What's New, Cupcake?

March 15, 2010
The authors of Hello, Cupcake
are back, this time with the promise of simpler recipes. Relying on doctored, store-bought cake mixes and the option of canned frostings, recipe time is used primarily for assembling and decorating cupcakes that take the form of animals, food items, and holiday-inspired scenes. The TOC may leave readers guessing recipe selections with chapter names such as “I Thought You Ordered Chocolate Moose” and “The House that Boo Built,” but the unconventional names embody the playful spirit of this title. Basic techniques, including filling cupcake liners and frosting cupcakes, are explained, and recipes are formatted into clear, easy-to-understand numbered steps accompanied by full-color photos. Kids and adults alike will find joy in the many artful creations, including a “pizza” supported by cupcakes and topped with fruit “pepperoni”; a banana split with cupcakes in the form of ice cream scoops, and Chinese takeout complete with Tootsie Roll broccoli florets. This is an innovative title that doesn't hold back.

May 1, 2012

Baking purists might snub Tack and Richardson's use of store-bought mixes and canned frostings as building blocks for their creations, but there is no denying the results. Both cookbooks are inventive, clever, and perfect for beginner bakers who want to take a walk on the wild and wacky side of cake decorating.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.