Fender Bender Cupcake Carnage

What you see here is deliciousness...
Chocolate Guinness Cupcakes with Bailey's Irish Cream frosting (left) and Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese frosting (right). I made them in three different sizes, filled the larger ones with frosting in addition to what is seen on top. I initially saw the recipe months ago on a blog that I regularly read and had been dreaming about them and searching for a reason to make them. I had a friend's birthday come up and decided that these would perfect for the occassion! Normally I don't even think to share recipes on this, however, I have received nothing but rave reviews so I included the links above- I take no credit for the recipes, I just made what you see.

But, I will take credit for this idea below... I made a cardboard "pint glass" as a cupcake stand! Lighting was not so good in the bar, but I abhor my flash. Fellow party-goers then suggested making "pint cakes" so now I am in search of tempered pint glasses that can go in an oven, any thoughts?



Did I mention that on the way to the birthday party I got in a car accident? I spent so much time baking these cupcakes and piping the frosting, only to have them thrown about my cupcake carrier (love it) in my car. Therefore party presentation- not so good, taste- loved by all, story of their delivery- priceless.

Mini!

This is my first batch of mini-cupcakes that I have ever done! It takes a lot of careful work to fill those many little cups, but I was not let down. The frosting is a basic vanilla frosting from scratch and I learned that investing in a good vanilla extract is worth it and next time I might even try heavy whipping cream instead of just milk to thin it out and real vanilla bean. As for the piping, is does make a difference in regard to presentation! I added the dime for a little perspective on the size. Stay tuned, tonight I am making something even better!

CoCoNuTs II

First of all, a certain someone said something about the crumbs on my cake platter so I had to do a re-do of the photograph. Notice, there are two more slices gone (I had to convince a total stranger to take a piece last night and then I had another this afternoon). I am bringing this into work tomorrow to share with the faculty.





Second of all, I made it to the second item of my ambitious list, coconut chicken fingers and tangy apricot sauce.

I attempted to do a double layer for extra crispiness, but things didn't work out so well I believe because I baked these babies. So, see below I have my preparation line....




And, the final product!




Third of all, I will make strong attempts at making my Alice in Wonderland sugar cookies this week, but the rest of my night is dedicated to grading homework, classwork, and projects!

CocoNuts

Vanilla Cake (out of a box) + Vanilla Icing (from scratch) + Angel Coconut Flakes = a pretty good cake, if I say so myself, I just wish I had someone to share it with!