What's New, Cupcake?

Did I ever tell you about the book Hello, Cupcake? It's a really cool sort of cookbook with all kinds of great ideas for cupcakes that look like everything from dogs to TV dinners. I've never actually made anything from it, but I got the authors' second book anyway...

This one is really similar, just more great ideas. What's great about these books is that you use regular household tools and candy etc. to make everything. You don't need any special cake decorating tools.

 You know I'm a sucker for things that look like food. But these are cupcakes that look like a big sandwich!!

I think these would be great for a summer barbecue.

Yarn anyone? They didn't leave out the crafters. Pretty neat, huh?

 This weekend we had Trisha & her family over, so I decided to give What's New, Cupcake a try.

I started with a bunch of candy. I took some doing, but in the end I found everything I needed.

 **Note: Don't get distracted talking to your husband when you have taffy in the microwave, just sayin'. oops

  And here's the final product, I call them Ode to Panda Express. I think they turned out pretty good, don't you? haha

I look forward to trying out another idea from one of those books. These were really fun! (I think the broccoli was the best part!)

Food Fetish

Inspired by ChickenGirl's post about Re-Ment, I had to tell you about my strange fascination with fake food and food that looks like something. I know, I'm kind of weird. But when I'm browsing Etsy and I come across stuff like this or this, I can barely keep myself from buying it all. Do you think Nick would notice if these were in his lunch, rather than the real thing. Yeah, maybe.

Anyway, on to the new book I got this weekend. I think many of you know what a fan I am of the cupcake. I love 'em. This book is just too cool for words. It's filled with pictures of the greatest cupcakes that you can make with ordinary candy & everyday stuff.

Check out the TV Dinner cupcakes. Oh my gosh. These are first on my list. I love the mash & gravy cupcake, and the peas & carrots. Isn't that hilarious?


Take a look at this cupcake vegetable garden. haha Whenever I see a patch of veg I can't help but think of my favorite gardener, Gromit. Which reminds me of another excellent book I already have on the shelf.

I got this one when we lived in the UK. Naturally, I haven't used it yet, but I really do enjoy the lovely photos.

See? There's the Were-rabbit surrounded by veg. Can you believe that's a cake?

Next week's my birthday. If I was going to be home, maybe I'd try to make this one for Nick & I. Look at little Gromit with his knitting. So cute.

Oh if I only had the time to bake all day and run around in my bare feet and an apron. Some day.