The Cupcake Cauldron

Sweet Patrick

2011-03-29T08:57:00.005-04:00

Sometimes there are those news stories that just hit you straight in the heart. For me, animals are precious creatures that deserve nothing but love and respect. I am a member of the ASPCA, worked with animals at a veterinary hospital, and I donate as often as I can when animals are in need (National Wildlife Federation, local animal shelters, rescue organizations, etc). You may be asking who this sweet pup is, his name is Patrick. He was found in a garbage chute on March 16th in Newark, NJ. Starved, with no body temperature, he was rushed to Garden State Vet Specialists in Tinton Falls, NJ. He was named Patrick because it was miracle he made it through the night, hence named after St. Patrick on March 17th. It's a blessing this sweet boy made it.

You may be asking what this has to do with cupcakes. Well, there is a special twist that I wanted to share with everyone. I know I blog about them a lot, but they are just an awesome cupcake shop! Sweet Avenue Bake Shop, a vegan cupcake shop in Rutherford NJ, was selling red velvet cupcakes last week to help support Patrick. For every red velvet sold, they donated $1 to him. They raised $701 dollars in just 1 week with online sales and walk ins. Even though the fundraiser has officially stopped, they still have dog cookies available. All proceeds go directly to helping Patrick!

Just look at that face! I love this dog so much!

To make a donation to Patrick and his friends in need:

Associate Humane Societies

Ghost Adventure cupcakes

2011-03-25T14:13:00.004-04:00

For my Birthday, my husband had these custom printed cupcakes made for me from Sweet Avenue Bake Shop in Rutherford, NJ. They were 100% vegan and absolutely delicious! Vanilla cake, vanilla frosting, topped with my favorite show, Ghost Adventures from The Travel Channel. I am a huge ghost geek and every Friday night I tune in to see what Zak, Nick and Aaron have discovered while ghost hunting!

Check out other custom cupcakes Sweet Ave has been up to: Custom cupcakes!

New Direction for The Cupcake Cauldron!

2011-03-24T14:29:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone,

So, I am taking a little break from cupcake orders for awhile. It was becoming a little more work then play and I rather just stick to it as a hobby for now. The Cupcake Cauldron is going to take a new direction soon. I will continue to review different bakeries, cupcakes and update you on my latest finds during my travels. I look forward to sharing recipes and posting pics of my work! And or course, I love hearing from you!

Sincerely,

Ashley

Rule #32 of Zombieland: Enjoy the little things.

2011-03-21T10:50:00.003-04:00

I recently created these cupcakes for my best friend. Zombies and cupcakes?? What could be better?!

I made a vanilla butter cake and topped it with my Hershey cocoa frosting. So delicious. On top I food processed Famous Chocolate Wafers for "dirt". For the blood I used Wilton's red gel tubes.

Here is a photograph of the happy recipient!

Top O' The Morning To You!

2011-03-17T10:39:00.002-04:00

Hope everyone has a wonderful St. Patrick's Day!

As a treat, here is a delicious Soda Bread recipe!

Enjoy!

Disney Vacation 2011!

2011-01-28T12:53:00.009-05:00

It's about that time for me to pack my bags and head to my favorite place in the whole world...Disney! This year, I will be celebrating Valentine's Day with my hubby and my pup Linus in Florida. So excited! This winter has been brutual in NJ!

I have started my cupcake research for the trip and expect to have many reviews of the new

cupcakes Disney has to offer. Here are just a few things I intend on checking out.

1. NYC Babycakes cupcakes NOW in Downtown Disney! I love a killer vegan cupcake and I have been trying to get a taste of these for awhile!

2. Mini cupcakes at Hollywood Studios and Downtown Disney! This I can not WAIT to try! A pack of 6 mini gourmet cupcakes. Flavors are: strawberry

cake with vanilla frosting, red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, carrot cake with cream cheese frosting, yellow cake with red frosting, yellow cake with chocolate frosting, & chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. Here is a greatphotograph from Disney Food Blogs.

3. Karamell Kuche is the new caramel inspired kitchen in the Germany pavilion at Epcot Center. I've gotten word they have chocolate and caramel drizzled cupcakes that are to die for. I am very excited to try them and report back!

4. Since it will be Valentine's Day, I will be checking in to some of my favorite bakery locations to see if they have any special for the holiday. The journey will include: Main Street Bakery at the Magic Kingdom, The Boardwalk Bakery at the Boardwalk Inn, Goofy's Candy Co at Downtown Disney and Starring Rolls Cafe at Hollywood Studios.

Wow! Overwhelming Cupcake Orders 2010!

2010-12-14T13:56:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone,

Thanks so much for showing so much interest in The Cupcake Cauldron!

The following dates are now booked for cupcakes!

Saturday, December 18th

Thursday, December 23rd

Friday, Christmas Eve

Christmas Day is completely booked!

Still availability for New Years Eve!

Holiday Flavors!

2010-12-06T14:48:00.005-05:00

My Holiday flavors are now available under "Seasonal"! Please give atleast 1 weeks notice for orders. Availability is running out!

Don't forget about my delicious Red Velvet cupcakes, made internet famous by Cupcakes Take the Cake in 2009! Contact me today for your orders!

What about your little pup? Want to get em something nutritious and fun?! I am taking orders for holiday dog treats! Cut in cute holiday shapes! Even gift wrapped and ready! Can come dipped in melted carob and sprinkled with seasonal colors!

Cupcake Wars is back!

2010-12-06T14:24:00.002-05:00

After it’s first season, Cupcake Wars is returning this December to Food Network for a brand new second season. Tune in tomorrow for the premier episode, Tree Lighting!

Also, there is a fun partnership between the show and the Cupcake Corner Facebook game that I thought you might enjoy. I am strangely addicted to the game! You can make dozen of Cupcake War cupcakes! Check it out!

Life is Delicious!

2010-11-10T12:22:00.006-05:00

For those of you that grew up in the 80's, you will remember this cutie! Strawberry Shortcake and her adorable kitty cat Custard, turn 30 years old today!

Happy Birthday, Strawberry Shortcake!

To celebrate, try this delicious recipe from Martha!

ENJOY!

Feliz día de los muertos !

2010-11-02T09:36:00.005-04:00

Day of the Dead (Spanish: Día de los Muertos) is a holiday celebrated by many in Mexico and by some Mexican Americansliving in the United States and Canada. The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died. The celebration occurs on November 2 in connection with the Catholic holidays ofAll Saints' Day (November 1) and All Souls' Day (November 2). Traditions connected with the holiday include building private altars honoring the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed and visiting graves with these as gifts.

Halloween week!!!

2010-10-25T09:11:00.005-04:00

It is finally here! The week I look forward to all year round! Halloween is this weekend and I have a whole lot of baking to do before the week is complete!

Speaking of Halloween treats, check out this sweet article about me on All Things Cupcake!

Disney Halloween Cupcakes!

2010-10-19T09:56:00.004-04:00

Some might remember that I blogged about my 2009 Halloween experience at Walt Disney World. I was pretty happy to see so many varieties of Halloween cupcakes to choose from. The photograph below was taken at the Main Street Bakery at the Magic Kingdom. Remember my review of the black sugar frosting dying my teeth for the remainder of the morning? Embarrassing, but tasty!

As many of you know already, I am a pretty big Disney fan. I vacation there atleast 1-2 times a year. It's my favorite place since I was a child. I stay pretty well informed on what is going on, so I was very excited to hear that Disney has another line of Halloween cupcakes for this years, "Not So Scary" event! Ghost cupcakes are just 1 of the adorable cupcakes to choose from! If you happen to visit, please send me a review! I would love to hear all about it!

Cake Pops Book Tour!

2010-10-18T13:49:00.005-04:00

I'm like a kid in a candy shop! I'm so excited I can barely contain myself! I can't wait! Bakerella is making her way to NJt! Join me on November 13th at her Cake Pop Book Tour signing at The Mall at Short Hills!

All photos from Bakerella

Dessert First With Anne Thornton

2010-10-14T10:46:00.004-04:00

The geniuses at Food Network will be airing a new show called Dessert First With Anne Thornton. This new show will premier on Sunday, 10/24! First episode will be entitled, "Scary Sweet"! You know me, I love anything Halloween related! So, I was very excited to be asked back to do a conference call interview with the new host!

Here is a little press release about the show:

Sundays at 12pm ET/PT on Food Network (premieres 10/24)In her “In the Kitchen” Food Network cooking series, Dessert First with Anne Thornton, expert pastry chef Anne Thornton shares indulgent recipes for tantalizing and tasty sweet treats. From fresh pie crust and creamy ice cream cake to flaky pastries and make-ahead tarts, Anne demystifies and simplifies the sweet world of pastry and dessert. While sprucing up old-fashioned favorites like apple turnovers and pecan pie, Anne teaches viewers the keys to no-fear baking proving any home cook can create show-stopping desserts. Whether she’s planning a dinner party for friends or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, Anne always thinks about Dessert First.

Now, you can imagine how excited I was when I saw these Red Velvet Brain Cupcakes! Make sure you tune in to see how Anne whips up these adorable and creepy treats!

Fantastic Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookies!

2010-10-06T10:48:00.003-04:00

During the month of October I love adding Reese's Pieces to just about any recipe. To me, they scream Halloween! One of my all time favorite recipes to do that with is my peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie recipe. This is the fool proof, always delicious cookie recipe I turn to!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1/2 cup chunky or smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
1 egg
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 T vanilla extract
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup of Reese's Pieces (optional)

Cream the butter, peanut butter and sugars until light. Add the egg and mix until fluffy. Add vanilla.
Blend the flour, baking powder, soda and salt together well. Add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Add the chocolate chips.
Drop cookie dough onto lightly greased baking sheets. (I normally use a floured tablespoon)
Bake for 10-12 minutes at 375°.
My extra tip is leave your cookies on the baking sheets for an additional 2 minutes after taking out of oven. They settle nicely.

Halloween, Martha Style

2010-09-30T09:48:00.009-04:00

Have you seen how adorable Martha Stewart's Halloween cupcake items are? I just love her! Every year her merchandise just gets better and better. She is the Queen of Halloween for sure!

She has just some of the best ideas and recipes.

For Martha Stewart Recipes:

http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/halloween-cakes-and-dessert-recipes

For Martha Stewart Costume Ideas:

http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/homemade-kids-halloween-costumes

Decorations and Crafts:

http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/halloween-decorating

Gorgeous Carved Pumpkin Ideas:

http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/pumpkins

(My inspiration for my Cat pumpkin below)

And don't forget....

Party Ideas:

http://www.marthastewart.com/halloween-kids-activities

ENJOY!

Sweet!

2010-09-29T13:46:00.004-04:00

I am counting down the days for the Food Network, Food and Wine festival event Sweet! Hosted by Duff Goldman & Sandra Lee, this awesome evening party will take place at la.venue in NYC. This event will showcase over 12 different pastry chefs, including endless amounts of Godiva chocolate! YUM! I am pretty excited that I scored 2 free tickets for this event!

A blurb from the website:

Tonight is all about free-flowing Champagne in your complimentary Spiegelau flute and the goodies you’ll pair it with: handmade chocolates, cream-filled puffs crammed with silky custard, to-die-for cupcakes slathered with miles of frosting, not to mention layered tortes jammed with liqueur-laced jellies, ice-cream so rich you’ll cry from happiness, and even rare cheeses crafted by artisans. Start your diet today if you must, but leave room for dessert!

Participating Restaurants and Chefs:

Adour: Sandro Micheli www.adour-stregis.com
BabyCakes NYC: Erin McKenna www.babycakesnyc.com
baked: Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito www.bakednyc.com
Billy's Bakery www.billysbakerynyc.com
China Grill Management Catering: Alfredo Guaman www.chinagrillmgt.com
Daniel: Dominique Ansel www.danielnyc.com
Del Posto: Brooks Headley www.delpostonyc.com
eater.com Contest Winner: Jessica Mogardo www.eater.com
Eighty One: John Miele www.81nyc.com
Fishtail by David Burke: Jennifer Domanski www.fishtaildb.com
Godiva: David Funaro www.godiva.com
Gotham Bar & Grill: Deborah Racicot www.gothambarandgrill.com
Hotel Griffou: Anne Thornton
Jean Georges: Johnny Iuzzini www.jean-georges.com
Levain Bakery: Pamela Weekes and Connie McDonald www.levainbakery.com
Locanda Verde: Karen DeMasco www.thegreenwichhotel.com
MAD MAC: Florian Bellanger and Ludovic Augendre www.madmacnyc.com
more: Patty Rothman www.morecupcakes.com
Park Avenue Autumn: Richard Leach www.parkavenyc.com
Ron Ben-Israel Cakes: Ron Ben-Israel www.weddingcakes.com
“Rose's Heavenly Cakes”: Rose Levy Beranbaum and Jean-Francois Bonnetwww.realbakingwithrose.com
Rouge Tomate: James Distefano www.rougetomatenyc.com
Spigolo: Heather Fratangelo and Jen Kim
Sweetiepie: Humberto Guallpa www.sweetiepierestaurant.com
Telepan: Bill Telepan and Larissa Raphael www.telepan-ny.com
The North Fork Table & Inn: Claudia Fleming www.northforktableandinn.com
The Oak Room: Matthew O'Haver www.oakroomny.com
The Sea Grill: Michael Gabriel www.patinagroup.com
The Stanton Social: Jaime Sudberg www.thestantonsocial.com
Tisserie: Gustavo Agudelo www.tisserie.com
‘wichcraft: Sisha Ortúzar www.wichcraftnyc.com
Duncan Hines www.duncanhines.com

Just Say "Yes"!

2010-09-27T14:44:00.005-04:00

My best friend of 29 years recently became engaged. For her engagement party I created this beautiful cupcake tower. 6-7 dozen cupcakes were decorated in shades of purple for this wonderful event.

The cupcake flavors were:

Traditional White Cake made with White Chocolate Pudding frosted with Strawberry Buttercream.
Super Moist Chocolate Cake with a Chocolate Fudge Frosting
Vanilla Bean Cake with Butter Vanilla Frosting.

The cupcakes were decorated with gorgeous wrappers by Cupcake Wrapture. There were separate shades of purple which worked beautifully with the decor of the engagement party. I created cupcake toppers to add a more personal touch.

Everyday is Halloween

2010-09-23T08:24:00.009-04:00

Happy 1st day of Fall everyone, which means Halloween is right around the corner!!! Enjoy everything this wonderful season has to offer!

Here is one of my favorite Fall recipes.
Wonderful treat on a chilly Sunday afternoon.

Pumpkin Pie Bars

1-1/3 cups Flour

3/4 cup Granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) cold butter or margarine

1 cup Old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats, uncooked

1/2 cup chopped Pecans

1 pkg. (8 oz.) Cream Cheese, softened

3 Eggs

1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin

2 Tbsp. Pumpkin pie spice
1 Tbsp. Cinnamon

HEAT oven to 350°F. Line 13x9-inch pan with foil, with ends of foil extending over sides; grease foil. Mix flour, 1/4 granulated sugar and brown sugar in medium bowl; cut in butter with pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in oats and nuts.

RESERVE 1 cup oat mixture; press remaining onto bottom of prepared pan. Bake 15 min. Beat cream cheese, remaining sugar, eggs, pumpkin and spice with mixer until well blended. Pour over crust; sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture and cinnamon.

BAKE 25 min.; cool 10 min. I normally let them cool completely, still them in the fridge to firm up, then cut. This is not a recipe you can immediately serve.

Calling the undead!

2010-09-21T09:02:00.006-04:00

Dearest undead of the TriState area,

Yours truly will be a vendor at this years Asbury Park Zombie Walk. I will be baking up hundreds of delicious, zombie themed cupcakes for your consumption!

Please come out and help NJ get in the Guinness Book of World Records for largest Zombie Walk, while eating delicious cupcakes!

ZombieCon will open up at 11AM inside the Convention Center.

The walk will begin at 5PM.

See you there!

Dying for some peanut butter?

2010-09-16T20:16:00.004-04:00

I made this frightfully sinful cupcake from Hershey's unsweetened cocoa & Reese's peanut butter cups. Devil's food cake, baked with a mini peanut butter cup inside. Frosted with my delicious & super smooth peanut butter frosting! Topped with mini chocolate and peanut butter chips.

It's soooooo good it's scary!!!

Available now until October 31st!

Halloween Cupcake Fun

2010-09-10T10:47:00.005-04:00

So my favorite season is approaching, which means Halloween is right around the corner! I intend on bringing you lots of fun Halloween recipe ideas each week through the months of September and October. Some will be mine and some will be from celebrity chefs and friends.

Ghost Cupcakes by Martha Stewart is first! Don't you just love Martha! She is amazing!

All-purpose flour, for tins
Devil's Food Cake Batter
Thick Ghostly Chocolate Frosting
18 large marshmallows, halved lengthwise
72 ounces white fondant
Cornstarch, for surface
24 chocolate-candy-coated sunflower seeds, for eyes
Royal Icing and Fleurs-de-lis, optional

Directions

Preheat oven to 350. Line 12 cups of a jumbo-muffin tin (each 1-cup capacity) with extra-large cupcake liners. Butter and flour 12 cups of a mini-muffin tin, and tap out excess flour.
Divide batter among muffin tins, filling each cup 1/2 full. Bake, rotating tins halfway through, until testers inserted in centers come out clean, 8 to 9 minutes for mini cupcakes, and 40 to 45 minutes for large cupcakes. Let cool in pans on wire racks. (Cupcakes can be wrapped in plastic, and frozen for up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature before frosting.)
Remove cupcake liners from large cupcakes, trim tops of each cupcake to create a flat surface, and reserve tops for another use. Flip cupcakes over. Spread 1 teaspoon frosting on top of each cupcake. Arrange 3 marshmallow halves on top of each (pictured right), cut sides down, pressing them into frosting. Spread 1 teaspoon frosting over each marshmallow trio.
Trim tops of each mini cupcake to create a flat surface, and reserve tops for another use. Press 1 mini cupcake, cut side down, onto frosting-topped marshmallows.
Spread 1/4 cup frosting over each cupcake stack to create a crumb coat, leaving a 1/4-inch unfrosted rim around bottom. Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
Divide fondant into 12 equal pieces. On a surface lightly dusted with cornstarch, roll a piece of fondant into a 1/4-inch-thick, 10-inch-wide circle. Center fondant over top of 1 frosted cupcake, smoothing downward and creating ruffles around the bottom. Press candy-coated seeds into soft fondant for eyes, remove, dot with royal icing to secure if desired, and then press seeds into icing. Repeat with remaining fondant, cupcakes, and seeds. Let fondant harden slightly at room temperature before serving.

Read more at Marthastewart.com: Ghost Cupcakes Recipe - MarthaStewart.com

Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn!

2010-08-26T09:00:00.004-04:00

Stores are starting to put up their Halloween displays...which means, Halloween cupcake time!!!

Here is a list of just SOME of the flavors I will be offering this Halloween season! Because Fall is one of the busiest seasons for me, please inquire about your Halloween cupcakes today!

Honeypot
Honey spice cake, made with cinnamon and light brown sugar! Topped with Swiss Meringue Buttercream.

The Great Pumpkin
Pumpkin Pudding Spice cake with Pumpkin and Vanilla swirl Buttercream.

Jack-O-Lantern
Sweet Vanilla cake or Chocolate cake topped with Orange colored frosting and cute 3-D Pumpkin topper! This is a colorful and delicious treat for Halloween!

Wicked Witch is Dead

Dark chocolate cake with Mint Green frosting. Topped with a Witch's hat. Inspired by the most popular Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba!

Apple Pie
Spice cake stuffed with Apple Pie filling, topped with a Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream.

The Count
Inspired by Bram Stoker, this Red Velvet cupcake is drop dead delicious! Deep, dark Red Velvet cake topped with Dark Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting. Vampire fang topping with gooey sugar blood!

All Cupcake Cauldron cupcakes can be personalized for Halloween. I have a huge selection of Halloween cupcake toppers. Bats, Vintage Halloween toppers, Pumpkins, Skulls, Witch Hats, etc.

Talking sweets with Red Velvet Stefanie!

2010-07-29T09:35:00.009-04:00

“Cupcakes aren’t just a dessert, they are a lifestyle.” -Stefanie

Film Festival Face-off was a pretty intense episode of Cupcake Wars! I originally tuned in to see Mr. Cupcakes from Clifton, NJ. Being a NJ native, I wanted to see if he had what it takes to win on Cupcake Wars!

I was pleasantly surprised to see not only Bee Sweet Cupcakes from NOLA competing, but Red Velvet Stefanie was also on this episode! Sweet! To be honest, I was cheering on RVS the whole time. I am fan of her blog and her awesome Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake at the Cheesecake factory!

So, I recently had the opportunity to talk to her about her experience on Cupcake Wars!

1. Who is your biggest inspiration in the baking world?

Candace Nelson from Sprinkle's, she started the cupcake trend! Candace is the Cupcake Queen!

2. Where did you get the name Red Velvet Stefanie from?

After Stefanie's Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake came out at the Cheesecake Factory, my friends started calling me this! They would introduce me to people as the, "Stefanie, as in Stefanie's Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake Stefanie" and then, shortened down to Red Velvet Stefanie! the other was such a mouthful! lol

3. What was the most challenging part of the competition for you? The time limit? the 1,000 cupcakes?

Waiting to hear what Candace was going to say about my cupcakes, she is my hero after all!

4. Would you ever compete in something like Cupcake Wars again?

OH YES! My next competition is actually August 22nd in LA. The Sweet's Truck asked me to compete with LA's top cupcake baker's to find the best Red Velvet Cupcake in Los Angeles! I am so going to win!

5. What is your favorite cupcake flavor, and why?

I wish I had a more exciting answer but, Red Velvet is truly my favorite Red Velvet Cupcake! I have never liked chocolate cake so, I like the little accent of cocoa in red velvet plus, cream cheese frosting is to die for! I love the bright red color of the cake paired with the light fluffy frosting, it is such an elegant combination!

Thanks Red Velvet Stefanie for taking the time to answer some questions!!!

Also, tomorrow is Cheesecake Day! The Cheesecake Factory has a pretty awesome deal for you. Any cheesecake slice is 1/2 price! So get on over and get yourself a luscious slice of red velvet cheesecake! And additional 25 cents is donated to Feeding America every time you purchase it!

Dog Birthday Parties!

2010-07-27T14:29:00.010-04:00

Wanna get your pup something truly special this Birthday?

I am now offering dog cupcakes & cakes made of all organic, all natural ingredients. Only wholesome goodness for your best friend! All pupcakes are frosted with melted carob "frosting" too!

*(Please let me know if your dog has any allergies at the time of ordering).*

Having some pups over to celebrate? Need some goodie bags? I now make all natural dog biscuits, which will come in clear baggies and tied with pretty bows! List of ingredients are always supplied! Seasonal cookie cutters available too! Pumpkin, Apple & Molasses are just a few flavors to choose from!

Pricing

Pupcakes - 1 dozen regular $40.00
Pupcakes - 2 dozen minis $40.00

Personalized Pupcake - 8" round cake $35.00

Dog treat baggies w/ bow - Inquire about pricing. Minimal amount required.

*Cute Boston Terrier not included* - That is my pup Linus!

2010-07-27T09:56:00.004-04:00

Summer is flying by! Remember, just a few more weeks of these special seasonal flavors! My fall flavors will be debuting the second week of September!

Remember, you can inquire about season Fall flavors NOW for your special occasion! Dates are booking fast! Email me at thecupcakecauldron@gmail.com!

Humming Bird Cupcakes
These cupcakes are delicious! Made with ripe bananas, fresh pineapple, vanilla bean, cinnamon and pecans! Topped with a silky vanilla bean cream cheese frosting and topped with dried bananas.

Cotton Candy
Vanilla cake topped with a delicious pink Cotton Candy buttercream.

Pink Lemonade
Lemon pudding cake, made with lots of zest and fresh lemons! Topped with a tart pink lemonade buttercream. Each dolled up with sugar sprinkles and a cute straw!

Root beer Float
My delicious root beer cake made with A&W root beer, is topped with a vanilla whipped buttercream. Root beer drizzle is on top!

Ice Cream Sundae
Hershey's syrup cake with Vanilla Bean frosting. Topping off this Sundae is a homemade ganache, sprinkles and a cherry!

Cupcake Wars auditions!

2010-07-23T13:53:00.008-04:00

Since my interview with Candace Nelson, so many people have been asking if I will be auditioning for the next season of Cupcake Wars. There is no doubt that I can bake some killer cupcakes and presentation is super important, but competition is hard for me. I really think I would fold under pressure and crawl underneath the table and cry. HAHAHA. Plus, I am not sure if I could take the hosts insulting wise cracks. I mean, he comes up with some doozies!

HOWEVER, there is a cupcake shop in my state of NJ that totally needs to be featured! This is, hands down, my favorite cupcake shop. (and I have been all over the place trying cupcakes for awhile) Sweet Avenue Bake Shop in Rutherford, NJ rocks my world! And guess what...they are 100% vegan! Don't knock it until you try it. Their red velvet can put anyone's to shame. What I totally dig about their shop is their attention to detail, their artistic point of view, their awesome taste in music and helping animals in need, and their ridiculously delicious cupcakes baked from scratch. Plus, they are super cute and always extremely nice! Side note: They also named their shop after a song by Jets to Brazil! Awesome.

So watch their audition video and write to: cupcakewarscasting@gmail.com

Birthday gift ideas!

2010-07-23T10:15:00.007-04:00

You all know that I am head over heels in love with Jessie's art work, right?! I mean, I have a bunch of original and custom works from her and if you know me, my jean jacket always has a Cuppie pin (or 2 or 3) on it!

I recently purchased this adorable cupcake tote for my friend's B-day! I filled it with lots of baking cups! Leopard print, polka dot, stripes, you name it! I also added two of my favorite ingredients for my cupcakes, vanilla bean paste by Nielsen Massey & pure butter vanilla extract. Awesome to swirl into frostings and batters. I find the vanilla bean paste to be a great alternative to vanilla beans and way less expensive!

Check out this adorable card available at the Cakespy store! This card was a big hit for the Birthday girl and it also got a lot of laughs at the party! Too cute! Perfect for that friend that loves baking just as much as we do!

Things to look forward to!

2010-07-23T10:06:00.003-04:00

I may not be baking much these days, but I haven't stopped reading my blogs ! Are you familiar with Bakerella? I came across her about 2 years ago and have been hooked since. She is a creative genius! Her book will be available in bookstores on September 8th! Pre-order that baby today! It will showcase over 40 recipes for her signature cake pops, which are perfect for any party or special occasion!

Just checking in

2010-07-12T11:16:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to check in today. I have been MIA on my blog due to a family emergency. I have all my Cupcake Wars DVRed and I need time to catch up. I also have some great cupcake finds and recipes to share with all of you. I made a cotton candy cupcake a few weeks ago that was just amazing! I will have photos up soon.

I will be checking in periodically, so if you need a cupcake order please let me know. Send an email to: thecupcakecauldron@gmail.com I will try my best to fill your order. It will be based on my availability due to my family's health issues.

All my best,

Ashley

Ace of Cakes on Cupcake Wars!

2010-06-29T10:00:00.003-04:00

I love me some Ace of Cakes! Tonight's Cupcake Wars challenge is for Duff's 100th episode celebration of Ace of Cakes! Wow, what an honor to be able to do that! I am really excited to tune into this episode!

Just curious, does anyone else find it strange that Duff is having cupcakes served at his celebration, when he talks SOOO much smack about them on his show? Just sayin!

Tune in tonight 9PM on the Food Network!

All Things Cupcake showcases my cupcakes!

2010-06-25T09:07:00.004-04:00

I just love this site! And, what's even sweeter is they showcased me again! This time taking notice of my Sea Life Friends cupcakes which helped raise money for the wildlife in the Gulf. All proceeds continue to go directly to the National Wildlife Federation to help all in need due to the disastrous oil spill! So order some up today!!!

Please take a moment to check me out on All Things Cupcake

A fresh new look!

2010-06-24T14:22:00.006-04:00

Many of you may have noticed the new look to The Cupcake Cauldron! For all of you that have contact me through email, thanks for all the compliments!

Recently, a very talented friend of mine illustrated my new banner! Chatting over our usual Thursday night fare, sushi and cupcakes, we talked about the new look for my blog. I had a vision, but needed someone to help me execute it!

So who is the artistic genius? Jon Rivera is a comic book artist from Mahwah, NJ. He is a graduate of SVA in NYC. He is also co-author of the brutally honest and hilariously funny comic book, Heartbreak! (Trust me people, all those stories are real!) He is also my BFF!

Check out his blog!

Vegan Cupcakes by Chef Chloe

2010-06-23T15:43:00.003-04:00

I had the opportunity to talk cupcakes with Cupcake Wars winner, Chloe Coscarelli! I am pretty excited to see a Vegan cupcake baker kick some butt on the Food Network! I intend on trying her Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake recipe! Looks delicious!

1. Who is your biggest inspiration in the baking world? And why did you choose cupcakes?

Candace Nelson of Sprinkles cupcakes is my biggest inspiration as a pastry entrepreneur. It was thrilling to have her enjoy my cupcakes! I love cupcakes because they are individual bites of goodness.

2. What is your secret to making vegan cupcakes delicious?
I do tons of recipe testing to make sure that I can make my cupcakes taste as good as, if not better, than traditional cupcakes. I use high quality ingredients like Valrhona cocoa, Madagascar Vanilla, and imported Italian Espresso. Oh, and coconut milk is my secret to a moist cupcake.

3. Would you ever compete in something like Cupcake Wars again?
Competitions are lots of fun, so who knows what's in store for the future!

4. What is your favorite cupcake flavor, and why?

Anything chocolate. I'm a chocoholic for sure. My favorite cupcake is probably my Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Recipe, which you can find on my blog at www.chefchloe.com. Let me know how you like it!

Vegan Wins!

2010-06-23T08:37:00.004-04:00

Vegan cupcakes can get a bad rap. Honestly, I am a huge fan of vegan cupcakes! There is a vegan cupcakery just a few towns over and I am constantly choosing them over the traditional cupcake. I have also baked vegan cupcakes before and they are so moist and delicious! Check out Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World.

Last night on Cupcake Wars the winner was a Vegan cupcake baker from L.A. Personally, I thought Chloe shined through the entire episode, but even at the end it seemed really close!

Congratulations Chef Chloe!

Match Making Party

2010-06-22T15:02:00.003-04:00

Don't forget to tune in tonight at 9PM for Cupcake Wars!

Chocolate Coke Float!

2010-06-22T09:37:00.004-04:00

Nothing screams Summer like an ice cream float on a hot day! I was completely inspired to create a cupcake version of a Coke float! I made a moist chocolate cake, and swirled a Coca-Cola buttercream frosting on top! Each was decorated with a vintage red and white stripped straw, sprinkles and a cherry! Now how cute is that?

Sweets cupcakes at The Hershey Hotel

2010-06-21T09:48:00.011-04:00

I had the pleasure of visiting Hershey, PA this past weekend! And to my surprise, it was a lot of fun! We skipped the whole amusement park thing, and spent most of our time exploring the town that Milton Hershey built, checking out the museums and stores, and of course tasting all the delicious treats Hershey, PA had to offer!

I was most excited to visit Sweets cupcakes at the famous Hershey Hotel. It was a very small shop, but adorably decorated. It had plenty of little cupcake themed gifts, cupcake cookbooks, and of course their signature cupcakes baked with Hershey ingredients.

I chose 3 "taste" sized cupcakes: smores, chocolate & peanut butter, and of course the red velvet. My favorite was the peanut butter. The smores had a graham cracker cake, which had a little too much cinnamon for my liking. The red velvet went down pretty easy too. They were super moist and delicious and very cute on presentation (which is super important to me!) I also tried one of their "classic" sized cupcakes. I chose the vanilla with pink vanilla frosting. The cake was yummy and moist and the frosting was very light.

Overall, I was pretty impressed and enjoyed what Sweets had to offer. I highly recommend it if you plan on visiting Hershey park this summer!

Something Wicked This Way Comes!

2010-06-18T22:42:00.009-04:00

Not that this would come as a surprise, but I am completely obsessed with all things Harry Potter! The films, the books, the music, the scarfs, etc!

I am super excited that today was the grand opening of Universal Studio's Harry Potter theme park! So to celebrate, I thought I would post a photograph of cupcakes I made for a party I hosted last year. It was a Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince party!

I made delicious devil's food cupcakes with ribbons of peanut butter frosting! I also made cute little fondant pumpkins for a decoration. Hedwig is standing by to make sure no one sneaks a
cupcakes before the dessert is served!

Expecto Patronum!!!

Is on her way to Chocolate Avenue!

2010-06-18T11:11:00.008-04:00

The countdown begins! In 24 hours from now I will be in Hershey, PA! I am super excited. I haven't been there since I was a child. I have no memory of it either, except for the Hershey kiss light posts!

But what I am MOST excited about is, Sweets at the Hershey Hotel! Yes, there is an exclusive cupcakery at The Hershey Hotel! I can hardly contain myself! From what I have read, there are 3 sizes available: Taste, Classic and Signature! And with the list of flavors that they offer, I think I will be selecting multiple cupcakes to "Taste"! Like, Peanut Butter on Chocolate, which is moist chocolate cake with creamy Reese's Peanut Butter cup frosting! Or, what about, Smores?! Honey graham cracker cake coated with Hershey's chocolate glaze with a toasted marshmallow topping? Is your mouth watering yet? No? Ok, there is also Chocolate Cream pie cupcakes! Chocolate cake filled with Hershey's chocolate cream pie filling and topped with whipped cream. Yum, yum, yum! My mouth is salivating!

I intend on returning with a full review of the flavors and my experience!

Have a fantastic weekend!

Good Things Come in Small Packages

2010-06-16T19:38:00.011-04:00

"Her vision to create a unique and tasty line of delectable "dollhouse size" miniature desserts has become her signature approach in this vastly growing market. By transforming traditional sweets into dainty Dollhouse treats, she created a gourmet dessert menu comprised of completely original desserts, inspired by the enchantment and nostalgia of a dollhouse."

I was able to catch up with the winner of Cupcake Wars, Lindsay Morton! Lindsay is the owner of Dollhouse Bake Shoppe in Los Angeles, CA. And after reading her menu of delicious little creations, I need to head out to LA! They are adorable works of art, packed with flavor! And she is super sweet to take some time to answer a few questions! Everything from her favorite cupcake flavor, to her inspirations...and yes, seaweed and cupcakes? Check it out!

1. Who is your biggest inspiration in the baking world?
I have more of an art background than a culinary background, so most of my inspiration actually comes from the art world, rather than the baking world. I love to bake and have been doing it my whole life, but baking is more of a chemistry, so for me, I get excited about the decorating aspect, where I get to use my treats as an artistic outlet to sculpt and design.

2. What made you choose to create adorable dollhouse size desserts?

I have always been petite, learning at an early age that good things come in small packages, so making tiny treats only seemed natural. Here in LA, a bite sized dessert alternative is very appropriate when catering to this type of clientele, who are looking for a little bite of heaven, without the guilt of indulging.

3. What do you plan on doing with your winning check?

I have huge plans of owning the biggest dollhouse in the world, so stay tuned!

4. Would you ever compete in something like Cupcake Wars again?

Absolutely!! I thrive under pressure, the whole excitement of it all is the kind of stuff I live for. It was an incredible experience and I would do it all over in a heart beat! It was really weird to see myself on TV, it is still so surreal, and I am just so thankful to have been chosen to be apart of the whole experience.

5. What is your favorite cupcake flavor, and why?

I have always had a HUGE sweet tooth! I am obsessed with cream cheese frosting, and have to stop myself from eating spoonfuls of it for breakfast. Our buttery brown sugar graham crust beneath a strawberry filled cupcake and a swirl of delish cream cheese icing on top, makes our "Strawberry Cheesecake" cupcake my fav!

She then added about her Cupcake Wars experience.
A lot of people cringe when they hear seaweed in a cupcake (like I did on the show, when I found out the secret ingredients" but I can honestly tell you, my seaweed sesame cupcake with honey cream cheese frosting is soooooo good... ya, really good! You have to try it yourself to believe it, but with the sesame, the seaweed just give a little salty kick, and paired with the sweet honey icing on top it almost tastes like a honey roasted peanut.

Thanks Lindsay! Congratulations again!

Cupcake Wars premier!

2010-06-15T22:06:00.003-04:00

Cupcake Wars just premiered on the Food Network! I cuddled up with my dog, my husband and a small cupcake from Crumbs to watch this premier. The challenge was to create cupcakes and a display for a Sea World Birthday Bash! If creating 1,000 cupcakes in 2 hours wasn't hard enough...how about adding sea salt and seaweed to your cupcakes?!

So, I am curious, what did you think? Did you like the competition? Was the judgement too harsh? What did you think about the host? I would love to hear your opinions!

Congratulations to Lindsay Morton, owner of Dollhouse Bake Shoppe! I really think you nailed it!

Sweet, Simple and Nostalgic

2010-06-15T08:29:00.012-04:00

"I continue to think of cupcakes as sort of sleek and simple and nostalgic, but the reality is, it’s a very competitive marketplace out there, and I think it’s genius for the Food Network to pick up on that, because the show is really a mirror of what’s going out there in the industry." - Candace Nelson

And, just as sweet and simple cupcakes are, so was the opportunity to talk cupcakes with Candace Nelson, judge on Cupcake Wars and owner of Sprinkles! Sweet indeed! We discussed everything from opening your own cupcake bakery, to the most disgusting cupcake she has ever eaten! We even talked about the signature Sprinkles cupcake look! She was warm and inviting to chat with. I seriously want to take her out for a cup of coffee and just talk cupcakes all day everyday!

Ever wonder where the signature Sprinkles dot came from? I sure did!

"At Sprinkles what we did, is we reinvented the cupcake. We modernized it, we made it more sophisticated, more elegant with more beautiful ingredients, and we wanted to do the same thing with the look. So, playing on the traditional with the color of the modern dot; having that element of fun, but then also making it more sophisticated and sleek."

And according to Candace, strange and unusual things are coming for the series premier of Cupcake Wars on the Food Network!

"It’s a Sea World based event, so you can imagine the contestants are working with ingredients from the sea…and I’ll leave it at that. It’s a really unlikely combination obviously, you think of cupcakes and you think vanilla and chocolate, you’re not thinking about the sea or fish or seaweed or any of those things."

I am really excited to see what crazy ingredients the contestants need to incorporate in their cupcakes! Keep checking back, I will have much more of the awesome interview with Candace throughout the week!

And don't forget, check out the series premier of Cupcake Wars tonight at 9 PM/8PM central, only on the Food Network!

Cupcake Wars Interview opportunity!

2010-06-10T09:03:00.002-04:00

Cupcake Wars is airing on Food Network Tuesday, June 15th! As part of the promotion for this new series, yours truly gets to take part in a conference call interview with none other then Candace Nelson, from Sprinkles!

Candace Nelson is the owner of the sophisticated cupcakery Sprinkles! First opened in Beverly Hills in 2005, since then her cupcakes have become widely recognized and talked about! Martha Stewart, Unwrapped, Throw Down with Bobby Flay, Regis and Kelly, William Sonoma, you name it, she has probably been showcased there! So cool!

I will have more info to come, as well as my reaction to Monday's interview.

STAY TUNED!

Disney Cupcakes, Take 3!

2010-06-09T10:09:00.004-04:00

In 2009 I spent 7 very hot days vacationing in Disney World. It was the last week of October, and it was my first time celebrating Halloween in Disney. I was super excited. I think I counted down each day for a year! Little did I know, it would be ridiculously HOT! The temp stayed between 90-98 degrees all week. It made it hard to even go out during the day. Being a Jersey native, I missed my cold Autumn weather!

BUT, I loved the decorations at the Magic Kingdom. (FYI - If you plan on seeing a ton of Halloween decorations, the ONLY place is MK or Downtown Disney.) While walking down Main Street USA, I decided to check out the Bakery, a super famous spot to stop and snack.They had Halloween cupcakes! I picked this spider cupcake because it matched my outfit that day. HAHA.

It tasted like most of the cupcakes at Disney. Nice, moist vanilla cake with a sugary frosting. BUT, that black frosting was horrible to get out of my teeth. I walked around the rest of the day frantic trying to rinse out the color! It was very unattractive smiling and having big black blobs stuck between my teeth! Not the best idea during my trip!

If you do plan on eating this cupcake, bring it back to your room. Then, immediately brush your teeth. Oh, and wear gloves, the black actually dyed my fingers!!!!

My favorite blog

2010-06-08T22:16:00.002-04:00

No day would be complete without checking out the best cupcake blog ever, Cupcakes Take the Cake! And what would be better then seeing your work blogged on their site?? This time, Spidey is showcased! Thanks Cupcakes Take the Cake! It's an honor!

Friendly neighborhood Spiderman

2010-06-08T09:49:00.003-04:00

My husband was super jealous when I packed up these cupcakes for an order. This was for a very lucky Birthday boy ordered by one of my co-workers. Vanilla bean cake topped with a buttercream frosting, decorated with a super cool Spiderman topper! This is a perfect example of how my cupcakes can be personalized to your exact liking! Just inquire when placing an order!

I am sure this Birthday boy is gonna have a super party with these cupcakes!

Cupcake Wars on The Food Network

2010-06-07T14:55:00.006-04:00

Cupcake Wars is a new competition series on The Food Network! Each week four of the country’s top cupcake bakers face off in three elimination challenges until only one decorator remains. The grand prize: $10,000 and the opportunity to showcase their cupcakes at the winning gig! Pretty cool! I am jealous!

Episode One is entitled: Sea World Birthday Bash! I wanna go!!! Look out for it, Tuesday June 15th at 9PM!

Upcoming challenges include Ace of Cakes 100th episode Anniversary Party! Wait, doesn't Duff hate cupcakes???

Tune in with me!

Cupcake spotting!

2010-06-07T09:02:00.008-04:00

Has anyone seen Shrek Forever After yet?

This is totally up The Cupcake Cauldron's alley! Not only does Rumpelstiltskin have an army of witches, but they love to dine on cupcakes!!! I believe they were even referred to as "a bunch of cupcake eating freaks!" hahah. I love me some witches and cupcakes!

Jessie Steele aprons - For Mommy and Baby!! How cute!

2010-06-04T09:06:00.007-04:00

In Sex in the City 2, we find Charlotte juggling between her insecurities, an infant, a toddler, motherhood and a braless Nanny! Ha! My favorite scene in the movie is when Charlotte is baking pink frosted cupcakes! Hello adorable Jessie Steele apron!!! I received that fantastic apron as a Birthday gift this year. So cute! I use it more for entertaining than baking. I just can't bear to get it dirty.

Besides going to Jessie Steele online, you can also order it from one of my other favorite stores, Anthropologie! It comes in Mommy and children sizes! What a perfect gift for Mommys-to-be! I just love it!

Cupcake Bake Sale - A Great Success!

2010-06-03T23:01:00.001-04:00

Supporting the National Wildlife Federation

2010-06-03T09:25:00.008-04:00

I am always baking delicious treats and bringing them into my office. In fact, I have grown pretty popular at my job because of all my baked goods, especially my cupcakes! I thought, why not bake for charity and raise some money!? So today, I brought in 2 dozen cupcakes. 1 dozen vanilla bean butter cake cupcakes with vanilla frosting and 1 dozen vanilla bean butter cupcakes with chocolate fudge frosting. Each was decorated with white and blue sprinkles and various cute wildlife illustrations.

I asked for a small donation to raise money for the National Wildlife Federation. All the money is going directly to protecting wildlife impacted by the BP oil spill disaster. And, in exchange, they get a free cupcake baked by yours truly. It's a win, win!

Vacation Cupcakes Part 2

2010-06-01T15:09:00.007-04:00

In a previous blog entry, I showcased some gorgeous cupcakes that I discovered while vacationing in Walt Disney World.

Next cupcake on the list, The

Butterfinger Cupcake from Starring Rolls Cafe at Hollywood Studios!

My husband and I always participate in the Disney Dining Plan. For 1 quick service meal, you get a beverage, an entree and a dessert! This was my dessert! Chocolate cake, fudge center, a mile high of yummy buttercream frosting, rolled in crushed Butterfingers. I ended up sharing, because it was enormous. To be honest, it would have been sensational with a nice cold cup of milk! Overall, the frosting to cake ratio was insane, but definitely worth it! Calories and all!

Next time you are in Hollywood Studios, check it out! It is also good for 1 snack on the dining plan!

ENJOY!

I have concluded...

2010-06-01T09:30:00.003-04:00

That cupcake cereal is rather unpleasant.

This morning I poured myself my morning cup of coffee and sat down to a healthy bowl of Cupcake Pebbles. Ha! The smell alone made my teeth hurt. The taste, well, it was a mixture of vanilla and butter flavoring. It was very sweet, and has already given me a small tummy ache at work.

The pebbles were cute, decorated with multi color sprinkles.

I could see children really loving this concept. I suppose, it's not made for adults anyway! I just needed to try it, since I am obsessed with all things cupcakes! I am sure my husband will finish off the box with no problem. I, on the other hand, will go back to eating my multi-grain english muffin in the morning.

Cupcake Cereal? For real?

2010-05-31T22:42:00.007-04:00

I've heard rumors about this cereal, Cupcake Pebbles by Post Cereals. I am a huge fan of Cocoa Pebbles, but this seems a bit odd. However, I was on the look out. My supermarket didn't carry it...until today. I would have NEVER bought it, but it was on sale and I just needed to see what it tasted like.

Tomorrow I will be trying this cereal with a cup of my morning coffee. I am very excited to report on it!

To be continued...

Celebrate!

2010-05-29T12:40:00.005-04:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a very happy, fun and safe Memorial Day weekend!

Enjoy!!

Sex and the City 2 weekend!!

2010-05-27T10:29:00.006-04:00

My love of cupcakes goes way back to my childhood. But, I have to admit, Sex and the City introduced me to the iconic Magnolia Bakery in NYC.

This weekend Sex in the City 2 will open in theatres! Hope everyone remembers this fantastic moment where Carrie snacks on an adorable pink frosted cupcake, while telling Miranda about the very yummy, Aidan!!

Cupcake Festival

2010-05-26T16:57:00.007-04:00

Ooooh, cupcake fest is back!

Saturday, June 26th is Sweet Avenue Bakeshop's Cupcakefest! They have some of the most delicious cupcakes around! ALL Vegan and beautifully decorated always!

This is to benefit the Passaic Animal Shelter. Please bring cat/dog supplies, food, etc.

Cupcakes and helping our furry friends in need???!! How awesome!

For more info, go to their site:
SWEET AVENUE BAKE SHOP

Cupcakes for a Cause!

2010-05-26T00:38:00.012-04:00

In an effort to raise money for The National Wildlife Federation, order my Sea Life Friends cupcakes and ALL proceeds will go to help protect wildlife impacted by the tragic BP oil spill. My delicious, baked from scratch cupcakes, will be a treat and thank you for taking the time and donating your hard earned cash to this wonderful cause.

Or, go directly to The National Wildlife Federation website and donate today!

Here is how to order:
1. Decide today that you want to donate $35.00 to The National Wildlife Federation and snack on some tasty treats made by yours truly.
2. Contact me: thecupcakecauldron@gmail.com
3. Cupcake Flavors: Chocolate with Chocolate Frosting/ Vanilla with Chocolate Frosting/ Vanilla with Vanilla Frosting/ Chocolate with Vanilla Frosting. Adorable Sea Life cupcake pick topper!
4. Advance notice necessary. Contact me for details.

Hey, did you know?

2010-05-25T22:38:00.005-04:00

My cupcakes are inspirational!

Hop on over to Bake It Pretty to see for yourself!

New Summer Flavor!

2010-05-25T19:37:00.001-04:00

Introducing my HUMMINGBIRD cupcake!

These cupcakes are delicious! Made with ripe bananas, fresh pineapple, vanilla bean, cinnamon and pecans! Topped with a silky vanilla bean cream cheese frosting and topped with dried bananas.

Summer Flavors!

2010-05-24T15:47:00.008-04:00

The Cupcake Cauldron has some delicious flavors available for your summer parties! Please place all orders 2 weeks before party date, however, I will do my best to fill all last minute orders! Seasonal flavors are $30.00 per dozen!

Now serving these summer flavors:

Humming Bird Cupcakes

These cupcakes are delicious! Made with ripe bananas, fresh pineapple, vanilla bean, cinnamon and pecans! Topped with a silky vanilla bean cream cheese frosting and topped with dried bananas.

Cotton Candy

Vanilla cake topped with a delicious pink Cotton Candy buttercream.

Pink Lemonade

Lemon pudding cake, made with lots of zest and fresh lemons! Topped with a tart pink lemonade buttercream. Each dolled up with sugar sprinkles and a cute straw!

Root beer Float

My delicious root beer cake made with A&W root beer, is topped with a vanilla whipped buttercream. Root beer drizzle is on top!

Ice Cream Sundae

Hershey's syrup cake with Vanilla Bean frosting. Topping off this Sundae is a homemade ganache, sprinkles and a cherry!

Congratulations are in order!

2010-05-11T11:38:00.002-04:00

Most of you must be wondering where I have been these days? Well, I have been under the weather, and hope to fully recover soon. There hasn't been much baking going on, nor tasting, since I haven't had much of an appetite.

I did, however, want to Congratulate Jessie from Cakespy on the Grand Opening of her new Cakespy shop in Seattle, WA! I hope to make it out there one day and see this awesome space! But for now, I will shop from her online site! CAKESPY!

Mother's Day

2010-04-23T10:47:00.003-04:00

I unfortunately will not be filling any orders this Mother's Day. Sorry for the inconvenience!

Treat your Mama right this Mother's Day!

xoxo,
Miss. Cupcake Cauldron

Cupcake on Vacation!!

2010-04-23T10:39:00.003-04:00

It seems like forever since my last post! I was happily vacationing in Central Florida for over a week. The sun was shining, the weather was gorgeous, and I had a great time playing in Walt Disney World.

This photograph is entitled, Cupcake on Vacation. I took this photograph while dining on The Boardwalk in Disney World. It pretty much sums up the whole feel of my vacation: sweet and relaxing.

This cupcake was a simple vanilla pound cake with (I think) swiss meringue. It wasn't too sweet. It was super light and silky. I purchased this cupcake at The Boardwalk Bakery. If you are planning on visiting Walt Disney World, I highly recommend their banana chocolate chip Mickey muffin, their eclair or one of these delicious cupcakes. It's definitely a place you wouldn't want to skip over!

4 days until Disney World!

2010-04-07T13:37:00.006-04:00

And I was just recently let in on a little secret...there are delicious cupcakes in Downtown Disney! How is it that I have visited Downtown Disney and never found these beautiful little creations? Well, they are hiding out in Goofy's Candy Company! Who knew?!?! Not being a huge fan of candy, I normally don't waste my time. Plus, I usually head straight to The Candy Cauldron for candy apples!

I believe a visit to both are in order this time!

Happy Easter!!

2010-04-04T13:45:00.002-04:00

Thinking ahead!

2010-03-23T11:49:00.006-04:00

While I was placing an order for a recent party I am catering, I came across these adorable gingham baking cups! I automatically thought of my Strawberry Jam cupcakes and how cute they would be in them. Or, how festive they would be for a Summer BBQ. I am all stocked up and ready to bake! When placing a future order, just let me know if you want them baked in these super cute cups!!

Easter is coming!

2010-03-22T09:56:00.004-04:00

Easter is Sunday, April 4th!

Deadline for orders is Monday, March 26th! Hurry and order today!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T11:55:00.005-04:00

xox,

Miss. Ashley

The Cupcake Cauldron

Irish Soda Cake

2010-03-14T22:34:00.012-04:00

This is one of the yummiest Irish Soda Bread recipes! I enjoy it with spreadable butter and a warm cup of tea! It's a bit sweeter than traditional Irish Soda Bread, but that is why I love it. Enjoy!

IRISH SODA CAKE

Ingredients:

* 2 cups flour

* 1 cup granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling on top

* 3 tsp baking powder

* ½ tsp. baking soda

* ½ tsp. salt

* 2 eggs

* 2 tsps. melted butter

* 1 cup buttermilk

* raisins optional (golden raisins are yummy too!)

Directions:

1. Make wet dough: mix salt, baking powder, baking soda, flour and sugar. Beat eggs lightly and add melted butter and buttermilk.

2. Mix all together.

3. Grease a cake pan (I use a round cake pan) and spoon batter in.

4. Before putting in the oven, generously sprinkle sugar on top and with a floured knife, make an X shape in the dough (allows air to release).

5. Bake at 375 degrees F for 30-35 minutes.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

I've been thinking about you...

2010-03-12T14:01:00.008-05:00

As my Disney vacation hangs in limbo, I decided to look through photographs of vacations past. I came across this wonderful picture of the first cupcake I ate during my 2009 trip to Disney. It was at the Port Orleans, Riverside bakery. This cupcake was absolutely delicious! Everything that screams BIRTHDAY CAKE! It reminded me of cake I would eat as a kid. Pillsbury from a box with frosting right out of a can. Not sure how this cupcake was made, but it sure tasted good! Super moist cake and sweet and sugary frosting! I was in heaven. Oh, cupcake from Disney World...how I miss you!!!!!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-03-08T11:38:00.010-05:00

Yours truly is turning 30 this week! To celebrate, my adorable husband threw me one of the best parties ever! Normally I make dozen of homemade cupcakes for my parties, but my husband wanted me to be catered to for this special occasion! He surprised me this is absolutely stunning cake by Pink Cake Box, in Denville, NJ.

4 dozen cupcakes, all decorated in my favorite color PURPLE! There were 3 flavors of cake. Chocolate, vanilla and...PURPLE VELVET! Super moist and delicious. Each was lightly dusted with luster dust.

*Thanks Kierra for the great close up shot of the cupcake!

Think Spring!

2010-03-04T09:31:00.009-05:00

Dear New Jersey,

Please stop snowing. I desperately need to hear the sound of birds singing in the morning. I look forward to my tulip garden in full bloom. I can't wait to decorate with bunnies and easter eggs. I want to smell the wonderful aroma of spring as I go to work in the morning. I need to feel the warmth from the sun on my face.

Most importantly, I want to decorate cupcakes with these adorable flower buds! Bake it Pretty has these sweet little buttercup flowers ready for your next spring cupcake order! Perhaps carrot cake for Easter? A tea party for Mother's Day?

Sincerely,
Miss. Cupcake Cauldron

All Things Cupcakes!

2010-02-19T09:47:00.002-05:00

I am a little delayed on informing everyone, but I was featured on the popular blog site All Things Cupcakes! Once again, it was for my fantastic Christmas cupcakes! This time, featuring the gifts I gave my co-workers! Check it out here!

St. Patrick's Day cupcakes!

2010-02-17T12:01:00.007-05:00

Guinness Stout cupcakes available for St. Patrick's Day! The cake is a heavenly mixture of cocoa and Guinness. Each cupcake is frosted with a Bailey's Irish Cream frosting. Each can be decorated with green sugar sprinkles, green jimmies, clover sprinkles or a St. Patrick's Day cupcake topper. Cupcakes are $35 a dozen.

And my heart beats so that I can hardly speak...

2010-02-11T13:23:00.009-05:00

Just a few more days until Valentine's Day. I am taking my hubby and my pup up to Vermont for a nice 4 day weekend. I am most looking forward to snuggling by the fire, taking long walks in the snowy mountains, sleigh rides and certainly relaxation!

I normally make everything from scratch, however when baking for my family or friends sometimes I am in a pinch and need to whip something up fast! Pressed for time this Valentine's Day? Want to add a little bubbly to your cupcakes, how about substituting some pink champagne instead of water to a quick box cake mix? Add a few drops of pink food coloring and you have yourself a lovely little treat! It's really simple and the cupcakes come out super light and fluffy. If you don't like a strong champagne taste, substitute half the champagne for water! It's that easy! Dress it up with some Valentine's Day sprinkles or conversation hearts and a quick buttercream. Mmmmm

Happy Valentine's Day!

Football and Puppies!

2010-02-07T12:29:00.002-05:00

I'm not much of a sports fan, but I do love Superbowl Sunday! Gathering with friends and eating lots of yummy food! What I look forward to MOST is the Puppybowl on Animal Planet. The Kitty Half-time show is the cutest thing in the world!

This year I am attending a Puppybowl party and bringing these cute cupcakes for desert. Peanut butter cake topped with a peanut butter fudge frosting! Handmade fondant footballs for decorations!

Have a great day, everyone!

National Carrot Cake Day!

2010-02-02T13:20:00.007-05:00

My love for carrots goes way back! As a child I loved them either cooked or raw. It wasn't until adulthood that I really appreciated them in baked goods!

Carrots have been used in sweet cakes since the medieval period, they were much easier to come by and were used to make sweet desserts. The popularity of carrot cake was likely revived in Britain because of rationing during the Second World War. Carrot cakes first became commonly available in restaurants in the United States in the early 1960s. They were at first a novelty item, but people liked them so much that carrot cake became standard dessert fare!!!

I didn't start to LOVE carrot cake until about 5 years ago. Now, it is up there as one of my all time favorite cakes! I prefer mine without pineapple and raisins. Walnuts are a must! I enjoy it with either cream cheese or buttercream frosting. How do you like it?

Happy National Carrot Cake Day! Now go out and get yourself a piece!

Lips Like Sugar

2010-01-31T18:15:00.003-05:00

Another Valentine's Day themed cupcake. This time I made a classic vanilla cake but added my own little touch of pudding to the mix! Super soft and delicious! I frosted this baby with an easy but delicious butter cream made of softened unsalted butter, confectioners sugar, milk and vanilla extract. No piping this time, was going for more of a homemade, classic feel.

I don't know about you, but I find pink cupcakes are pretty hard to resist!!

You make me smile with my heart.

2010-01-28T10:34:00.005-05:00

Valentine's Day is just a few weeks away and my test kitchen has been going crazy trying to develop something sweet for my hubby. Each year my husband delights me with his culinary skills, and I knock his socks off (literally) with my divine desserts!

This little cutie is a chocolate chip cookie cupcake with a sweet and salty brown sugar butter cream. Petite in size, but not in flavor. I decorated it with a tiny sugar heart for the occasion. YUM!

The Winter Chill

2010-01-08T12:51:00.006-05:00

During the cold winter months, I love to fill my home with the aroma of fresh baked cookies. I like to snuggle up under a blanket with my hubby and enjoy a few sweet treats. I have decided to put down my piping bag and cupcake liners for a few weeks and concentrate on cookies.

I recently chose to make rum balls. I swiped from the liquor cabinet my husband's favorite spiced rum...giving them a mighty nice kick!

Here is how you make them. You will need the following:

3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
6 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
3 large eggs
1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons dark rum
sanding sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350. Coat a 12-by-17-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray; set aside. Melt butter and chocolate in a small heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring occasionally.

Whisk together the five best ingredients in all the world (eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt). Stir in chocolate mixture, then fold in flour. Pour batter into prepared baking sheet. Spread evenly with a rubber spatula. Bake until top is shiny and a cake tester inserted into center comes out with some crumbs attached, about 10 minutes. Let cool completely on a wire rack. At this point mine looked pretty odd, but it tasted really nice and light.

Break up brownie into small pieces; transfer to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. I found myself breaking off pieces and putting them in my mouth, rather than the mixing bowl. Show some restraint people! With machine on low speed, pour in rum, and mix until crumbs start to come together to form a ball.

Shape into 1-inch balls (hehe), and roll in sanding sugar. I love sanding sugar...huge pieces of beautiful sugar! It's just perfect for decorating! Transfer to a baking sheet; refrigerate, uncovered, until cold, about 2 hours. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

I'm not always JUST about cupcakes!

2009-12-28T10:04:00.006-05:00

I love to bake cookies too! For Christmas, I used Martha's Cutout Cookie recipe from Martha Stewart's Cookies: The Very Best Treats to Bake and to Share (Martha Stewart Living Magazine). The recipe was flawless! I changed it just a tiny bit. I divided the dough and rolled them out between pieces of parchment paper. I placed in the fridge over night. In the morning, the dough was ready to be cut out! It worked beautifully! Perfect snowmen, perfect santa hats! Nice crisp lines! When the dough got to warm, I placed it in the fridge for a few minutes. Cold dough is the key!!!

For the royal icing, I tried Alton Brown's recipe. He has never let me down before, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to make your own royal icing! Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

3 ounces pasteurized egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions

In large bowl of stand mixer combine the egg whites and vanilla and beat until frothy. Add confectioners' sugar gradually and mix on low speed until sugar is incorporated and mixture is shiny. Turn speed up to high and beat until mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks. This should take approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Add food coloring, if desired. For immediate use, transfer icing to pastry bag or heavy duty storage bag and pipe as desired. If using storage bag, clip corner. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Birthday Red Velvets!

2009-12-22T10:53:00.009-05:00

My friend Carol's Birthday is Christmas Eve! As a gift, I made these beautiful Red Velvet cupcakes with Cream Cheese frosting. I decorated them for the season, which she just loved! Now who wouldn't want a 12 pack of these for their Birthday?! YUM!

Cupcakes Really Do Take The Cake!

2009-12-21T14:12:00.005-05:00

Today my cupcakes were showcased on Cupcakes Take the Cake! My favorite blog of all time, dedicated to cupcakes! Of course!!!

This is an absolute honor! Read my debut! Hope this is the first of many to come!

Holiday Cupcake Sampler

2009-12-20T21:52:00.005-05:00

Each year I bake for my friends and co-workers. It usually consists of a variety of cookies and brownies. This year I changed it up a bit and made a cupcake sampler. Each box of 6 cupcakes showcased my favorite Holiday flavors. I chose Egg Nog, Peppermint Mocha and my Gingerbread with Cream Cheese frosting to give as gifts! It was a super cute, extremely delicious and an absolute hit!

Holiday Orders!

2009-12-10T22:23:00.003-05:00

I am all booked up! I apologize for this inconvenience, but I can no longer take anymore cupcake orders for Christmas and Hanukkah!!

Happy Holidays!!!

Linus' Birthday cupcakes!

2009-12-01T13:39:00.023-05:00

We celebrated Linus' 1st Birthday in October!!! Our puppy is growing up so fast!!

I created carob frosted cupcakes made with apples, wheat germ and whole wheat flour just for him! He absolutely loved it, licking up every crumb! His favorite organic treat was the perfect topping!

Warmest Wishes!

2009-11-23T15:13:00.001-05:00

Holiday flavors are here!

2009-11-11T14:50:00.011-05:00

Egg Nog - Vanilla cake made with rich egg nog, cinnamon and rum extract. Topped with my silky egg nog frosting. Each decorated with a cinnamon stick. Fancy $35.00 per dozen.

Gingerbread - Gingerbread cake frosted with cream cheese frosting. Decorated with holiday sprinkles. Fancy $35.00 per dozen.

Peppermint Mocha - Rich chocolate cake, frosted with pink peppermint frosting. Candy cane garnish. (peppermint frosting can also remain white). Fancy $35.00 per dozen.

Winter Mint - White cake with a hint of peppermint. Frosted with creamy snow white frosting! Topped with edible glitter and a snowflake topper. Fancy $35.00 per dozen.

Sugar Cookie - Vanilla cake frosted with my sweet vanilla buttercream icing. Each decorated with sugary sprinkles! Very festive! Fancy $35.00 per dozen.

Red Velvet - Beautiful and bright red velvet cake frosted with cream cheese, buttercream or chocolate frosting! Each decorated with holiday sprinkles. Fancy $35.00 per dozen.

Holiday cupcake toppers are available for an additional price. Please inquire when placing your order!

Santa topper photograph courtesy of Layer Cake Shop.

Now offers cookies for a limited time!

2009-11-06T11:34:00.005-05:00

How about skipping the tasteless supermarket bakery cookies this year and order from me! During the month of December, I will be also adding holiday cookie orders to my menu! Each will be presented in one of my organic bakery boxes, tied up with holiday ribbon or rafia. Perfect for parties or gifts! 2 dozen minimum per order. Inquire today!

Available flavors:

Classic Chocolate Chip

Chewy Ginger Cookies

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip

Italian Cookies decorated with holiday sprinkles

My love for all things Cakespy!

2009-11-06T11:01:00.005-05:00

Miss. Jessie, from Cakespy, has truly done it again. This time, surprising me with a super cute anniversary gift commissioned by my husband. This adorable water color was created for our 3 year wedding anniversary. She really nailed it! There is even a Cuppie Pumpkin and a Cuppie Linus! Three Disney balloons symbolizing our 3 years of marriage. Unbelievably creative!! If you haven't already checked her out, you are fool! Go now! You will become just as addicted as I am!

Cakespy.com

Holiday Orders!

2009-11-05T13:50:00.006-05:00

The holiday season is right around the corner! Why not make a statement at your next party. Serve cupcakes! Please allow 2 weeks for ordering. This is a busy time of year. Thanksgiving orders will be taken up until November, 24th. All orders must be picked up or delivered on Wednesday, November 25th. No Thanksgiving Day deliveries. Christmas orders will be accepted until December 24th. Christmas Eve pick up and deliveries before noon only.

Stay tuned for a full list of Holiday Cupcake flavors!

Snowflake cupcake toppers courtesy of Bake It Pretty!

Something borrowed...something blue.

2009-09-25T09:24:00.011-04:00

These adorable cupcakes were made for co-worker's Bridal Shower at the office. I made a yummy vanilla cake and topped it with my delicious chocolate fudge frosting.

This is Halloween!!!

2009-09-21T09:36:00.020-04:00

It's The Cupcake Cauldron's favorite time of year and I have a fresh batch of flavors to celebrate! For a limited time, you can enjoy my Autumn and Halloween flavors.

For a limited time enjoy these festive flavors!

Honeypot
Honey spice cake, made with cinnamon and light brown sugar! Topped with Swiss Meringue Buttercream.
Gourmet $25 per dozen

The Great Pumpkin
Pumpkin Spice cake with Pumpkin and Vanilla swirl Buttercream.
Gourmet $25 per dozen

Jack-O-Lantern
Sweet Vanilla cake or Chocolate cake topped with Orange colored frosting and cute 3-D Pumpkin topper! This is a colorful and delicious treat for Halloween!
Gourmet $25 per dozen

Wicked Witch is Dead

Dark chocolate cake with Mint Green frosting. Topped with a Witch's hat. Inspired by the most popular Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba!
Gourmet $25 per dozen

Apple Pie
Spice cake stuffed with Apple Pie filling, topped with a Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream. Topped with crushed pie crust! Miss. Fancy Pants $35 per dozen

The Count
Inspired by Bram Stoker, this Red Velvet cupcake is drop dead delicious! Deep, dark Red Velvet cake topped with Dark Chocolate Frosting. Vampire fang topping!
Miss. Fancy Pants $35 per dozen

Candy Corn
Three layers of colored vanilla cake (orange, yellow and white)! Topped with my delicious Buttercream and candy corn!
Miss. Fancy Pants $35 per dozen

All Cupcake Cauldron cupcakes can be personalized for Halloween.

Rock-n-Roll Birthday Party!

2009-09-17T13:02:00.006-04:00

I was just given the honor of catering a Birthday Party for a friend of mine! She decided to hold her event at the famous, Asbury Lanes in Asbury Park, NJ! I created a cupcake tower, full of my Cherry Cola Cupcakes! Deep and delicious Red Cola Cake, was decorated with a Cherry and Cola Buttercream! The recyclable cupcake tower was simply decorated with a red on red polka dot ribbon!

A Sweet and Delicious Welcome

2009-09-15T21:23:00.004-04:00

These cupcakes were created for a customer who wanted to welcome a new employee! There was a complete welcoming message, spelled out on 24 cupcakes! These were a huge hit Super cute, and really tasty.

Need to make a statement? Why not spell it out on cupcakes?

Cute cupcake toppers by Layer Cake Shop!

2009-09-09T12:13:00.005-04:00

Just in time for Halloween! These are adorable Vintage Halloween toppers! The Cupcake Cauldron has them in stock and ready to decorate your cupcake!!

Pumpkin, Cinnamon and Nutmeg!

2009-09-08T14:33:00.013-04:00

Fall is almost here and that means delicious Autumn inspired and Halloween Cupcakes are available from yours truly! I make many different variations, so please don't hesitate to ask how I can personalize it for you!

The Cupcake Cauldron will not be filling orders from October 21-November 4th. Sorry, but it's my favorite holiday and I will be taking a much needed vacation!