thoughtfully

designed
custom

sugar cookies

ORDER NOW

holiday presale

Jun 27

Summer Fun Kids Cookie Decorating

hosted with the Dodgeville Rec Department

MAY 9

Mother's Day Cookie Flower Pot Presale Pickup

mom's favorite gift this year. preorder yours today!

SHOP NOW

JUN 19

Mazomanie Night Market

live music, local vendors, and all the good summer vibes!

CHECK IT OUT

VIEW EVENTS

thoughtfully designed, naturally beautiful

At Bakes & Bites, every cookie is crafted with care, from the intricate designs to the ingredients we use. That’s why we make all our sugar cookies with dye-free, natural colorings—using rich hues from plant-based ingredients instead of artificial dyes.

This thoughtful approach ensures that our cookies are as wholesome as they are stunning. Every detail reflects our commitment to quality and intention, creating treats you can feel good about sharing and enjoying.

Perfect for celebrating life’s sweetest moments with cookies that are as mindful as they are memorable.

birthdays

baby showers

promotional

bachelorette parties

bridal showers

weddings

A SUGAR cookie for every occasion

geena

xo,

YOUR NEW BAKING BESTIE

meet geena

I’ve always loved combining creativity with food, and cookie decorating turned out to be the perfect mix. What started with a class in 2023 has grown into a sweet little business—and I’m so grateful for it. Every cookie is thoughtfully designed with my signature style: muted tones, bold pops, and a whole lot of heart. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just want a tasty treat, I’m here to make it beautiful and delicious.

Let’s create something unforgettable together!

ABOUT BAKES & BITES

People ask me all the time if I do cookies full time—and the answer is yes! let’s spend a day together:) • bonus points if you can name any of the podcasts I was listening to ⭐️

I’m Geena, the owner of Bakes & Bites. I make dye-free custom sugar cookies for the Madison, WI area, teach cookie classes now and then, and pop up at local markets. If you’re into cookies or curious about the process, I’d love for you to follow along 🤍

#ditl #customsugarcookies #smallbusinesslove #dyefree #customcookies #madisonwi

it’s almost grad party szn—let’s make your celebration extra sweet🤭

your big moment deserves something personal, memorable, and delicious • whether you’re going all out or keeping things simple, custom cookies are the perfect way to add a thoughtful (and photogenic) touch

swipe to see some past sets made just for grads🎓

May is fully booked and June is almost full, so don’t wait to snag a spot!

#2025grad #gradparty #madisonwi #graduationparty #graduationpartyideas #graduationcookies

If I’m being completely honest… 👀
the 3 biggest mistakes I made when I went dye-free were:

1. Thinking I was going to be ostracized 🤷🏼‍♀️
I genuinely thought people would stop supporting me just because I decided to be more mindful about what we put into our bodies. How crazy is that?! We’ve somehow made food choices a political statement. But here’s the thing: if you can’t get on board with offering a more mindful option, then you’re not my client — and I’m totally fine with that. My people showed up LOUDER 🫶🏼

2. Thinking I had to have it all figured out before I started
I thought I needed a perfect plan before I could make this shift. But guess what? You don’t. You figure it out on the way. You learn as you go. Waiting for everything to be perfect would’ve kept me stuck forever

3. Not doing it sooner 🤍
I’ve known since day one that I wanted to be dye-free, but I let fear and limiting beliefs hold me back. If I could go back in time, I’d tell myself: you’re allowed to want more. You’re allowed to trust your gut. You don’t need anyone’s permission to do what feels right for you and your people 🤍🤍

Going dye-free isn’t about judging anyone’s choices. It’s about being the more mindful option. The one I always wanted to see more of. And standing in that truth? Best decision I’ve ever made 🥹

Be honest with me —
When it comes to big changes, are you more:
🤍 Trust your gut and go
🤍 Overthink everything (hi, me before dye-free lol)

#dyefree #dyefreebaking #smallbizjourney #madisonwi #wisconsinbaker

April in cookies 🥂🍓💍🎂🌿🍌🩵🍑

so many fruits this month • I love it!! • May is fully booked & June is already filling up—let’s chat if you’ve got a summer event coming up! 🤍

#dyefree #customcookies #customsugarcookies #monthlyrecap #madisonwi #babyshowercookies #bridalshowercookies #weddingcookies #birthdaycookies

mom deserves flowers and cookies • this year, she’s getting both! • these sweet little flower pot cookies are officially live & I’m offering a gluten friendly option for the first time (!!) • pickup is friday, may 9th at your choice of local spots • link’s in bio to snag one before they’re gone!

#madisonwi #mothersday #dyefree #glutenfriendly

ever wonder why I poke holes in the flood layer before adding details?

not only is it super satisfying, it’s also a key step to help prevent cratering—aka when the top layer of icing sinks in and leaves a little hole (so not cute!!)

cratering happens when the base layer soaks up moisture from the detail icing. there are a few tricks to help avoid it, but poking tiny holes is my tried-and-true favorite

it’s a tiny step that helps your cookies look polished and pro—definitely one to keep in your back pocket🤍

#dyefree #cookiedecorating #asmr #satisfying #customsugarcookies

dye-free decorating fun at trout days! 🎣

I’ll be set up between @crossroads_coffeehouse & @thecreeksidescoop from 11am–2pm — right in the heart of all the action! drop in anytime to decorate some cute fishing-themed cookies • each decorating kit includes 3 cookies plus all the icing + tools you’ll need. pre-purchase your kit to guarantee a spot (through the link in my bio), or just drop in — we’ll have a few extras ready! can’t wait to see you there!! 😆

#madisonwi #madisonwievents #crossplainswi #dyefree #troutdays #cookiedecorating

“Do I really need dye-free custom cookies for this party?”
Yes. Yes, you do.
Because grocery store cookies don’t match your vibe 💅🏼

#dyefree #customcookies #madisonwi #customsugarcookies

cheeky little bachelorette set coming in hot 🍑🖤 for the bride who’s not afraid to bach that ass up 💅🏼

2025 brides—summer’s filling fast! let’s get your bachelorette cookies in my calendar 💌

#bachthatassup #bacheloretteideas #bachelorettecookies #madisonwi #dyefree #customsugarcookies

you already know they’re cute… but let’s talk about what’s in your cookies!

at Bakes & Bites, I keep things simple, sweet, and thoughtful—from real butter to pure vanilla and eggs from my own happy hens. every batch is made from scratch with ingredients you don’t have to second-guess💌

because kind cookies just taste better:)

#customsugarcookies #dyefree #madisonwi #supportlocal #customcookies

yes, the eggs are from my backyard chickens. yes, it makes a difference. the girls are doing important work around here 💅🏼🥚🐓

#backyardchickens #madisonwi #qualitymatters #fromscratch #farmfresheggs

I loooove when clients use my past cookie designs as inspo—it makes the whole process feel even more personal and fun (and a little validating, if I’m being honest!)

we took one of my past baby shower sets and gave it a fruity little makeover with pink strawberries and dainty bows—I mean, how sweet is that onesie?? 🥹🍓🤍

#babyshowercookies #dyefree #berrysweetbabyshower #madisonwi #wisconsinbaker

say hi to my pickup partners—the small businesses that make your cookie pickup even easier!

whether you’re grabbing a custom order or scooping up a presale, these trusted spots make pickup a breeze.
just choose the one that works best for you & pop by during their regular hours on your pickup day! 🤍

#customsugarcookies #madisonwi #supportsmallbusiness #smallbusinesslove

I couldn’t choose just one favorite from the Easter presale… so here’s a little highlight reel 🤭🪿🌸

Whether you’re filling baskets or planning your brunch spread, these are some of the designs I’m loving most this year!

Presale closes Sunday night • Pickup is Friday, April 18
Shop now through the link in bio!

As always, Easter presale cookies are made using plant based dyes from @prsmsugarco 🤍

#madisonwi #eastercookies #dyefree #easterbasketideas #sillygoose #customsugarcookies

one less thing to stress about—I’ve got the cookies covered🤍

custom cookies for your bridal shower, bachelorette, rehearsal dinner, and wedding day
bundle two or more and save up to 15%

wedding planning is a lot—but your desserts don’t have to be
let’s make something sweet for your big moments • inquire through our website today💌

#weddingcookies #customweddingcookies #midwestbride #cookiefavors #dyefree #madisonwi

some sets are loud, some are soft—this one’s giving ✨subtle perfection✨

no flashy theme, just sweet details & neutral tones for baby statz • custom baby shower cookies never looked so good!!

🤍 made using natural dye-free coloring from @prsmsugarco

#babyshowercookies #customsugarcookies #madisonmoms #madisonwi #babyshowerinspo

It’s almost time!! Come hang out, sip some coffee (or a Crazy Happy Shake from @thecreeksidescoop 😉), and decorate cookies with me at @crossroads_coffeehouse on April 10! Drop in anytime between 5:30-7p—no pressure, just good vibes and cute cookies

See you there? 🤍

#madisonwievents #madisonwi #crossplainswi #cookiedecoratingclass

the full reveal is hereeee!!

Every once in a while, I get a request for a custom cookie set that just feels so my style. I truly love every set I create, but some feel extra special—like I was meant to make them🥹—and Lexi’s birthday set is one of those

Bringing together coffee, plants, and outdoorsy vibes into a cohesive set was such a fun challenge, and seeing it all come together like this?? Ugh, I’m obsessed!!

Who wants a behind-the-scenes reel to see all the inspo that went into this set?? 👀

#dyefree #customsugarcookies #madisonwi #21stbirthdaycookies

March in sugar cookies🤍

Sooo many good cookie designs this month!! Can’t wait to see what April brings :)

#dyefree #madisonwi #customsugarcookies #monthlyrecap

Easter presale is here!!🐣🌸🪿🥕

This year’s lineup is packed with the cutest (and obvi most delish 💅🏼) cookies, perfect for Easter baskets, your brunch spread, or just a little treat!

📍 Pickup is Friday, April 18 at any of our pickup partners— @crossroads_coffeehouse • @rootedcultureandco • @thistleandelm • @1855coffeehouse

As always, all cookies in the presale are made with natural, plant based dyes from @prsmsugarco 🤍

#eastercookies #dyefree #madisonwi

The perfect cookies for a March birthday 🏀🥳🏆

Okay, story time— I fully planned on adding little stitch marks to the sneaker cookies, but totally forgot before I had them all individually bagged and packed up in their bakery box. So, of course, I unpackaged each little sneaker and added the stitching details… but I have zero photographic evidence lol. Oops!

Picture this: a cozy coffeehouse, a yummy drink in hand, and a table full of cookies just waiting to be decorated. No stress, no pressure—just a fun, laid-back evening to get creative and enjoy good company 🤍

Join us at @crossroads_coffeehouse on April 10 for a casual decorating experience, where you can sip, snack, and decorate at your own pace

Grab your ticket through the link in my bio, and drop a ☕️ if I’ll see you there!

#madisonwi #cookiedecoratingclass #madisonwievents

you literally can’t go wrong with the silly goose theme🤭

🤍 no artificial dyes were used in the making of these cookies thanks to @prsmsugarco 🤍
.
.
.
.
.
#customsugarcookies #behindthescenes #cookiedecorating #smallbusiness

feelin’ luckyyyy☘️🌈

I had so much fun creating these cutie St. Paddy’s Day cookies for @rootedcultureandco • they sure know how to pamper their clients 💅🏼

🤍 no artificial dyes are ever used in Bakes & Bites cookies thanks to @prsmsugarco 🤍

every cookie set starts with an idea—whether it’s a full-blown vision or just a vibe—and from there, the magic happens! a little designing, a lot of mixing and baking, and then my favorite part—bringing it all to life!!

it’s always so fun to see a set come together, and even better when they make it to their big moment at your events! • need custom cookies for something special? let’s make it happen💌

coffee and a chill night of decorating cookies—yes pls!! ☕️

join me on April 10th from 5:30-8PM at @crossroads_coffeehouse for a Cookies & Coffee Decorating Hour!

this isn’t a traditional class—just a relaxed, go-at-your-own-pace time to decorate some cute Easter cookies! each ticket includes a decorating kit with 3 cookies, step-by-step directions, and all the supplies you need—plus, I’ll be there to help with any questions!

bonus: this is my first-ever dye-free cookie class! so if you’ve been wanting to try royal icing cookie decorating without artificial food coloring, this is the perfect chance 🤍

spots are limited—grab yours at the link in my bio

I had the absolute pleasure of creating these cookies for Ether Wellness’s grand opening today! I love working with other women-owned businesses, and it’s been so fun to bring Kari’s vision to life in cookie form 🤍

If you’re in the Madison area, there’s still time to stop by, check out their beautiful space, and join one of their amazing workshops today! ✨

icing made with all natural coloring by @prsmsugarco

going out in style 😎✨

Kelly gave me the phrases, and I got to go crazy designing these groovy retirement cookies! • such a fun way to celebrate a new chapter—make an announcement and give everyone cookies • win-win! 😆

icing made using all natural coloring by @prsmsugarco

give me all things green this March ☘️🤍🌈

icing made using all natural coloring by @prsmsugarco
.
.
.
.
.
#customsugarcookies #madisonwi #stpaddysday #cookieart #cookiedecorating

the cutest little set of st. paddy’s day cookies you’ve ever seen☘️

our st. paddy’s presale is open at least through tomorrow (2/28), but I can’t promise much beyond that! • I’m fully booked with custom orders the week of pickup, but I had to make these designs available for you! • that said, I’m only taking a limited number of orders • so if you’re set on bringing Bakes & Bites cookies to your st. paddy’s shenanigans, don’t wait too long to grab yours! 🤍🤍

my books are always open, but the sooner you reserve your spot, the better!

once my calendar fills up, that’s it • so if you’ve got an event in April or May, now’s the time to lock in your custom cookie order 💌

send an inquiry to secure your date!! :)

what do you do when your baby and your husband share the same birthday?? if you’re like Emma, you come up with the cutest, most perfect theme ever🪿✨

seriously sooo obsessed with this set and how it came together 🤍 • if you’ve got a fun theme in mind, you already know I’d love to bring it to life!

made using dye-free natural colors @prsmsugarco

🤍the bakes & bites order process🤍

whether you have a full vision in mind or just a few ideas, I’ll help bring it all together! • from submitting an inquiry to finalizing the details, I’ll guide you through the process so you know exactly what to expect

swipe through to see how easy it is to order, and when you’re ready, head to bakesandbitesbyg.com to get started! 💌
.
.
.
#customcookies #sugarcookies #cookieartist #madisonwi #wisconsinbaker #bakesandbites #smallbusinessowner #customcookieorders #cookieprocess #howtoorder #bakingfromscratch #supportlocalbusiness #madisonwibakery #madefromscratch #cookiesofinstagram #bakerylife #customsugarcookies

a little cutie is on the wayyy🍊🤍🥹

one of my favorite themes to create for! • custom cookies give me so much room for creativity—I’ve done this theme at least three times, and each set has been completely unique • I love bringing your visions to life while staying true to my own design style 🤍

let’s see what we can create together 💌
.
.
.
#customsugarcookies #edibleart #thoughtfullydesigned #madisonwi #dyefree #bakesandbites #alittlecutieisontheway #alittlecutieisonthewaycookies #alittlecutieisonthewaybabyshower #babyshower #babyshowerideas #babyshowercookies

thoughtfully designed means thoughtfully made, from start to finish🤍

every ingredient in my cookies is chosen with care—organic flours and sugars, fresh eggs from my backyard chickens, extra vanilla for richness, and natural food coloring with no artificial dyes • it might take a little more effort, but I believe high-quality ingredients make all the difference • because what goes into my cookies matters just as much as how they look
.
.
.
#customsugarcookies #bakesandbites #ingredient #dyefree #thoughtfullydesigned #madisonwi

let’s talk about this farm-fresh first birthday set 🎤🐮🚜🎈

these highland cows, tractors, and cow prints were so fun to bring together! • textured details like that shaggy fur make such a difference, and I love how the whole set came together to match the vibe of the invite

let’s chat about how cookies can elevate your next event 💌

made using dye-free natural coloring from @prsmsugarco
.
.
.
#customsugarcookies #madisonwi #behindthescenes #thoughtfullydesigned #cookiedecorating #bakesandbites #customcookies #cookieart #sugarcookies #edibleart #wisconsinbaker #thoughtfullydesigned

winter one-derland 🤍❄️🎀

we may not have gotten much snow this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have the cutest winter birthday themes! • I love how delicate and dreamy this set turned out—simple but still so special 🥹

🤍 made using dye-free natural coloring from @prsmsugarco
•
•
•
#dyefree #dyefreekids #dyefreecookies #madisonwi #customsugarcookies #edibleart #thoughtfullydesigned #bakesandbites #winteronederland #firstbirthday #firstbirthdayideas #firstbirthdaycookies

last year’s favorite is back—better than ever!✨

this time, it’s made with dye-free natural coloring from @prsmsugarco, so you can feel good about gifting the cutest and most mindful cookies this Valentine’s Day 🤍

you can find these and all our Valentine’s presale options through the link in our bio! • have questions? my inbox is always open💌
•
•
•
#dyefree #dyefreecookies #valentinesday #valentinescookies #madisonwi #donutcookies #customsugarcookies #sugarcookies #edibleart #thoughtfullydesigned #bakesandbites

thoughtfully designed means thoughtfully made, from start to finish🤍

at the start of this year, I made the switch to all-natural food coloring—no artificial dyes, just real ingredients that create beautiful, vibrant colors • it was an intentional change because I care about what goes into my cookies just as much as how they look • it takes a little extra effort, but to me, it’s worth it
•
•
•
#dyefree #dyefreecookies #customsugarcookies #thoughtfullydesigned #bakesandbites #madisonwi

what’s sweeter than a dye-free Valentine’s Day? 🤍🍩🪩❤️✨💅🏼😚💌

our Valentine’s Day presale opens this Tuesday! • I’ve curated a collection of sweet, timeless designs that perfectly fit the style you know and love from me • and the best part? every cookie is made with dye-free, natural coloring, so your loved ones can enjoy adorable sugar cookies without compromise 🤍

pickups will be available at all our partner locations • if you have any questions about the presale or pickup spots, feel free to ask:)

comment “LOVE” below to get the link sent directly to your dms tomorrow
•
•
•
#customsugarcookies #dyefree #dyefreecookies #sugarcookies #valentinesday #madisonwi #valentinesdaycookies #edibleart #dyefreekids #bakesandbites

holy cow! Beau’s ONE! 🥳🐮🚜🤠

this set was such a dream to create • the vision matched my style so perfectly, and I couldn’t have been more excited to bring it to life • plus, these cookies are completely dye-free, which makes me so proud to provide this option for families who value it 🤍 • knowing how much Anni and Cam love their little BT and how special this day was for them made being part of it even more meaningful 🥹 • it’s always such an honor to have my cookies be a small part of such big celebrations!
•
•
•
#dyefree #customsugarcookies #edibleart #madisonwi #firstbirthday #firstbirthdayinspo #holycow #holycowimone #cowcookies #bakesandbites #sugarcookies #sugarcookiedecorating

Hiiii I’m Geena—the cookie artist behind Bakes & Bites!

I’m all about good food, cookies (of course), and spending almost all my days off outside 🌤️ • I know, I know, my hot take is especially spicy for someone who lives in Wisconsin, but I can’t help myself • what’s better than a cozy Wisconsin winter day spent decorating cookies??

now that I’ve exposed myself, I have to know—what’s your hot take?
•
•
•
#smallbusiness #madisonwi #cookieartist #dyefree #customsugarcookies #meettheartist

let’s talk about the sweetest little citrus set 🎤🍋🍊

these mini oranges and lemons were such a fun set to create! • they’re proof that even the smallest details, like those little leaves 🥹, can pack a big punch

custom sets like this are all about creating something that feels just right for your event • whether you’re going for playful, elegant, or somewhere in between, I love bringing your cookie visions to life

let’s chat about how cookies can elevate your next event 💌
•
•
•
#customsugarcookies #dyefree #madisonwi #behindthescenes #thoughtfullydesigned #cookiedecorating #bakesandbites #customcookies #cookieart #sugarcookies #edibleart #wisconsinbaker

the first bridal shower set of 2025🤍 🤠🥂🐄

I absolutely LOVE how this set came together! • it’s all in the tiniest touches, like the wedding date on the tag 🥹 • and NO artificial dyes used in the making?? are you kidding me right now??

if you’ve got a special event coming up this spring, let’s chat about cookies💌
•
•
•
#customsugarcookies #dyefree #sugarcookies #bakesandbites #thoughtfullydesigned #edibleart #wisconsinbride #wisconsinbaker #madisonwi #2025bride

handmade with love & dye-free natural coloring🍊🍋🤍

exciting news for bakes & bites! • all future orders will be decorated with dye-free, natural colors—like this little orange created for @katyripp ‘s Wealth & Wellness event 🍊

these colors fit so perfectly with my muted style, and I’m so excited that I can still add my signature bold pop of color when the design calls for it 🌱 • it feels like a great step toward making my cookies even more thoughtful without sacrificing the look we love 🤍

thanks for cheering me on through all these little changes—I can’t wait to see what you think! :)

I’ll be reaching out to everyone with orders coming up to see if you’d like to go dye-free (same delicious cookies ofc) • if you’ve already got something booked and want to switch to natural colors, just send me a quick message—I’d love to make it happen for you!
•
•
•
#customsugarcookies #dyefree #artificialdyefree #madisonwi #thoughtfullydesigned #bakesandbites #customcookies #cookieart #cookiedecorating #edibleart #sugarcookies #wisconsinbaker

Valentine’s cookie class is here! 💌

join me February 10th at @opehauspub for a fun, hands-on night of cookie decorating! • whether you’re a total beginner or have some experience, I’ll walk you through step-by-step to create a tray of beautiful Valentine’s cookies

your ticket includes a drink from Ope Haus (cheers to that 🥂), and the class is open to ages 14+ • bring your bestie, your valentine, or come solo—I’ll be there to decorate with you!

spots are limited—check out the link in my bio for all the details 🤍

🤍 say hello to our amazing cookie pickup partners! 🤍

I’ve teamed up with some of my favorite local businesses to make grabbing your cookies easier than ever
⠀⠀
here’s your options:
• @crossroads_coffeehouse – Cross Plains – Su-Sa 6a-8p
• @rootedcultureandco – Mt. Horeb – M-Th 9a-9p, F 8a-2p
• @thistleandelm – West Madison – W-F 10a-6p, S 10a-4p
• @1855coffeehouse – Mazomanie – W-M 6a-3p
⠀⠀
A huge thank-you to these amazing spots for being part of the Bakes & Bites family! 🤍 Ready to order? Head to the link in bio
•
•
•
#madisonwi #crossplainswi #mounthorebwi #mazomaniewi #middletonwi #customsugarcookies #smallbusinesssupport

new series alert❣️

I’ve been wanting to share more about the process behind my custom cookie sets, so here we go! • in this series, I’ll break down what each client asked for, the inspo they shared, and how I brought their ideas to life • every cookie is designed to match their vision while keeping the set cohesive and true to my design style • starting things off with this a tini bit older set—it’s a good one 💌
•
•
•
#customsugarcookies #cookieartist #deepdive #behindthescenes #cookiedecorating

simple, soft, & cozy baby shower vibes 🤍❄️🎀

it’s finally starting to feel like winter around here, and call me crazy, but I love the cold • these soft, minimal designs were the perfect match for the season • planning something special this winter? let’s create something just for you 💌
•
•
•
#babyshower #babyshowerideas #babyshowercookies #babyshowerfavors #sugarcookies #decoratedcookies #royalicingcookies #cookiedecorating #cookieart #winterbabyshower #wintercookies #eventplanner #wisconsinbaker #madisonwi

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

thoughtfully

designed
custom

sugar cookies

upcoming
COOKIE CLASSES

Jun 27

upcoming presales
& markets

MAY 9

JUN 19

thoughtfully designed, naturally beautiful

A SUGAR cookie for every occasion

geena

xo,

YOUR NEW BAKING BESTIE

meet geena

our current bakes

contact us
for more
information

thoughtfully

designed custom

sugar cookies

upcoming COOKIE CLASSES

Jun 27

upcoming presales & markets

MAY 9

JUN 19

thoughtfully designed, naturally beautiful

A SUGAR cookie for every occasion

geena

xo,

YOUR NEW BAKING BESTIE

meet geena

​

our current bakes

contact us for more information

designed
custom

upcoming
COOKIE CLASSES

upcoming presales
& markets

contact us
for more
information