Sweet Creations

Every special occasion deserves to be celebrated, and what better way to do so than with a cake. Whether the event commemorates the arrival of a new baby, a new year or a new life together, a cake will add that unique touch of distinction. With flowing bows and blossoming flowers, along with many decoration these sweet creations are true works of art.

In a variety of extraordinary shapes, colors and patterns, --from dresses to hats and books to gift boxes—these delectable desserts can be tailor-made to suit any and all occasions. And the best thing about them is that they just as good as they look. So make sure to top off your next memorable affair with an exquisite cake!

So what makes these cakes so incredible? The decoration, of course. Usually the client will give the professional baker an idea to work with. Inspiration can come from clothes, lace, invitations, nature, etc. The cakes can generally be made in any size or shape – from one to five layers to motorcycles, maps and teapots – always matching the theme of the event. All of the decorations are hand made with fondant, a dough-like substance that stretches allows the baker to create different shapes without sticking.

Although some of the decorations such as ruffles, flowers and bows look real, they can be eaten; in fact, almost everything on these cakes is edible. It normally takes about three to four days to make a cake, but the elaborate and more detailed decorations take about one week. For a simple cake you should consult a baker one to two weeks in advance and for a more extravagant cake one month in advance. The cost ranges anywhere from $1 - $8 per person depending on the amount of detailed work.

Currently, the most popular designs are the gift boxes delicately wrapped in bows, the trendy tobaccos, and cakes in the shape of men’s shirts. If baking is your specialty and you’re up to the challenge, here is an icing recipe so you can start making your own sweet creations.

Combine gelatin and cold water, let stand until thick. Place gelatin mixture on top of double boiler and heat until dissolved. Add glucose and glycerin, mix well. Stir in shortening and just before it is completely melted, remove from heat, add flavoring and color. Mixture should cool until lukewarm. Next, place one pound of confectioners’ sugar in a bowl and mix well. Pour the lukewarm gelatin mixture into the well and stir with a wooden spoon, mixing in sugar and adding more, a little at a time, until thickness disappears. Knead in remaining sugar. Knead until the fondant is soft, and more sugar, if to stiff, add water (a drop at a time). Use fondant immediately or store in an airtight container side refrigerator. When ready to use, bring to room temperature and knead again until soft. This recipe yields enough to cover a 10 by 4 inch high cake.