads is designed for a quick and easy visit, which is perfect for picking up an impromptu treat or a scheduled order.

Accessibility is a priority for the bakery, ensuring that all customers have a smooth experience. The facility includes a wheelchair accessible entrance and designated wheelchair accessible parking spaces. For those driving, both a free parking lot and ample free street parking are available nearby, eliminating the stress of finding a spot. Whether you're rushing in for a sweet fix or taking your time to browse the daily selections, getting to and from the bakery is simple. Furthermore, to accommodate the busy schedules of Virginia residents, Scratch Bakery offers flexible service options including delivery, in-store pickup, and takeout, allowing you to enjoy their treats wherever you are.

Services Offered

Scratch Bakery operates as a full-service cake shop and cafe, providing a broad menu that covers everything from celebratory desserts to savory lunch options and hot beverages. Their commitment to baking from scratch ensures that every item is fresh and flavorful.

• Custom and Specialty Cakes: Specializing in custom cakes for any occasion—including Wedding Cakes, Birthday Cakes, Graduation Cakes, and Baby Shower Cakes—available in specialty flavors like Red Velvet, Carrot Cake, German Chocolate, and various Pound Cakes.
• Gourmet Cupcakes: Offering an extensive selection of 18 to 20 cupcake flavors per day, including popular options such as Death By Chocolate, Red Velvet, Banana Pudding, Triple Strawberry, and even Keto Cupcakes for dietary needs. Cupcakes are available as single items or in a mixed dozen.
• Oversized Jumbo Cake Slices: Enjoy large, individual slices of their most popular cakes, such as Jumbo Death By Chocolate, Jumbo Wedding (French vanilla almond), Red Velvet Cake with cream cheese frosting, and Banana Caramel.
• Signature Desserts & Treats: A variety of smaller baked goods, notably their famous Vanilla Gooey Bars, jumbo cookies, brownies, cinnamon rolls, and seasonal favorites like bread pudding and different gourmet cups (Banana Pudding, Strawberry Shortcake Cups, Chocolate Mousse Cups).
• Catering and Party Platters: Offering Small, Medium, and Large Party Trays of desserts for events, as well as cookie platters and options for corporate catering, ensuring your next event is sweet and simple.
• Lunch Items: Providing a limited but delicious savory menu, featuring homemade items like Chicken Pot Pie and the Chicken Salad Sandwich, perfect for a mid-day meal.
• Beverages: A selection of drinks is available to complement your order, including fresh Coffee, soda, bottled water, and juice.
• Special Dietary Options: The bakery is committed to accommodating various needs, offering both Keto cupcakes and brownies.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets Scratch Bakery apart in the competitive Virginia food scene are its unique features and high standing in the community.

• Featured on Food Network: Owner LaShonda Sanford and Scratch Bakery gained national attention by being featured on the Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship, solidifying their status as a destination for top-tier baking.
• Signature Gooey Bars: The Vanilla Gooey Bars are consistently a customer favorite, praised for their soft, rich, and intensely sweet texture—a must-try when visiting.
• Focus on Quality Ingredients: True to its name, Scratch Bakery is committed to a "true scratch kitchen" philosophy, promising food made with high-quality, real ingredients in every recipe.
• Local Community Recognition: The bakery has won multiple local awards, including the Daily Press's "Best Bakery of the 757," demonstrating a high level of customer satisfaction and local repute.
• Ownership and Ethos: Scratch Bakery is a proud women and Black-owned business, with an inspiring backstory rooted in family tradition and a dedication to becoming a true "neighborhood bakery" for the Hampton Roads community.
• Wide Variety of Oversized Desserts: The menu excels in offering generously portioned treats, from Oversized Cupcakes to jumbo cake slices and cookies, providing great value and a truly indulgent experience.

Contact Information

For orders, inquiries, or to simply stop by and treat yourself, you can reach Scratch Bakery at their Newport News location:

• Address: 4181 William Styron Square N, Newport News, VA 23606, USA
• Phone: (757) 833-0965

What is Worth Choosing

For any Virginia resident searching for an outstanding bakery experience, Scratch Bakery offers an impressive blend of quality, variety, and community heart. The consistent positive feedback from customers, who frequently praise the freshness and deliciousness of their cakes, highlights the care that goes into every single item. From a three-tier wedding cake that's described as "one of the best cakes I've tasted" to everyday treats like the gooey bars and a mixed half-dozen of their substantial cupcakes, the value is evident. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or just craving a simple indulgence, Scratch Bakery has something to satisfy.

We highly recommend trying a Jumbo Slice of one of their specialty cakes—such as the Red Velvet Cake with its famous cream cheese frosting or the Jumbo Wedding cake slice (French vanilla almond with buttercream)—or their signature Vanilla Gooey Bars. The commitment of owner LaShonda Sanford to maintaining the “made from scratch” promise, coupled with their recognized success on a national level, makes Scratch Bakery an essential stop for anyone with a sweet tooth in Newport News and the wider Hampton Roads area. They not only provide delicious desserts but also cater to convenience with easy payment options (Credit cards, Debit cards, NFC mobile payments) and multiple service choices, including delivery, to bring the freshness right to your door. Support a local, award-winning, women-owned business and taste the difference that passion makes.