Pastry chef Mitchell Moore is set to introduce his renowned cheesecakes to Baton Rouge with the launch of the Cheesecake Lab. Scheduled to open in September 2023 at 7970 Jefferson Hwy., this new dessert destination will allow customers to create their own miniature cheesecakes, choosing from original recipes or customizing plain options with a variety of toppings and sauces.
After gaining significant popularity for his cheesecakes in Jackson, Mississippi, Moore sold his two bakeries there and relocated to Baton Rouge to be closer to his wife’s family. “I developed my cheesecake recipes and processes while working full-time as a wholesaler in Jackson,” Moore shared in an interview. “Making 20 cheesecakes a day was a great education.”
At the Cheesecake Lab, guests will order from two kiosks. The original creations feature flavors like banana pudding and apple streusel cheesecake. For those preferring a more personal touch, plain mini cheesecakes can be customized in real time, as staff members add toppings and sauces of choice.
Initially, the focus will solely be on cheesecakes, with no beverages available at launch. However, Moore has indicated plans to offer bottled water and soft drinks in the future. He noted the presence of a coffee shop nearby, emphasizing a collaborative, rather than competitive, spirit. “I’m not a big competition, cut-throat capitalist guy,” he explained. “I’m more of a, ‘Hey, I’m doing cheesecake. You do coffee, and let’s both do fine.’”
Moore aims to provide a swift service experience, stating that customers will not have to wait long for their treats. “They will have a from-scratch cheesecake that would normally take them two-and-a-half hours to bake and two hours to chill,” he added.
Looking ahead, Moore has ambitious plans to franchise the Cheesecake Lab concept after refining operations at the initial location. He is currently in discussions to open two additional locations, potentially within the next 18 months. This expansion reflects Moore’s commitment to sharing his passion for cheesecakes with a wider audience.
With a unique approach to dessert customization and an emphasis on quality, the Cheesecake Lab is poised to become a favorite among Baton Rouge residents and visitors alike.
