Pots and Pans
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
IN ANY soiree or gathering, it is inevitable that the presence of a cake or cakes would make a grand entrance. It is like the “cherry” on top of a whipped-cream covered dessert.
An event would not be complete without the cake which always would absolutely require a prominent space or corner in the venue. And it always highlights the party, be it a wedding, birthday, baptismal, shower, blessing and much more.
A beautifully crafted cake would draw so much attention that it seems that everyone should have a picture of it or with it, especially to the “art” lovers.
With the growing artistic trends of fondant, the cake can be made into practically anything! From landscapes, to seascapes, or even to outer space themes. From luggage to make-up paraphernalia to buildings. The possibilities are just endless.
But is it worth every penny for a lavish cake that most often are made out of “styrofore” so as to achieve the “look” the client desires? What happens next after the affair? Can it be “eaten” and shared with the guests? Just a thought.
But of course, it would be dumb-founding to see such beautiful creations go to waste, unless they are made of “real, edible” ingredients like rice crispies so as to attain the look.
Guess it doesn’t bother people who can truly afford such luxury. But then again, I am just trying to be a sensible consumer. Which bring me to the next alternative: Cupcakes.
This might not be unfamiliar or outlandish to a lot since this have been a practice for so long a time. It started with children parties or kids themed gathering and eventually evolved to the more sophisticated adult parties and activities.
Just like any cakes, cupcakes can be made with almost any possible recipes there is, whether it is a moistchocolate cake recipe, a pound cake, butter cake, fruit and nuts-laden cake, to even “nut-bread” type like those used for dessert loaves.
With those said, we also have to mention the savory (meaning, not sweet) type of cupcakes or muffins, which is perfect for an early morning wedding or mañanita. And of course, they blend very well with hot chocolate, coffee, tea or juices.
But the question is what type of frosting or icing should be used?
Common to our knowledge, boiled icing is the favorite although whipped cream would be nice but because of the weather, we tend to shy away from it. Buttercream is also another deterrent because it melts in the hot weather.
So what do we have left now? Fondant or sugar paste, of course! This sweet confection is so versatile that once again, is most people’s pick in “beautifying” the cupcakes so as to come up with the theme and motif of the occasion they prefer.
Personally, I would want the “heavier” type of cupcake used in conjunction with fondant. Why? Because it blends better without also “overpowering” the flavors and unlike chiffon types which can possibly sink because of the weight of the fondant, unless they are just used to decorate and not cover.
Another technique is to cover it thinly, but care has to be taken to prevent breaking.
With fondant gaining popularity, it is not surprising to see really beautiful hand-crafted creations on top (or even whole) of the cupcake. However, unlike boiled icing, can anyone really manage to eat the entire décor on the cupcake? Or would they also be thrown away?
Another fad is using cupcakes and arranging them in such a way that the “purposely” theme is also achieved. Like for instance, initials of names or even signs is placed flat or a bit slanted on the table. With a bit more imagination, the desired subject can be “constructed” (example, with the use of wires) and the cupcakes covering entirely the “stand.”
This, I think is more challenging, needs careful planning and time consuming. But I am pretty sure that once the party is over, all cupcakes should be gone, too. Which would definitely leave you with only the cupcake “skeletal” structure holder. But the good thing here is that the boiled frosting can be used to its advantage!
It is really a matter of choice of who orders and who makes the cake or cupcakes. And as to what extent consumer are willing to pay to “coordinate” their themes. Besides, these occasions comes only once in a lifetime.
Whatever the occasion, enjoy the dessert before it’s gone!
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