Dénia bakery launches ‘world’s best cake’ to fund rare disease research

A traditional bakery in Dénia has launched a charity cake inspired by a three-year-old local boy living with an ultra-rare disease, with all profits going towards research and treatment.

Verdú Artesanos introduced “The best cake in the world” this week in support of Luca, a young boy diagnosed with IFAP syndrome, a condition so rare it affects around one person in a million. The initiative quickly gained attention across the Marina Alta region for combining local gastronomy with fundraising for a family facing enormous medical costs.

A cake inspired by Luca’s favourite things

The cake was created by master artisan Álvaro Verdú after speaking directly with Luca about the flavours he loved most. According to the bakery, the child requested “popcorn, caramel and a balloon,” which became the unusual inspiration behind the dessert. The result is a colourful cake designed not only as a sweet treat but also as a symbol of solidarity and hope for families living with rare diseases.

Luca’s parents have spent years trying to raise awareness of IFAP syndrome through social media and fundraising campaigns. Through their Instagram account, they document the daily challenges of the condition while also trying to connect with other affected families and researchers.

100 per cent of profits go to research

The bakery confirmed that all profits from sales of the cake will be donated directly to research and treatment linked to IFAP syndrome. The campaign also aims to expand beyond Dénia through online orders and partnerships with local restaurants and influencers supporting the cause.

According to reports, Luca’s family currently faces annual medical and research-related costs of around €70,000. Treatments involve regular visits to specialised hospitals and research institutions including centres in Valencia and Murcia. During the presentation of the initiative, Luca’s mother Cristina described the dessert as “the best cake” not simply because of its flavour, but because of “its solidarity and hope.”

Dénia rallies behind local family

The campaign has already attracted support from businesses and residents across the area, with many praising the initiative as an example of community solidarity in Dénia.

The cake is available both at Verdú Artesanos in Dénia and through a dedicated online shop serving customers across mainland Spain. The campaign will continue until June 19, with organisers hoping to raise significant funds while also increasing visibility for rare diseases that often struggle to receive public attention or institutional funding