Cheesecake Funk: A Sweet Tribute to Prince's Legacy

In the quaint town of Excelsior, Minnesota, just a stone’s throw from Paisley Park, a unique bakery is turning heads and tantalizing taste buds. Cheesecake Funk, a vibrant homage to the late music icon Prince, has quickly become a must-visit destination for cheesecake enthusiasts since its inception in September 2025.

A Bakery with a Purpose

Owner Vanessa Drews has transformed her passion for baking into a thriving business, combining her love for cheesecakes with her admiration for Prince. The bakery, adorned with purple walls and memorabilia celebrating the legendary artist, has garnered attention not only for its aesthetic but also for its delicious offerings. The standout item? A decadent turtle cheesecake, rich with dark chocolate, gooey caramel, and toasted pecans, which has become the bakery's bestseller.

From Hobby to Hotspot

Drews's journey began in 2002 as a hobby baker, crafting cheesecakes for friends and family. Her big break came when Prince himself started enjoying her creations at Paisley Park, forever linking her name to his culinary praises. “Prince began calling my cheesecakes 'cheesecake funk,'” she recalls, delighted by his endorsement. This connection propelled her into the spotlight, leading to her cheesecakes being featured at various restaurants across the Twin Cities, including all eight locations of Crave American Kitchen & Sushi Bar.

A Sweet Spot for Fans

Today, Cheesecake Funk serves as more than just a bakery; it’s a pilgrimage site for Prince fans. Visitors from all over the globe, including Germany and the Netherlands, stop by to indulge in sweet treats while paying homage to the music legend. With seasonal flavors like apple and lingonberry, there’s something for everyone at Drews’s bakery. “I’m so thankful to him,” she reflects, acknowledging Prince’s lasting impact on her life and career.

Source: www.bonappetit.com