Sprinkles cupcakes are loved by dessert fans across the country. Known as one of the first bakery chains to focus solely on gourmet cupcakes, the brand launched in California in 2005. Its first location outside the Golden State opened to much fanfare here in Dallas in the Plaza at Preston Center in March 2007. An eye-catching, candy-pink Sprinkles Cupcake ATM debuted next door thereafter.
Now, after two decades, the brand has reportedly shuttered all 20 storefronts nationwide, effective Wednesday, December 31, 2025. The announcement came with less than a day’s notice. Founder Candace Nelson, who sold the company to a private equity firm in 2012, shared the news via social media in a reel posted the same day as the closures were to take effect.
@candacenelson Today is Sprinkles’ final day. As many of you know, I started Sprinkles in 2005 with a KitchenAid mixer and a big idea. Over the years, we expanded across the country and launched the Cupcake ATM. I sold Sprinkles in 2012 and have no ownership or operational involvement in the company. Still, it’s surreal to see this chapter come to a close – and it’s not how I imagined the story would unfold. I’m deeply grateful to the fans, customers, and community who showed up, celebrated with us, and made Sprinkles part of their traditions – and to the team who made it all happen. I’ll always be proud of what we built. Today, my heart is with the Sprinkles employees. If you have stories about how Sprinkles Cupcakes added a little extra sweetness, comfort, or connection to your life, please share them in the comments. #sprinklescupcakes #sprinkles ♬ original sound – Candace Nelson
“Just to say that out loud is completely surreal. Even though I sold the company over a decade ago, I still have such a personal connection to it, and this isn’t how I thought the story would go,” said Nelson, following the announcement. “One thing is for sure, I’m incredibly grateful for all the joy our cupcakes have brought to millions of people over the years.”
The founder’s reel quickly went viral, reposted by countless news outlets and fans of the brand. Sprinkles’ website, Instagram, and Facebook accounts have not confirmed the closures; however, all products listed online are marked as “Sold Out.”
A sign currently posted on the door of the Plaza at Preston Center location reads:
Dear Sprinkles Guests (Family),
We are deeply saddened to say that we’ve closed our doors for good. We found out just yesterday that Sprinkles was closing all of their doors nationwide. With the news spreading quickly all of our fans came to show support on our last day and unfortunately we are out of our beloved baked products.
We sincerely thank you for always showing your support and love with our team. You will be greatly missed!
Sincerely,
Sprinkles Dallas
Dallas-based Venture Commercial manages the Plaza at Preston Center. A representative stated by phone on Thursday, January 1, 2026, that they are awaiting official confirmation of the closure directly from the company.
