Strawberry Cupcakes

There’s something about a strawberry cupcake that takes me straight back to childhood.  Strawberry cake, along with big swirly lollipops, bubbles, candy buttons (anyone else?), and crayons.  While the others are a given, I’m not sure why strawberry cake does it for me.  I don’t even remember eating a strawberry cake when I was little.  It doesn’t sound like something my mom would make me.  And forget that pink instant cake box.  While I would clearly eat it, I’m sure my mom wouldn’t lay a finger on it.  

For my roommate’s birthday this year, I took a shot at strawberry cupcakes.  My roommate also loves strawberry cake.  To be honest, who wouldn’t like it? Especially these cupcakes studded with actual strawberries rather than flavoring or syrup or food coloring.  The raw cake batter was delicious.  I almost didn't want to bake them. 

Also, are pink things usually more delicious?  I’m not that girl that likes everything pink, but I think since cupcakes are already cute, pink just seals the deal.  Maybe cupcakes were made to be pink.  Maybe all the pink is part of the reason these cupcakes take me back to when I was a little girl.  Oh, you suggest a heart shaped strawberry on top? Oh what a good idea!

They were perhaps the girliest thing I have ever made, for a not so girly friend, and by a not so girly me, but luckily they were awesome. I think even the manliest of men would enjoy a little strawberry cupcake with pink frosting and a heart garnish!

Make them! And prepare to let your inner child out to play!  Maybe keep some crayolas nearby...

A Late Halloween Post

Halloween is probably that one holiday that is only about fun.  There isn't any stress to create some huge meal for your 30+ people family or to buy and wrap a dozen presents.  The only real traditions are carving a giant squash and eating a crazy amount of candy and not feeling bad about it..... both of which I did.  I discovered this year that I'm obsessed with candy corn. I bought three 1 lb bags on November 1 just to get me through the fall.

Although it's been a while since Halloween, I thought I'd share all the festive and delicious items of my holiday.
Mine was complete with baked brie, mummy cupcakes, hot cider, and a lovely care package! Also, jello shots were included, but let's not discuss those.

 

The baked brie was made with homemade puff pastry and a layer of raspberry preserves.  Look at those flakes and that oozing cheese!  Is there anything more delicious than baked brie?

 

 

 

Cute right?  These little living dead treats are pumpkin cupcakes with cream cheese frosting.  We decorated them using a pastry bag with the flat line tip to make the mummy wrap.

 

 Fire burn and cauldron bubble! My friend made a Spiced Rum Apple Cider (in my wok, not my cauldron).  Gargantuan cinnamon sticks are completely necessary.

 

My mom sent me a Halloween care package!  It's her tradition.  This year I lucked out with decorative paper plates and napkins, a couple Halloween dish towels, a basting brush (I've been needing one of these!), See's candy (score!), and CANDY CORN!

Hope your Halloween was happy too!