Cupcakes Steal the Show

November 25, 2008 12:20 am

My friend's recent birthday party at Lucky Strike Lanes was a unique diversion and a reminder about the growing popularity of cupcakes. I was late as usual from being tied up at the office, and thus greeted with a cold array of fatty foods that I wouldn't touch with a ten foot pole--chicken wings, greasy fries, mini-burgers and something covered in hardened cheese. No dinner for this nutrition fanatic! Resigned to the fact that my stomach growls would have to go ignored, I glanced over and noticed Nightclub aficionado Noah Teppenburg a few lanes away. Before venturing over to say hello, I was distracted by the nearby cupcake tree calling for me. Not exactly a healthy substitute for dinner but they looked so irresistible! Stacked in a beautiful triangle formation with different hued thick, creamy frosting topping each little treat, I quickly reached out for one.

The cupcake craze continues to grow as more and more birthday cakes are being replaced by their mini-counterparts. When I moved to New York City about seven years ago, a friend introduced me to Magnolia Bakery. I stood in-line with the hip West Villagers and after finally taking my first bite of the creamy sugary delight, I was convinced that the wait was well worth it. But aside from the occasional cupcake indulgence during afternoon strolls, I've noticed that cupcakes are often being served in lieu of the traditional birthday cake. One obvious attraction is the convenience, as there is no need to cut them and serve them on plates with forks. They've even been springing up at children's parties, including my young nieces' gatherings in California. Creativity flows as they are often organized in fun shapes, arrangements, and colors, allowing kids and adults alike to gleefully choose their favorites amongst chocolate, vanilla, red velvet, or other flavors with differing frostings.

The competition is fierce in the cupcake market. In addition to Magnolia Bakery made famous by Sex In The City; Buttercup Bake Shop, Baked, Sugar Sweet Sunshine, and Babycakes NYC all boast loyal clientele addicted to their moist palm sized treats. However, Chelsea's Billy's Bakery cupcakes stole the show at my friend's party. So while I resisted the high calorie dinner fare, I couldn't deny the cupcakes. After all, I had to be a good sport and celebrate such a joyous occasion. Perhaps, I didn't need to have three... but I do work hard at the gym and I deserve to splurge once in awhile, right? Well, maybe we should keep it between us!

Next time you are planning a birthday party, why not break with tradition and put your candles in cupcakes? They are simple to serve, and you can please all of your guests by offering a variety to satisfy everyone's particular sweet tooth desire. But try not to eat three!

Caroline Alexa McBride