For the first time, consumers nationwide can purchase Rubicon Bakers’ Vegan Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes at over 1,800 Kroger stores through a creative collaboration between Washington red raspberry farmers and the Certified B Corporation.
The national rollout follows the success of the new flavor launch last spring at a regional level. The Washington red raspberry industry partnered with Rubicon Bakers’ Research and Development team to feature a Washington red raspberry puree in both the filling and icing that complements the citrusy lemon cupcake flavor.
To celebrate the national availability of the product, Washington red raspberry growers will donate $1 to FareStart for every package of cupcakes sold, up to $10,000. FareStart is a non-profit organization based in Seattle, Washington that transforms lives, disrupts cycles of poverty and nourishes communities through food, life skills and job training. FareStart’s work is in line with Rubicon Bakers’ social mission to provide opportunities for those with significant barriers to employment.
“We believe in creating baked goods you can feel good about enjoying, and our Vegan Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes are no exception. The pink color in the icing and filling comes entirely from the vibrant red raspberry puree we source from Washington red raspberry growers,” says Andrew Stoloff and Leslie Crary, co-owners of Rubicon Bakers. “We’re thrilled to see how excited our customers are about this product, now available nationally, and we’re proud to continue working with Washington red raspberry growers!”
The cupcakes are packaged in a 4-pack clamshell with a suggested retail price of $5.99. This is the first time the logo of the Washington Red Raspberry Commission, which represents the growers who produce approximately 90 percent of the country’s frozen red raspberry crop, is prominently featured on a consumer packaged good.
“It’s always a pleasure to introduce the many benefits of Washington red raspberries to research and development teams looking for natural and delicious ingredients, but this particular effort is special,” says Henry Bierlink, executive director of the Washington Red Raspberry Commission. “This is bigger than raspberries and cupcakes. We commend Rubicon Bakers for its commitment to hire and support those with significant barriers to employment. It’s our honor to extend that mission to our neighboring Seattle area by donating to FareStart in addition to the good that is done by purchasing the cupcakes.”