Picture of the Day

image credit: eugeniusD80

Precision is key when working with delicate designs. This picture has inspired me because there is so much detail captured in this scene. If you direct your focus to the building you will notice how symmetrical it is. The many levels shows just how structurally sound the building is. 

Working with and decorating cupcakes can be equally challenging when it comes to design. Having ideas is one thing, but how you execute them is another. You may want to add a chocolate piece to the cupcake, but in order to do that you have to make sure the design of it will hold up.

Now direct your attention in the photograph to the landscape surrounding the beautiful building. In terms of cupcakes the landscape would be equivalent to the various types of icing, fondant, and gum paste. The consistency of your decorating mediums can make or break the overall outcome of your creation. Icing that is too runny will not hold up if, for instance, you wanted to pipe a rose as a topper. Knowing that gum paste is more stable than fondant helps you to pick the medium in which you would use cut-out shapes as designs.

Overall the photograph has inspired me to be that much more precise with decorating cupcakes and also challenges my skill level. It also makes me what to push the limit as to what kind of toppers can be created and decorated. Maybe my next task will include incorporating the silhouette of the building out of molding chocolate. Anyone with suggestions on unique designs and/or flavors for cupcakes is more than welcome to comment below. Looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks.

Why Cupcakes?

As the sister of a baking and pastries chef I've become very interested in the different types of desserts she made, especially cupcakes. Since she went to school in this area I've come to learn a lot of the techniques it takes to made a very elegant cupcake. The recipes alone are pretty simple, but when it comes to decorating the cupcake, that's when the major skills are required.

The patience it takes to execute a classy cupcake is a major factor. You need to know what you want to create and then have a plan as to how you're going to execute that plan. Depending on the types of tools that are available to you, will depend on how elegant your cupcakes will turn out. However, the more you practice your techniques the more the easier it will become to create a classy cupcake.

Knowing that there are various products out there that are at everyone's disposal better allows me to distinguish which products will set my work apart from the apprentice to the executive chef. The knowledge base of the different types of utensils, pans, and accessories also allows my work to be distinguished from other cupcake competitors.

Another essential technique used to create a masterpiece would include piping. Different piping tips and bags help you create a variety of looks and designs you desire your cupcakes to have.

My achieving points would be to inform advanced bakers that there are multiple recipes, techniques, and products available to enhance the quality and overall design of their work setting them apart or satisfying their desire to be more creative when baking cupcakes.

For all the advances bakes out there feel free to comment suggestions, questions, and ideas for new posts on this blog. Thanks for reading.