CAKES
cakes, cupcakes, bakeries, baking tools
For a few annual celebrations, Sprinkles Cupcakes creates specific designs. These limited edition cupcakes are a quick and chic way to personalize your party or to simply highlight your day. The next four calendar events are in April and May.
Passover – April 19 to 26
Flourless Belgian dark chocolate cake topped with a Madagascar Bourbon vanilla bean glaze. A blue Star of David put the finishing touch to the Passover cupcake design.
Earth Day – April 21 to 25
Like they did in the past with the Pink Ribbon strawberry cupcake, Sprinkles will donate the proceeds of a dedicated cupcake. The proceeds will go to local tree planting and environmental care organizations. To show your support, get a vanilla cupcake with a green tree on the top.
Cinco de Mayo – May 2 to 5
Canadians are less familiar with Cinco de Mayo. Even though it pays tribute to a Mexican historical event, people of all ethnic origins in the United States embrace the celebrations. This is particularly true in areas with a large Mexican population like in California and the Southwest region of the United States.
Cinco de Mayo means 5th of May in English. According to Wikipedia
The holiday commemorates an initial victory of Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.
Sprinkles Cupcakes proposes a stunning Mexican-inspired Choco Loco cupcakes. A patriotic green and red dot decorated the Belgian dark chocolate cake with chocolate and Mexican cinnamon frosting.
MOM Box – May 9 to 11
With four flavors in the box, the Sprinkles daisies and MOM sugar icing decorations will carry a loving message to your mother. There is even a limited edition t-shirt collection for women and babies.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Sprinkles Cupcakes Calendar Collection
Learn more: Sprinkles Cupcakes MOM Apparel
Via: New holiday cupcakes from Sprinkles: Passover, Earth Day, Cinco de Mayo on Cupcakes Take The Cake
Categories:
HOLIDAY
CAKES
posted @ Friday, April 18, 2008 5:37 PM | Feedback (0)
When selecting a cake topper it is important that the bride and groom select one that represents well their couple. I am showing three that thinks outside the box.
Anime and Video Game Figurines
A cake topper is basically a cake doll. There is no reason why you should restrict your choose to a character wearing a wedding dress. With the profusion of adorable and well executed figurines from anime, video games and TV series, the universe of potential cake toppers is expanding fast.
Russ and Lisa selected Toshiro Hitsugaya and Momo Hinamori from the anime series Bleach as their wedding cake topper. The figurines carry a mystical, refined mood. I love it! Thanks to ToastyKen for posting his pictures of Russ and Lisa’s wedding on Flickr.
Objects as Cake Toppers
It does not have to be people. Objects can sit on top of a wedding cake. Meg and Bob did that. Their cake maker sculpted out of fondant a woman evening shoe for her next to a golf shoe for him. Check it out Meg & Bob Reception photographed by Hankins on Flickr.
Toppers for Couples with Flair
The dancing bride and groom look so happy and fun. The hip bride & groom metal cake topper is all about attitudes. Very movie stars or diva like! These two models will look great on modern style cakes and art deco cakes.
Two Things to Remember Before Selecting a Wedding Cake Topper
The cake topper must fit your personalities. Since the cake topper must look harmonious on your cake, make sure to talk to your cake designer before making your final choice. Bring a picture of the cake toppers that you like when you are meeting your cake maker. This way, you avoid any miscommunications.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Metal Wedding Cake Toppers at Beaucoup Wedding Favours – price: $69.99 USD
RELATED POSTS:
+ Your avatars as wedding cake toppers
+ Unique cake toppers by Chapeau de Gateau
+ Whimsical wedding cake toppers by Weddingstar
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Saturday, April 05, 2008 4:28 PM | Feedback (2)
When I realized yesterday night that this would be the 500th post of At Home with Kim Vallée, I started a search for the perfect cake to represent what my brand stands for: stylish, unique, modern, lively and entertaining. I found my match at I Dream of Cake in San Francisco.
Cake Gallery
When you walk into this appointment-only shop you are surrounded by the cream of the cream in cake decorations.
People did not nickname I Dream of Cake the Cake Gallery for nothing. The retail space is designed as a gallery. Naturally, every cake is made to order. With an art degree, the cake designer Shinmin Li refers to her cake creations as commissioning a piece of edible art. When I look at her cake creations, I must agree with Shinmin.
It took me a while to create my board due to abundance of fabulous cake designs on her Web site. Her Wedding cakes are incredible and so the rest of I Dream of Cake creations. People commission cakes for all occasions from kid birthday cakes to sweet 16, bar mitzvahs, christenings up to anniversaries.
Design Philosophy
If you wish to know more about the creative process of Shinmin Li, I encourage you to watch a series of short videos on Chow. You will see how Shinmin Li is passionate about her work. As a segment of the regular series called Obsessives on Chow, the videos concentrate on the heights to which a wedding cake baker will go.
I encourage you to check out her Haute Couture cake gallery, the Fine Art section and the Luxuries. A pure pleasure for the eyes! Strangely, it seems that the corporate world is not as adventurous in their design. That is where her cake creations are less impressive. But it is due to the theme not the execution.
How much a cake costs?
Wedding cakes range from $10-$25 per serving. Smaller wedding cakes start at $600. Custom cakes start at $400. Since these cakes are labor intensive, plan well ahead.
Be prepared before you go to the first appointment. Any cake maker needs to know as much as possible about the event and your taste. Try at least to imagine the mood and feel of the event or what party style you are aiming for. You need to have a accurate estimate of the number of portions. The more a cake maker knows, the easier it is to satisfy your request.
I Dream of Cake does not only strive for the best in style, they care a lot about the taste. Shinmin Li believes that eating the cake is 50% of the pleasures. It breaks her heart when people do not eat the cake because they are afraid of cutting it. If you order an elaborate and expensive cake like those, you probably hire a high end catering team. These professionals should know how to properly cut the cakes even if it is an unusual cake shape.
Sourcing:
Watch: Let’s Get Married, Let’s Have Cake by Meredith Arthur, Eric Slatkin, and Blake Smith on Chow
Learn more: I Dream of Cake
RELATED POSTS:
+ Exquisite Sugar Cake Decorations
+ Two talented Canadian Cake Makers
+ Delightful artistic cakes
Categories:
KIDS party
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Wednesday, April 02, 2008 12:39 PM | Feedback (3)
I am always watching for stylishly decorated cupcakes. Fondant decorated cakes are my favorites. So imagine how glad I was yesterday when I came across the most stunning cupcakes I ever saw.
The power of social networks
My journey started by looking at the Facebook profile of new friends I made last Wednesday at the Montreal Girl Geek Dinner. I spotted a comment about a cupcake montage for the m0851 Fashion Show and Press conference. This event occurred this week as part of the current Montreal Fashion Week. This is how I discovered Michelle, the talented girl behind Clever Cupcakes.
Custom designs
What I am showing you are the Creative cupcakes. My husband and I are planning to host a Nintendo Wii party in a near future. We were both ecstatic in front of the Super Mario Brothers Cupcakes and the Pacman Cupcakes. I really appreciate the profusion of fine details in these hand-made fondant decorations.
It is not just the cucpcakes for geeks and Ninetendo fans that are stunning. Clever Cupcakes cater different styles. You can ask her to design something special for baby showers, kid birthdays, wedding showers and a tea party.
Clever Cupcakes made 7 dozens of chocolate and vanilla cupcakes with chocolate and vanilla buttercream topped with handmade fondant decorations for teacher appreciation week at two local schools. The teachers must have been happy.
How to order from Clever Cupcakes?
Operating like a catering company, their cupcakes are made to order. They are baked fresh for delivery in the Montreal area. People can place their order online or by phone.
Their is no minimum quantity for the creative cupcakes. The regular and the wholesome cupcakes are sold by the dozen.
About the food
All their Her Wholesome cupcakes are sweetened with Agave Nectar, a natural sweetener often considered suitable for diabetics. Clever Cupcakes can satisfy all the taste buds with a wide selection of cake flavors, icings and fillings. The Boston Cream filling and the All Chocolate are supposed to be exquisite.
You can order your cupcakes in the regular size or as mini cupcakes. Beside the adorable Creative cupcakes, there are Classic cupcakes. The Wholesome series is an upscale, healthier version of the classic due to the agave nectar and the choice of unbleached organic flour and the 100% Whole Wheat flour.
I will share my experience with Clever Cupcakes after our Wii party or my birthday, whichever comes first. If you tasted these cupcakes before, feel free to share your experience.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Clever Cupcakes
Categories:
PARTY ideas
KIDS party
CAKES
posted @ Saturday, March 29, 2008 1:35 PM | Feedback (3)
Travel + Leisure magazine published this month an interesting review of 5 cupcake shops in Los Angeles. Each of these old-fashioned American cake shops has something different to offer.
The winners stand out through their recipes, cake decorations and packaging. Here are 5 cupcakes shops that emerge as the place to go.
Bluebird Café
From my research on the Web, the cupcakes of the Bluebird Café in Culver City are delicious. Their Crayola-bright cupcakes are offered in mini sizes. A practical format if you cannot make up your mind or when you set up a dessert table. Located in Culver City, Bluebird Café attracts the movie studio crews.
Since I did not taste in myself, I looked for a second opinion on the Web. I found a review by the food blogger Bree Crocetti of Triplecreme who said in 2006 the following:
I could not resist trying their red velvet cupcake - one of the best I have had. They frosted it with a thin, light, creamy, cream cheese frosting, much like Royal Icing. The cake was a beautiful dark red, baked to perfection. Much better than Susiscakes!
Danties Cupcakes
Winner of the Best of LA 2007 in the cupcake category, the owners of Danties Cupcakes have been serving cupcakes to their catering clients for the past six years. Danties Cupcakes is their shop dedicated to cupcakes. They do not use sugar icing; instead, they decorate with whipped cream.
Bree of Triplecreme added a taste of the cupcakes at Danties and she said:
Danties has two things going for them: a smart little box with a level of holes the cupcakes fit in, preventing them from sliding around, and their cupcakes are unlike the others on the market.
SusieCakes
A shot of frosting goes inside the cupcakes at SusieCakes. Called Susie’s Signature Frosting Filled Cupcakes, it is available in regular format or the bite size.
Their Red Velvet Cake outsells any other cakes 5 to 1. Every day, SusieCakes makes 11 flavors of cupcakes. Naturally, the Red Velvet is their most popular. Other winners are their chocolate cupcake with a mint frosting, a chocolate frosting or a peanut butter frosting.
To get a better idea of the place, watch this TV report hosted by Marisa Petroro for Canal 22 Los Angeles. With Sprinkles Cupcakes, SusieCakes is my favorite. The owner Susie Sarich seems so sweet.
Violet’s Cakes
This shop was the dream of Denise Weber. Some of her cupcake recipes originate from her grandmothers; although she altered them. Violet’s Cakes is open five days a week, from Tuesday to Saturday. The selection of thirteen flavors changes daily.
Sprinkles Cupcakes
I talked about Sprinkles Cupcakes before. I love this brand for the clean, modern design of their store and their cupcakes. Basically, Sprinkles Cupcakes fits more into my style than some of the overly old-fashioned cupcakes bakery.
What do you think?
Since I did not hold a tasting session myself, I would have to hear your thoughts about any of these 5 brands? Did Travel + Leisure select the best ones in Los Angeles?
Sourcing:
Learn more: Travel + Leisure magazine – march 2008 issue
Categories:
TRAVEL
CAKES
posted @ Friday, February 29, 2008 10:40 PM | Feedback (0)
After a career as a jewelry, fashion and accessories designer, Alison Dawson found a new vocation when she founded Chapeau de Gateau (cake hat in French).
As you can see, Alison Dawson produces stylish cake toppers. Every detail is taking care including delivering your one-of-a-kind cake topper in a keepsake box.
Ideal for wedding and any special occasions, each Chapeau de Gateau topper is handmade with the finest quality Mokuba ribbons. These ribbons are imported from Japan.
Cake toppers can be chosen from the Chapeau de Gateau line. For the ultimate in event design harmonization, opt for a custom designed topper.
The talented cake maker / decorator, Papillon Cakes, that I introduced two days ago, works with Chapeau de Gateau.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Chapeau de Gateau
RELATED POSTS:
+ Your avatars as wedding cake toppers
+ Fresh Ideas for Wedding Cake Toppers
+ Whimsical wedding cake toppers by Weddingstar
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Tuesday, February 12, 2008 1:21 AM | Feedback (1)
If you are still looking for inspiration to compose your mini menu on Valentine’s Day, I spotted some pretty romantic recipes on Tastespotting.
Start or end the day with a Hot Chocolate
If you are in New York City this February, schedule a stop at for their famous Hot Chocolate Festival. I wrote it down on my itinerary. Daily flavors are offered on top of the regular blend.
Today, it’s Darkest Dark Hot Chocolate. On the 14th, it’s the Love Potion Hot Chocolate. While a Caramel Hot Chocolate and Chili Pepper Hot Chocolate will be served on February 16th and the 17th respectively. The City Bakery sells its hot chocolates in a shot size at $2 but you can savor a full-sized cup for $4.50. Add 50 cents for a marshmallow.
Otherwise, make your own hot chocolate by melting small pieces of fine chocolate (the darker the better for me) in warmed milk, then sugar and add a dash of vanilla and a cayenne pepper. You can try the Hot Hot Cocoa recipe by Michael Smith.
Inspiration for a meal
For a stress free solution, prepare your favorite food but add an element of surprise in the food presentation. To jazz things up, add one new recipe like this lovely Broccoflower Soup from La Tartine Gourmande.
Cupcakes and sweets
I saw Chef Michael Smith made similar tuxedo chocolate dipped strawberries last week. It looks so easy when done by an expert. You will find on Simply Recipes a step by step guide to make your own.
For desserts, why not serve homemade cupcakes? It is strange for me to say but I do like the way these fondant roses nicely decorate these cupcakes. The technique used seems simple. I guess that crafty beginners can probably give it a try. The rose cupcakes were made by the talented woman behind Bakerella, a blog full of stylish baked goodies.
Otherwise, I find you a simpler cupcake design on The Recipe Girl. In fact, she reproduced a recipes from Better Homes and Garden's Magazine.
Everything except roses for me
By the way, I do not like roses. My husband knows me well enough to grasp that fact since the beginning of our relationship. He showed originality by giving me divine bouquets other than the trivial red rose dozens on Valentine’s Day or at any other moment. So if you are a man, I suggest you ask your florist for something new this Valentine. Ask for a creative arrangement that reflects the personality of the one you love.
Sourcing on Tastespotting:
Hot chocolate festival spotted by Melinda2
Luscious chocolate strawberries spotted by spunpuppy
Broccoflower Soup spotted by GingerbreadGirl03
Bakerella's cupcakes for Valentine spotted by GingerbreadGirl03
Red Velvet Cupcakes spotted by RecipeGirl
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
TRENDS
CAKES
posted @ Monday, February 11, 2008 9:38 PM | Feedback (0)
Like everything else, the cake industry has evolved a lot over the years. The popularity of the TV series Ace of Cakes gives more ideas to people.
If you want a one-of-a-kind marvelous cake, first of all know that it is pricey because it requires a lot of time and know-how to decorate these remarkable cakes.
These cakes are popular at weddings, since people often allocate a huge budget for their wedding cake. If you plan an extraordinary party for a milestone birthday, a 25th wedding anniversary, a baptism or a shower, you cannot pretend to host the ultimate stylish event without a fabulous cake.
How does it work?
The process starts with a consultation and cake tasting, often complimentary. Be prepared before you set up a meeting. It is best to sit down with the cake maker after you booked your venue. Figure out the style of your event first as the cake must harmonize with the rest of your theme and decorative elements. You need to have a pretty good idea of how many guests will assist or be invited.
You must decide if your cake will be served as your primary dessert or later in the evening because it influences the portion size. How many portions you need directly influences the design options for the cake.
My board put the spotlight on two creative teams from Canada with their own personality.
Luscious Creations
The first column shows two cakes made by a young team, Luscious Creations from Port Coquitlam, British Columbia. Since late 2006, Luscious Creations takes custom orders for any kind of baked goods, taking all dietary restrictions into account, be it, dairy-free, wheat-free or even vegan baking.
I really like the cupcake tower cakes. It is whimsical yet refined. The design of this cake works well in several surroundings from the wooden lodge on the lake up to a casual luxury location.
Kid Birthday Parties
Luscious Creations proposes something fun for kid birthday parties. Parents do not have to stress out in long preparations. Luscious Creations will supply 2 cupcakes for each child to decorate, a yummy healthy lunch, and a special present for your future cake artist. I think it is a cool activity to entertain the kids.
Papillon Cakes
Located in Toronto, Papillon Cakes strives for elegance and for the appeal to your senses. It was difficult selecting which cakes I would featured since they are all fabulous. I first introduced Papillon Cakes last July in a story about coordinating the design your invites and your cake.
Before being formally trained as a Pastry chef, Diana Stepanovic used to work in dentistry. As you can see on the 4 pictures on the right, she traded on the levels of details for other very successfully.
To savor their beautiful creations, know that Papillon Cakes produces wedding cakes that range from $500 to $6000 CAD. For the wows that you will get, it is definitely worth every penny.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Gallery of Luscious Creations
Learn more: Papillon Cakes
RELATED POSTS:
+ Matching wedding cake and invite design
+ I Dream of Cake
+ Cake decorating classes at Bonnie Gordon Cakes
Categories:
KIDS party
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Sunday, February 10, 2008 12:19 PM | Feedback (3)
I am not a huge fan of wedding cake toppers but these ones got my attention. As a leisure gamer, I found those cake toppers pretty amazing.
Targeting the fans of Nintendo Wii this Valentine, Paul Pape Designs got an overwhelming demand. Their production does not start there. Paul Pape Designs also produces clay imitations of your game avatar characters.
For a wedding, the mid and deluxe options are worthwhile. For $200, the deluxe version delivers a custom job including the reproduction of your wedding dress and the groom's tuxedo. You can decide on your own pose and even, add a scenery.
Not just for getting hitched!
If it is your birthday, have them create a clay imitative sculpture for your event.
Paul Pape Designs is also renowned for its true-to-scale, laser die-cut paper furniture called Pop-Out Furniture.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Mid-grade Cake Topper by Paul Pape Designs - price: $150
Via: Chocolate Mii for you and Wii on Popgadget
RELATED POSTS:
+ Fresh Ideas for Wedding Cake Toppers
+ Unique cake toppers by Chapeau de Gateau
+ Whimsical wedding cake toppers by Weddingstar
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Friday, January 25, 2008 12:56 AM | Feedback (7)
The best way to teach children good eating habits is by teaching how to cook at a young age. And since kids like to imitate grownups, they are typically excited by this activity.
Cooking tools for kids
This idea is born while browsing through the catalogue of Sagaform for another post. If you wan tot develop the habit to cook with your kids, it is best to get gears designed for them.
From Sagaform, teach your kids good taste by giving them a cute hand painted Pastry Board with Rolling Pin made of birch. Sagaform To make cakes, get the Baking set completed with a Spatula, a whisk and cake tins.
A mother herself, Sophie Conran proposed a Mummy's & Mine cooking set. Part of the Sophie Conran for Portmeirion collection, it has everything young boys and girls need to start baking. This gift set contains a child's hat and apron, two star cookie cutters, a porcelain mini-jug, a mini pouring bowl, plus a box paper cups.
Do not let the name distract you, it is for daddy too. Cooking with kids, when it is not done in the middle of the afternoon is a pleasing way to pass time together.
Recipes for cooking with kids
Specialized books target the family with kids. The Family Kitchen invites kids into the kitchen to help, teaching them kitchen skills, encouraging them to discover new flavors and bonding with them. Each breakfast, lunch and dinner recipe lists tasks that kids (even little ones) can enjoy doing.
Another favorite is Williams Sonoma Kids Baking. Reviewers commented that they cook with their kids of 3 to 6 age old with this book. Parents enjoy receiving gifts that involved their kids. I am adding family cooking books on my best list of unique hostess gifts.
Since you may not have time to go shopping for books, try out the Chocolate Pudding recipe from Martha Stewart. This week-end, go ahead and plan a baking session with your kids and their friends.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Pastry board with rolling pin by Sagaform - price: £22.95 at Forma
Buy online: 4-piece Baking Set by Sagaform - price: £14.95 at Forma
For Canadians: Sophie Conran Mummy's and Mine Set - price: $59.95 at Linen Chest
For Americans: Sophie Conran by Portmeirion Sets Mummy's And My Cooking Set - price: $50 at Amazon.com
Buy online: The Family Kitchen
Buy online: Williams Sonoma Kids Baking
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
KIDS party
CAKES
FAMILY style
posted @ Friday, January 11, 2008 4:54 PM | Feedback (1)
January 6 officially marks the end of the Christmas celebrations. You should take down all your Holiday decorations by this date.
Epiphany is referred to as Three Kings Day for commemorating the visit of Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar, the three Magi.
But really, everyone can host an Epiphany party since beside its origin no religious ceremony is involved on the celebrations as I know it. And the Three Kings Day customs are fun and simple!
What is a traditional Three Kings Day party?
To make a story short, the tradition goes like that. You host a feast and serve a cake for dessert with a hidden dried bean inside a King cake or the Galette des Rois (puff pastry with an almond paste). You served a piece of cake to everyone. The person who found the Bean is elected King or Queen for the day. The custom implies giving a gift and a head crown to the winner. The winner elects his Queen or her King.
I recalled when I was a kid, I looked forward for Epiphany. I was either invited to a party or my mother would throw a party with my friends and cousins. It is not just for kids, the event has been popular with adults for centuries. I encourage you to have one this Sunday.
The dried bean has been replaced by porcelain trinket for practical reason. Also, the winner can keep it as a souvenir. The trinket can be whatever you like although a small human sculpture is more typical.
I searched pictures on Flickr and on the blogosphere for samples of Galette des Rois and King Cake. In Provence, they eat a large round bun filled with candied fruits. They are all delicious with a coffee or a tea.
Hyperky on Flickr
The first picture was taken by hyperky. I selected this one from her Galette des Rois set because this picture illustrated everything you need for your Epiphany party. I enjoy the lighting effects on that picture.
I invite you to check the rest of her fabulous food related pictures. If the pictures of hyperky do not inspire you to cook more, I do not know what will.
Epicurious.com
If you are looking for a recipe, I find a Puff Pastry Tart Filled with Almond Cream recipe on Epicurious. Read the comments of the reviewers to decide how to make one to your liking.
Algarvebuzz.com
Portuguese make a Bolo Rei, the Portuguese adaptation of the Provencal candied fruits bun. This colorful Bolo Rei was made by Eddie of the attractive Algarve Buzz blog. Candied fruit cakes are not my favorite cake typically and neither Eddie. So she got creative and switched the candied fruit for cranberries, chocolate and almonds, to suit her taste. I think it is a worthy lesson.
You can read more about the traditions of Epiphany in Portugal and the Bolo Rei cake on her blog. Algarve Buzz is a blog where you can discover incredible food, wine, scores of festivals, nightlife and the heat of the Algarve region.
foéÖþoooey on Flickr
Then, I spotlighted the third attempt of making a Galette des Rois by a single guy from Seattle that seems to enjoy cooking. In his opinion, this recipe is about as close to heaven as pastry can get. The pictures taken by foéÖþoooey surely look inviting for a French pastry lover like me.
Check out the book titled from the book The Food of France, a Journey for Food Lovers for the Pithiviers or Galette des rois recipe.
You can host a Three Days King event at any time of the day since the piece of resistance, the dessert can be eaten from morning to night. So why not having an Epiphany brunch for a change?
Sourcing:
Top Left picture: Fève du matin ( Galette des rois ) taken by hyperkya – 2008 copyright photo used with the permission of hyperkya
Top Right picture: Puff Pastry Tart Filled with Almond Cream Recipe at Epicurious.com – photo by Romulo Yanes
Bottom Left picture: Bolo Rei - Portuguese Christmas Cake published on Algarve Buzz – copyright photo
Bottom Right picture: Pithiviers or Galette des Rois, Third Attempt taken by foéÖþoooey – copyright photo
Buy online: The Food of France, a Journey for Food Lovers at Amazon.com
Categories:
PARTY ideas
HOLIDAY
CAKES
posted @ Friday, January 04, 2008 3:25 PM | Feedback (3)
It is simpler to separate a cake into identical pieces, but the fact of the matter is that everyone wants a different size. When it comes to desserts, the host needs to please the dieters, the large appetites and the ones in the middle.
You can cut the pieces at different sizes yourself but these pre-shaped pieces look better. And you will always have enough portions with this neat invention by Konstantin Slawinski.
How it works?
S-XL Cake SL14 is a silicone cake mold that produces 15 portions from small to extra large. The pieces vary in widths and heights. In my opinion, S-XL Cake would not be ideal as a birthday cake but it becomes handy on the dessert buffet table. Decorate each piece individually while creating a unique overall design. You can put some berries over a little coat of frosting or whipped cream.
If you are planning a baby shower, you can bring a coffee cake done in it. Test the cake mold by baking a Chocolate Cake a la Vera Slawinski. The recipe is published on the back of the SL14 postcard available online via the Download button.
If you are interested, you will need to wait because the S-XL Cake Mold is out of stock at Vessel right now. Or you can preorder now and pay less at Charles & Marie. Canadians will be happy to know that you can order at Vessel with no duty charges.
Sourcing:
Buy online: S-XL Cake Form at Vessel – price: $49 USD
Buy online: S-XL Cake Mold - Presale Feb. 2008 at Charles & Marie – price: $33 USD
Learn more: Web site of Konstantin Slawinski
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
CAKES
posted @ Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:47 PM | Feedback (1)
Stylish entertaining calls for dramatic effects. To quickly add a touch of sophistication nothing beats elegant cake pedestals.
For tea party treats, pastries, sweet delights and cupcakes go with a three tier model. Since they stack together, you can only use one or two if that is what you need. Not just for desserts, stands can be used to serve canapés and tapas.
My favorites from the selection at Neiman Marcus (and Horchow) are definitely the floral black and ivory Covered Cake Plate, the Lavender Glass Cake Stands series and the Cupcake Stand series.
I saw the black Scalloped Cake Stands at Ballard Designs. If you make a long dessert table, black scalloped cake stands match well with flocked black and ivory cake plate.
If you are looking for a Moorish motif dinnerware set, the Morena 16-Piece Dinnerware Set is an affordable option. You can see the salad plate beside the black stands.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Covered Cake Plate at Neiman Marcus – price: $180 USD
Buy online: Lavender Cake Stands at Neiman Marcus – on sale: $179.90 for the three tier set, pieces also sold separately
Buy online: Cupcake Stands at Neiman Marcus –– on sale: $99.90 for the three tier set, pieces also sold separately
Buy online: Scalloped Cake Stands at Ballard Designs – price from $39.50 to $49.50 USD
Buy online: Morena 16-Piece Dinnerware Set at Ballard Designs – price:$99.50 USD
Categories:
DISHING tips
TABLEWARE
CAKES
posted @ Wednesday, November 21, 2007 2:38 PM | Feedback (4)
I went looking for inspirations on how to decorate cupcakes for you on Flickr. I would several types.
Textile cupcakes
First, Amigurumi Kingdom is excellent at crafting decorative cupcakes. Although you cannot eat her creations, they would be a cute way to decorate your dessert table at a baby shower or a party.
Super Mario cupcakes
My husband is a gamer and we like to host Wii parties as I told you earlier. Hello Naomi makes these amazing Super Mario cupcakes. The levels of details are well executed. I wish I knew how to decorate cupcakes like that. These cupcakes are perfect for birthday parties for kids and adults that enjoy video games.
So grab your fondant and baking gear and challenge your friends this week-end to a game of Super Mario Galaxy for the Wii. You can read a review on Gamespot.
Sourcing:
Inspiration: Cupcakes! set by Amigurumi Kingdom
Inspiration: Super Mario Cupcakes set by Hello Naomi
Via: adorable upcakes on Hostess with the Mostess
Categories:
DISHING tips
CAKES
posted @ Friday, November 16, 2007 1:32 PM | Feedback (2)
Tuesday night on my way home from a conference, I passed by the front store of Petits Gateaux, one of the few cupcake shops in Montreal.
Their Halloween cupcakes on the front window caught my eyes. Look at them as a source of inspirations to bake and decorate your own cupcakes for a Halloween party.
I guess that these looks can be reproduced successfully if you possess some skills in cake decorations. I really like the RIP designs and they can be a hit with children. I am predicting that the eye would not go unnoticed.
About Petits Gateaux
Located in the heart of the Plateau Mont-Royal, Petits Gateaux store design is another retro style concept. I am tired of the retro old-fashioned concept for cupcake shops. Are you? Still, this little cake bakery got fans in the city.
For their simple Halloween cupcake designs, Petits Gateaux won points on my book. Especially, since these seems like good DIY projects. If you give them a try, do not forget to share your tips with us.
Petits Gateaux
783 Mont-Royal Avenue East
Montreal, QC H2J 1W8
T 514.510.5488
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site of Petits Gateaux
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+ Carving pumpkins stencils
+ Creepy Halloween treats and cocktails
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Categories:
HOLIDAY
CAKES
posted @ Thursday, October 18, 2007 1:32 AM | Feedback (2)
A reader T. asked for my advice. She is planning a baby shower at the office for her sophisticated boss. The baby room décor involved red and white toile fabric with gold and yellow accents.
T. told me she enjoy the French style baby shower board I made earlier this month. But since her event will occur at the office; she would prefer a simpler scheme. I put the accents on what she mostly needs help: paper plates, napkins and cakes.
T. expects 40 guests at this baby shower. From a cleaning time and money viewpoints, she opts for disposable products.
How to determine the decor style?
First, I decided that the napkins will harbor the Toile theme. With that in mind, it appears that a plate model with solid center where the rim as the center of attention will harmonize nicely with the napkins. I feel that full pattern plates lose their appeal once you filled them with food.
Before you start looking for products, imagine the scheme in your mind. It will guide your choice when shopping. You either select what comes closer to your initial plan or decide to update your plan.
Stylish paper plates and napkins by Caspari
I always gravitate towards complementary pieces rather than kits. Here I felt in love with this fuchsia and gold filigree border dinner plate by Caspari available at Fine Stationery. Once you find a great piece, you search for the complimentary pieces. The gold Angel Guest Towel napkins harmonize the plate. Both are powerful pieces. Together they make a statement.
I think that the three-ply-paper guest towel format looks almost as sophisticated as real linen napkins. This format suits very well a baby shower party. I suggest you roll them in advance with utensils inside and tie them up with a tiny gold or pink satin ribbon. A medium paper weight soft pink rimmed dessert plate will finish the meal in beauty and let the place to the dessert.
The light green glass is from cb2. The Satellite HD dish glasses have an unusual modern shape. Use them to serve fruit salad and sorbet in top of drinks. The Green Paper Cups by Caspari is an option for coffee or tea.
A second plate and napkin combination
I went to Polka Dot Design to compose another combination. The pink rim and gold border square plate looks sophisticated because of the gold border. I found the Rose Festive Toile luncheon napkins. The napkins are also available at Plum Party.
What is for dessert?
French excels at bakery. I suggest you go with classical cakes like the rich Opera Cake or the lighter Passionberry Duo. Serve smaller pieces if you opt for the outstanding Opera cake. Then serve an after-dessert treats called mignardises (bite sized baked items, confections, chocolate and truffles) to add a true French twist. Serve the mignardises with coffee or tea.
Caspari made a commitment to the environment
Although they make disposable napkins and plates, Caspari tries to do less damages to nature. Here is what they have to say about their commitment:
One of our key suppliers is a leader in the use of renewable resources such as wind powered electricity. The fiber they use to make paper comes from managed forests. In addition, Caspari Inc. uses only water based dyes for our napkins and plates. The bleaching of our napkins in preproduction uses oxygen instead of chlorine, eliminating the use of harmful chemicals.
There is no reason why could not bring elegance to an office baby shower party. If you do this, they will never be the same.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Paper plates by Caspari at Fine Stationery
Buy online: Napkins by Caspari at Fine Stationery
Buy online: Tabletop accessories at Polka Dot Design
Buy online: Festive Toile collection at Plum Party – available in rose, blue and black
Learn more: European Desserts at Sweet Street Desserts
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+ Fashion-forward metropolitan diva baby shower
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Categories:
PAPER goods
BABY showers
CAKES
posted @ Tuesday, October 16, 2007 1:34 AM | Feedback (4)
Maybe being interviewed by a journalist about party ideas for the upcoming Holidays put me into the Lucite and glass mode, but these pictures inspired me. Plexiglas and glass containers are hot to serve food in the catering industry.
My mood board reads like a chronicle: the wedding party, the after party treats and the new house kitchen. Exceptionally, it showcased 4 bloggers instead of 3.
1 | Hostess for the Mostess for Inspiration Tuesday: Think Bold
A favorite of Hostess by the Mostess, Simple Stunning Weddings is a gorgeous book from wedding planner Karen Bussen. These monochromatic photos and modern minimalist Lucite servers & glass arrangements create an impressive drink display. This
I dug a source for Lucite buffet risers. They do not look as sharp as those. I suspect the drink displays used in the book were custom made. If you know where we can buy something similar, do not be shy to share the information.
2 | Style Me Pretty for Inspired Weddings
A bird cage on a cake. What a remarkable idea, especially when it well executed like here. This wedding cake was created by Lark Cake Shop but it would be at its place at a milestone birthday party or a formal dinner party. It is simply magnificent! Being inspired by this cake, Style Me Pretty crafted a wedding mood board.
3 | black . white . bliss for Happy Pills
A new blog for me, black . white . bliss presented Happy Pills, a hip candy store located in Barcelona. This small retailer invented a unique concept. Instead of bringing home the candies you buy in a bag, you can opt for a bento-style pill box, prescription bottles and pill carry-on plastic containers. A unique idea for a wedding party favors and the color complements our wedding cake.
4 | Apartment Therapy for Slinksn. (slingks)
The latest Slinksn by Apartment Therapy featured the jewel-toned glass cabinets from Ernestomeda. This kitchen is called Barrique and it has the most incredible wine bottle holder you ever seen.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Simple Stunning Weddings at Amazon.com
Buy online: Acrylic risers for buffet table
Learn more: Web site of Lark Cake Shop
Learn more: Web site of Ernestomeda
Categories:
HOME decor
GIFT ideas
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Monday, October 01, 2007 11:30 AM | Feedback (0)
If you wish to create awareness for a cause, throwing a party around your cause is a great idea.
For the fight against Breast Cancer, you can plan a dessert buffet or a tea party in the afternoon with your girlfriends.
I fell in love with the cute cupcakes by Sprinkles Cupcakes a few months ago. From October 1 to 14, they will donate the proceeds of the sales of their Pink Ribbon strawberry cupcakes to the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s Women’s Cancer Research Fund. During that period, the strawberry flavor will be available every day.
Modern decor, refined style and strong packaging
Frankly, the retro look so typical of cupcake bakeries look tired; we need more varieties. Here come Sprinkles Cupcakes that opened its first shop in Beverly Hills in 2005. At last, a fresh and modern architecture boutique décor.
Sprinkles developed two signature looks; each one is fabulous for any party. Who can resist the cool fondant dot on a flavored buttercream frosting? And pouring monochromatic French chocolate sprinkles adds sophistication to the small cake. Unusual flavors like chai latte and ginger lemon coexist with the classic mocha, carrot and vanilla. There is something for everyone taste.
How Sprinkles Cupcakes add even more elegance to your party?
1 | An array of special decorations for custom made cupcakes
Your cupcakes can be decorated with any of the 24 cutout shapes representing vegetation, animals, emotions, items or occasions.
For a 70’s party theme, the Peace and Love sign is so a propos. And with all the violence in our world, why not host a party to embrace peace at every level of our life? The Peace sign is perfect for a New Year’s Eve party. The Tree can symbolize the environment or simply be a Christmas ornament. The custom made cupcakes have a low minimum order of a dozen per decoration.
2 | The party tray and the cupcake tower
Sprinkles sells a custom made cupcake tray with so much flair that it can replace a birthday cake. Send or bring the Sprinkles cupcake tray filled with a dozen cupcakes firmly in place in the cute gift box. The tray can be recycled as a votive candle holder or stored until your next batch of cupcakes.
You can serve 2 to 3 dozens of cupcakes with a three-tiered cupcake tower. Buy the tower with the ribbon kit for $15 USD or add your own ribbon and buy the cupcake tower at $10.
3 | The favor box
At the end of the event, it is nice to thank your friends that made a donation. Nothing is more efficient than a little incentive. Let them bring home a cupcake in a favor box.
If you do not have time to throw a party, you can still make our friends aware of your support to the fight against Breast Cancer. You could send one Pink Ribbon strawberry cupcake with a donation form and a note card to a list of friends. This unexpected gesture is sure to get their attention.
Locations of Sprinkles Cupcakes
Right now, there are 4 locations in the United States with 15 more scheduled boutiques. These cupcakes are popular amongst celebrities. Beverly Hills, Newport Beach, Dallas and Phoenix-Scottsdale are the lucky residents that can enjoy Sprinkles Cupcakes at the moment.
If you live to far, you can buy online neatly packaged cupcake mixes for $14. Stock a few cylinders in any of the 6 flavors since the cupcake mix makes a remarkable hostess gift.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site of Sprinkles Cupcakes – price: $3.25 each or $36 for a dozen
Buy online: Gift items available at Sprinkles Cupcakes
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+ More cupcake designs
+ Cupcake desk cards
Categories:
PARTY ideas
CAKES
PARTY favors
posted @ Saturday, September 29, 2007 12:45 AM | Feedback (3)
We all dream to be able to decorate cakes with like the pro instead of making all-buttercream cakes. If you are not a beginner cake decorator, you may be ready to learn the art of fondant and royal icing.
Before you invest in cake decorating classes, flip the pages of books to see if this is for you. I compiled a list of 4 excellent books.
They all received great reviews on Amazon.com by people that effectively tried to make the cakes. And they passed my tests for the aesthetic and the usefulness of their instructions.
Spectacular Cakes: Special Occasion Cakes for any Celebration by Mich Turner
Mich Turner's credentials include wedding cakes for Madonna, Pierce Brosnan, Paul McCartney, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. In November 2005, her first book Spectacular Cakes was published. She wrote a second book which will hit the store on November 6, 2007.
Her book, Spectacular Cakes goes over cake decoration styles and techniques from the traditional to the cutting edge. Mich Turner's book supplies cake recipes plus a portfolio of incredible cake designs with step-by-step that you can copy or adapt to suit any formal or informal event.
Cakes to Dream On: A Master Class in Decorating by Colette Peters
The second book of Colette Peters targets serious home bakers and chefs. But this book cannot be a source of inspirations for all of us. I saw some easy to understand graphics via the See Inside feature of Amazon. The instructions and techniques seem easy to grasp. The difficulty, I thing, comes from the execution.
Cakes to Dream On unveils how to construct a multi-tiered cake, from determining serving sizes and choosing appropriate cake pans to making fillings, and ultimately stacking layers so they don't tumble off the table. Cakes to Dream On is the most dated one of the four, having been released in November 2004.
Pretty Party Cakes: Sweet and Stylish Cakes and Cookies for All Occasions by Peggy Porschen
Like Mich Tuner, London-based Peggy Porschen is a cake decorator who catered to celebrities. In Pretty Party Cakes, Peggy shares the tricks behind her showstopper cookies, cupcakes, and cakes. They are supposed to be as easy to create as they are spectacular.
Some reviewers on Amazon.com said that this book is more accessible than Cakes to Dream On by Collette Peters while other complained about the lack of instructions for multi-tiered cakes. Since these are affordable, I suggest you get both books. Pretty Party Cakes was first published in April 2006.
The Confetti Cakes Cookbook: Spectacular Cookies, Cakes, and Cupcakes from New York City's Famed Bakery by Elisa Strauss and Christie Matheson
If you were a fan of Sex and the City, you might recall the extravagantly beautiful, three-tiered Chocolate Embroidery Wedding Cake done by the Confetti Cakes. Their cookbook contains projects for every skill level.
Featured projects run from the relatively easy Pool Ball Cupcakes, Dice Mini Cakes and Snowflake Cookies to more advanced items like Teacup Mini Cakes that look like detailed porcelain. This is the most recent book of the four; it was published in May 2007.
These four books will help you create show stopper cakes if you have some cake decoration skills and patience. In the worst case scenario, they make delightful coffee table books.
If you have a friend who enjoys baking and cake decorating, why not bring one of these books as a hostess gift? That is an excellent trick to be invited again since your friend will want to show off her creations.
Sourcing:
Buy online: SPECTACULAR CAKES: Special Occasion Cakes for any Celebration
– price: $23.10 USD
Buy online: Cakes to Dream On: A Master Class in Decorating
– price: $26.40 USD
Buy online: Pretty Party Cakes: Sweet and Stylish Cakes and Cookies for All Occasions
– price: $18.90 USD
Buy online: The Confetti Cakes Cookbook: Spectacular Cookies, Cakes, and Cupcakes from New York City's Famed Bakery
– price: $19.79 USD
Categories:
GIFT ideas
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Wednesday, September 12, 2007 10:44 PM | Feedback (2)
If you are a fan of Martha Stewart, you are probably familiar with the cake creations of Wendy Kromer. Reproducing her look at home is possible if you buy online her fabulous decorative kits.
I guess that anyone who masters more than the basics of cake decoration can get a pleasing result. These handmade decorative items are carefully crafted. I have to warm you; these are fairly expensive cake decorations. But if you wish to impress your guests with a homemade cake, that is certainly the way to go.
You need to know that some pieces are just decorative. Due to the wires, none of the Marzipan Cherry pieces or the shown Hellebore leaves and flowers are meant be eaten. The Hellebore wired leaves and flowers appear tricky to do.
If you wish to eat them, order instead the box of 16 Marzipan Fall Leaves. Easier to use, these almond paste treats nicely decorate cakes or embellish your dessert trays.
Not just for wedding cakes
The Magical Marzipan Forest Cake Kit and the Marzipan Cherry Set produce my favorite looks for Fall celebrations. The Magical Forest kit is a complete set with all the marzipan acorns, mushroom, ferns, oak leaves, fiddleheads, and ladybugs required to decorate the cake as it appears in the Fall 2004 issue of Martha Stewart Weddings magazine.
These kits do not imply wedding per se. In my view, these two themes are even more suitable for a milestone birthday party or an extravagant celebration. If you want a simpler solution than a four tier cake, adjust the dimensions and make two cakes. In this scenario, vary the flavor of the cake.
These precious song birds are handcrafted from sugar paste and delicately painted with food color. You can specify your own color palette when ordering online. I will show you on my next post how the Sweet Song Birds can act as the surprising component of a sophisticated blue and brown inspiration board.
Cake decoration ideas for bridal and baby showers
Cupcakes and small cakes are all the rage at bridal showers and baby showers. With a nice smooth icing as the backdrop, it should take you no time to create a sophisticated look with the Blossom Cherry Kit.
One idea is to make a batch of cupcakes with a creamy vanilla icing backdrop, a batch with a light pink icing and a third batch with a chocolate icing. Group them by color or create two dessert trays with their own check board pattern. Each cupcake can get its own look since each set of 24 pieces includes three blossom sizes.
Make sure to plan ahead
Many cake decorations are made to order. The delay for delivery can be up to 8 weeks for some kits. I would suggest that you validate your quantity estimate with the staff at Wendy Kromer Confections before finalizing your order. If you wish to become the ultimate cake decorator within your friends, take a peek at the online catalogue.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Magical Marzipan Forest Cake Kit at Wendy Kromer Confections – price: $325 USD
Buy online: Marzipan Cherry Set at Wendy Kromer Confections – price: $210 USD
Buy online: Cherry Blossom Kit at Wendy Kromer Confections – price: $28 USD for a set of 24 pieces
Buy online: Hellebore Leaves at Wendy Kromer Confections – price: start at $2.50 USD each
Buy online: Hellebore Flowers at Wendy Kromer Confections – price: $9.50 USD each
Buy online: Sweet Song Birds at Wendy Kromer Confections – price: $100 USD for a set of 4
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Tags: cake shops, cake decorations, cakes, design, stylish, birthday, anniversary, wedding
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Monday, September 03, 2007 1:20 AM | Feedback (1)
Nothing can beat the traditional glass pastry domes for creating the ultimate dessert serving ware. I always have a fascination for these tall structures. They add more drama than the typical cake pedestals.
Pastry domes bring a touch of nostalgia to your dinner party. Most people associate them with formal dining settings but the rustic charm of many models make them suitable for casual dinner events. Think about it like the little black dress in your wardrobe, you can always dress it up or down.
Slick glassware models are popular but I prefer the mix of materials and finishes. Pastry domes with a wood base or a metallic base look very European. I guess that is one of the appeals for me. I found you three retailers on the Web at different price ranges and styles.
Airy and modern clear glassware
The top row is about clear glassware. For this reason, they look airy and modern. The 9 inches tall Domed Pastry Stand is sold for only $18 USD at The Gardener. The 13 inches costs $20. At these prices, they are no reason to not hide one or two in your party cupboard. You can fit one small cake or 3 to 5 pantries in each stand.
Gold glass pastry domes
The most stylish dessert stands are from Horchow. This is a store with amazing products. I am presenting you a collection made of pale gold glass with gold-leaf finished stems.
There is just enough gold glows to be stylish and make the pieces look special. This is a luxury you can afford. The price is only $30 for a 12 inches tall pastry dome, $35 for the 16 inches and $40 for the 20 inches.
Having a trio makes the best presentation. Use them to nicely display mouth-watering desserts and fruits on a dessert station or on a console next by the dinner table. Seeing them all nights will tease your guests. You will need to be a little patient since two dimensions are back ordered until October 1st, 2007.
Exquisite adjustable nickel plated brass stands
Perfect as a wedding gift, the next two domed stands are an indulgence that any chic hostess will die for. Made of nickel-plated brass stands with adjustable heights, these fine etched glass pastry domes are magnificent. The diameter sizes are just right at 8.25 and 11 inches. They start at $145 USD for the small Adjustable Dessert Stand. Since they fit with my home décor, they are destined to be mine. This last comment is a clue to my immediate family :).
Decorative wood stands with glass domes
At Giani's, I found a set of three Decorative Dome Pastry Stands with black wooden stems for $52.95 USD. They look great. Since the plate diameter is only 7 inches, they work best for cheeses, fruits, cupcakes, small cakes and individual pastries. This set is cool because you can divide it in three presents. So next time you bring the dessert to a casual dinner party, slip in a pastry dome for an outstanding hostess gift. You are sure to be invited again.
The last two vintage domes display a cleaner classical look that the dome pastry stands at Giani's. If you want to own two stylish domed stands and you do not want to spend too much money, these ones are your best buy. Like I said before having two diameter sizes is a plus. Horchow sells the Short Cake Stand for $40 USD and the Tall Cake Stand for $65.
When you serve your dessert in a domed pastry stand, your table is almost done. If you are in a hurry, just by themselves they create an interesting table setting. So they are the perfect equipment for easy entertaining.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Domed Pastry Stand available at The Gardener
Buy online: Gold glass Pastry Domes available at Horchow
Buy online: Nickel-plated Dessert Stands available at Horchow
Buy online: Set of three Decorative Dome Pastry Stands available at Giani's
Buy online: Vintage Style Cake Stands available at Horchow
Categories:
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
CAKES
posted @ Monday, August 27, 2007 12:31 PM | Feedback (4)