Call Me Amaesing A Niche of Tasks and Inspiration

While in NYC, a few friends and I decided to stay an extra day longer so we can explore the city (thus the "In the Heights" purchase). My one goal that week was to visit the original Magnolia Bakery on Bleeker St, right by the West Village, which was a 30 minute trek through Greenwich Village from Soho, where we did some shopping for boots (that's another story).

I really wanted to see how the workers made the signature "Magnolia Swirl" with their buttercream frosting. [demonstration]. Upon entering, you're encapsulated with this sweet aroma of baked goods integrated with sugary mixtures from the all the various frostings that they make.

Whatever cupcake that you want to purchase is to the left hand side. On a counter by front window there are about six trays of different cupcakes: chocolate, vanilla, red velvet**, etc. You grab a box and parchment paper, and snatch whatever cupcake you feel like, which for some is the one you see with the most frosting. I do highly suggest you do rationalize your decisions because you could be standing in front of all these trays for what seems to be minutes before you pick up the two you want. And then notice all the annoyed customers standing in line behind you. And these cupcakes don't come cheap. Mine were $3.00 each, but well worth it.

Vanilla cupcake with Chocolate Buttercream

Here's my Magnolia box. I kept it so I can take dimensions so I can make my own boxes if I get bored one weekend.

I heard so many good things about their red velvet cupcakes that I had to try one for myself. (picture on the right). The one on the left is a regular chocolate cupcake, which Amanda purchased. I had bought a red velvet and a "hummingbird cupcake"- which consists of crushed bananas, pineapple, coconut, and pecans, covered with a sugar cream cheese frosting. Personally, I was disappointing with the hummingbird, mostly because the frosting was too heavy.

BUT.. I had never tasted a red velvet cupcake so delicious in my life. The batter is heavily tinted red, thus turning these sweet mini treats into a royal delight. And what I love most about this cupcake is the lightness of the frosting, as much frosting they use on their cupcakes (they like to call it a "dollop"), this particular frosting is whipped to perfection, not dominating, but instead compliments, cake portion.

In conclusion, Magnolia Bakery has increased my passion to utilize my oven more. I am now on a quest to purchase their cookbook (in which the cashier told me has their buttercream recipe inside!!), as well as buy myself an electric mixer since I blew out my last one mixing cookie dough..

Even greater news: Wilton's headquarters in Woodridge has their annual Tent Sale going on in June.
"The Wilton Tent Sale, which is held in Woodridge, Illinois, is a popular event for cake decorators and crafters. This year’s Wilton Tent Sale will offer amazing deals on a wide selection of Wilton cake decorating and baking supplies as well as kitchen and paper craft products from Copco, EK Success Brands and K & Company. In addition, demonstrations of Wilton products and crafting techniques will be offered throughout the sale."

Kcaps and I already have made plans to attend this awesome event. Anyone that wants to join in on this adventure let me know!


seemed like the right time to insert this picture...