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Help Your American Friends Mark July 4th In An Egg-Free Way

Mon, 20 May 2024 06:12:28 GMT

The 4th of July will be an unusually eventful day in the UK after prime minister Rishi Sunak sprung a surprise by revealing he was calling a general election . But for any American friends you have, there will always be some fireworks on that date.

While Britons work out whether to keep or change the government, our friends stateside will celebrate not actually being ruled by anyone British at all. Independence Day is a big deal, even if the sequel to the film of that name was dreadful, and if anyone loves to be patriotic and put on a big party that is bigger than anyone else’s idea of big, it’s the Americans.

Things were not always so friendly, especially back when independence happened in 1776, but nowadays, what with the ‘special relationship’ and all that, you may want to share the occasion with your UK-based American friends. Considering it’s election year across the pond too, they will also probably fancy a distraction from all that politics.

The big challenge for a party like this may be coming up with a cake suitable for the occasion. Needless to say, eggless cakes will be a great idea for anyone with dietary restrictions.

A great idea could be to decorate it in the colours of the stars and stripes. Forget all that party political red and blue and go for a bit of patriotism instead.

This could be done with coloured icing, but one great idea, posted on the Dinner then Dessert website , is to use fruit. Use slices of strawberry lined up to create those red strips, then blueberries in one corner with the vanilla-flavoured gaps between them providing the white of the ‘stars’.

This could be combined with all sorts of other traditional American food, of course, such as apple pies, hamburgers and fried chicken. No doubt you can add some themed bunting, music and drinks to create a true American feel. And because the cake will be egg-free, nobody will be left out.

A few fireworks may also be let off, although being July it will get dark late and it is a school night, even if some adults will be staying up late to watch the results start to come in (and some fanatics will be up all night).

Then again, if some folk celebrating have taken the next day off (or can drink a gallon of coffee), it may be the cake can help sustain them through the small hours of swingometers, victory speeches, resignations, and the real contest to see who out of Count Binface and Lord Buckethead can get the most votes.

Your American friends may find all this somewhat amusing, but then we can laugh at a lot of the goings-on over there as well. That’s how it is with two nations once at loggerheads but now ready to have a party together and enjoy some fantastic cakes.

Best of all, while independent nations sit back and enjoy the fact they can hire and fire their leaders, let us also enjoy the fact that Independence Day can also mean being independent of eggs.

Special Birthday Gift Ideas For Your Partner

Mon, 13 May 2024 08:46:04 GMT

Does your significant other have a birthday coming up? Then chances are you’re looking for some gift ideas to make their special day one to remember.

In that case, you’ve come to the right place as we’ve come up with this list of five gift ideas that your partner will love.

Love Heart Cake

You may have thought love heart cakes are mainly for Valentine's Day, but while they’re certainly great for the annual celebration, they also make great birthday cakes for a loved one.

Not only is a cake a delicious treat for you both to indulge in together, but the love heart shape symbolises your affection and devotion to your partner.

Heart-shaped birthday cakes are a simple but incredibly meaningful way to create cherished memories and celebrate your love in a deliciously delightful manner.

We offer customisable cakes that can include names or specific decorations to ensure your partner is left grinning from ear to ear when they see the special treat you’ve bought for them.

“Purchase” A Star

Is your partner partial to a spot of stargazing? Then buying a star in the sky can be an incredibly romantic and thoughtful gift idea that’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Imagine the delight on their face as they realise you’ve purchased a star that’s now named after them. It's a unique and meaningful gesture that goes above and beyond a material gift, reminding them of your love every time they gaze up at the stars.

Moreover, purchasing a star is a gift that keeps on giving, as they can cherish their star for years to come.

Jewellery

OK, so this one isn’t exactly reinventing the wheel, but hear us out! While a piece of jewellery might not be the most unique of gift ideas, there’s a reason this is such a popular go-to.

Presenting your partner with a beautiful necklace, bracelet or ring is a time-tested way to express your love and admiration for them. Every time they wear it, they'll be reminded of what a loving and thoughtful partner they have, making it a truly meaningful and timeless gift.

Short Getaway

If your partner prefers experiences over material items, why not book a short getaway for just the two of you?

Whether you prefer staycations in some of the UK’s most idyllic locations , or you’d prefer to hop on a plane to one of Europe’s romantic hotspots, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life to spend quality time together on your partner’s special day is a great way to ensure the spark between you both is fully ignited.

So get browsing and you should be able to find a cheap deal to spend a few days of quality time to strengthen your bond and deepen your connection.

So those are four gift ideas for your partner. If you’re looking to give them something special, opt for one of these – or all of them if you’re feeling extra generous!

What Is Eggless Baking And Why Is It Popular?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:42:18 GMT

In an age where people are taking full control of their dietary and nutritional needs, eggless baking has emerged as a popular choice among many.

But what is eggless baking (aside from the obvious) and how does it work? Here, we’ll be going over the process, the benefits and explaining why more and more are now going eggless.

What Is Eggless Baking?

So as you’ve probably guessed, this type of baking eschews the use of eggs in favour of some plant-based substitutes.

These alternatives vary depending on who’s making the recipes, but typically, eggless bakers tend to use mashed bananas, applesauce, flaxseed meal mixed with water or commercial egg replacers.

These ingredients act as binding agents, serving the same purpose as the eggs in traditional recipes, to provide moisture and structure to baked goods without the need for eggs.

The substitute chosen will typically depend on the recipe it’s being used for. For example, mashed bananas can add sweetness and moisture to cakes and muffins, while flaxseed meal mixed with water creates a gel-like consistency that’s designed to mimic the binding properties of eggs.

By experimenting with different egg substitutes and adjusting our ingredients, we can create delicious eggless treats that cater to all.

Why Eggless?

Veganism and other plant-based diets have become extremely popular over the past few years, which has played a significant role in the rise of eggless baking. While many eggless recipes may contain dairy products, they may still appeal to those who are keen to at least reduce their reliance on animal products.

For others, egg allergies can cause a range of symptoms, including skin rashes, digestive discomfort and in rare cases even anaphylaxis, which causes shortness of breath and a swollen throat.

But eggless baking isn't just beneficial for vegans and those who suffer from allergies – it's also embraced by those looking to make a health-conscious choice as well.

You see, many egg substitutes are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol , making them ideal for anyone keen to protect heart health. Moreover, some egg substitutes such as applesauce provide a natural sweetness, which can reduce the amount of added sugar required.

Then there are those who avoid eggs due to religious purposes , as certain faiths have dietary restrictions that prohibit the consumption of eggs or animal products altogether.

So you see, there are various reasons why people choose eggless baking, which is why it’s becoming such a hit.

If you’re throwing a part and you want to be as inclusive as possible, an egg-free cake may be the ideal solution. Our eggless options are healthy, taste great and provide an inclusive alternative to keep all your guests happy.

So speak to us today and we’ll cook up something delicious for your special occasion.

Checklist For The Perfect Holy Communion Party

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 08:11:37 GMT

Holy Communion are heartfelt and joyful occasions for the person making their right of passage, as well as their family and friends.

However, if you’re organising a party then this can be a stressful time as you’ll want to ensure everything is just right for this important occasion.

If you find yourself in this situation, fear not as we’re on hand with a to-do list for anyone organising a Holy Communion party. So without further ado, here’s what you’ll need to remember…

Venue

The first step to organising a party is to arrange a venue. Remember, some places may be fully booked if there are multiple parties happening on your date, so book well in advance.

If you're only having a few guests attend your party, you may choose to host it at home instead. This will help you save money and another bonus is you won't need to make your way home afterwards as you’ll already be there!

Invitations

Once you’ve got a venue arranged, next you’ll need to take care of the invitations. They should reflect the significance of this event so try to make them elegant, with religious symbols to mark the occasion.

It’s always good form to get these sent to your guests well in advance, to ensure your guests have ample time to make arrangements.

Decorations

As you get closer to the day of the party, you’ll need to sort some decorations. While decorations for a Holy Communion party will usually be understated, that’s not to say they have to be boring!

Many choose to opt for a colour scheme that uses soft pastels or white and gold, which suit the occasion nicely. Likewise, balloons, flowers and table centrepieces will also look right at home at your parry.

Cake

The cake is undoubtedly one of the most important considerations for any party. For a Holy Communion, consider a cake that is elegant and simple – as well as tasting great, of course!

We offer a range of eggless cakes here at Cake Inn. These cakes forgo the use of eggs and instead use alternatives, so opting for one of these can ensure you cater to various dietary, ethical or taste preferences.

So if you’re looking for an eggless cake then get in touch and we’d be delighted to create something magical for your Holy Communion.

Food and Beverages

Nothing ensures your guests enjoy their day like some delicious food and drink. When it comes to choosing your food, the menu can vary depending on the time of day and your personal preferences, so this is your choice really.

For the drinks, soft drinks and juices for the children will go down a treat, while the adults would no doubt appreciate a glass of champagne to make a toast!

Activities For Children

It’s no secret that children can get bored and with youngsters guaranteed to be attending a Holy Communion, you’ll need to provide some activities or entertainment to keep them stimulated.

If you’re looking to push the boat out, you could consider hiring someone to do face painting or balloon animals. Or for a more understated affair, some board games should do the trick!

So those are our main tips. Follow these and your party should go down a storm!

Five Ways To Tuck Into Easter Treats… Without Eating Eggs!

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:38:08 GMT

Easter is synonymous with eggs, from the symbolisation of birth to the thousands of chocolate goodies lining supermarket shelves. However, those who don’t eat eggs won’t have to miss out on delicious treats over the holiday, as we’ve put together a scrumptious selection of eggfree cakes and bakes to enjoy.

Vegan Simnel Cake

As well as Easter eggs, simnel cake is a traditional treat enjoyed during this spring period. It has been around since the mediaeval times, but the recipe has developed a lot since the original.

Today’s simnel cake is recognised by the 11 marzipan balls on the top of the cake, which represent the apostles, minus Judas, so anyone who is a big fan of the almond paste will enjoy scoffing each of these even on their own.

A vegan version of simnel cake uses soya milk, cider vinegar, and dairy-free butter, as well as the usual ingredients of flour, sugar, mixed spice, sultanas, mixed peel, glace cherries and plenty of marzipan.

Vegan Easter cheesecake

Veganism is not usually associated with cheesecake, but these days there are so many plant-based alternatives, making baking for different dietary needs much easier.

This delicious chocolate cheesecake uses dates, coconut oil and nuts to make the base stick together, and coconut milk, maple syrup, coconut oil, cashews and cocoa powder to create the creamy chocolate ‘cheesecake’ layers. Melted dark chocolate on the top completes the pudding.

Chocolate nests

You can’t go wrong with chocolate nests for Easter , and making them is a memory all kids should have as they grow older.

All you need is shredded wheat, chocolate, and chocolate eggs for decoration. Children always have lots of fun melting the chocolate before mixing the crushed up cereal in. They then simply needed to be spooned into cupcake cakes and topped with some mini chocolate eggs before chilling in the fridge.

Vegan chocolate cake

There aren’t many vegan chocolate cakes, and the recipes that are available can often go wrong in practice, which is why lots of people prefer to get their cakes professionally baked for them.

Easter, of course, is not complete without lots of chocolate, so if you fancy a chocolate cake and want to have a go baking one yourself, this triple-layer vegan chocolate cake recipe is worth a look.

Its ingredients include coconut sugar, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, coconut oil, vanilla extract, apple cider vinegar, flour, icing sugar, almond milk, and chocolate eggs for the cake and icing.

You’ll be impressed by what can be created without butter or eggs in sight!

Simple kids’ Easter cake

Sometimes simple is best, and children love plain cakes as long as they are covered with sugary icing.

This Easy Peasy Easter Cake uses flour, sugar, cocoa, vegetable oil, vinegar and vanilla extract to create the batter. Simply bake this in the oven and leave to cool before decorating with buttercream icing and plenty of chocolates.

Tips To Help You Find The Best Vegetarian Cake

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:40:29 GMT

If you’re a vegetarian or you’re throwing a party and you’ve invited friends who avoid eating meat, finding the right cake can be a bit of a nightmare! That’s because cakes are often made with surprising ingredients, some of which might be derived from animals.

If you or your guests are vegetarian and you want your party to be an inclusive affair that caters to all, fear not as we’re on hand with some useful tips to help you source the right cake.

Why Go Vegetarian

When it comes to the reasons for choosing vegetarian cakes, people do so for various reasons. While some choose to live a meat-free lifestyle due to ethical reasons, for others allergies can also be a factor.

Additionally, religious beliefs and dietary restrictions may guide individuals towards meatless options, as certain religions advocate for vegetarianism or have rules regarding the consumption of some types of meat.

These diverse reasons underline the importance of catering to different dietary preferences and ensuring your cake is inclusive and enjoyable for all.

Check Labels And Ingredients

The most obvious way of ensuring your cake is vegetarian is to check the label. If a cake is vegetarian then it should contain the vegetarian trademark, symbolised with a green letter “v”.

If this trademark is not present then be very careful as the cake could well contain products that are derived from animals such as gelatine or animal fats, such as beef or pork fat.

These components, often used to achieve specific textures or flavours, can be found in certain traditional or regional recipes. So it’s essential for consumers to be aware of the ingredients in cakes, especially if dietary restrictions such as vegetarianism or veganism are important considerations.

Ask

If you’re purchasing your cake from a person or business that specialises in creating cakes, be sure to ask them about the ingredients and make sure they know you want a vegetarian cake.

If you’re dealing with a professional company then they should ask you about any dietary restrictions or allergies while you’re ordering your cake. But if for any reason they forget or overlook this step then speak to them about it before your cake is made.

Find A Vegetarian Baker

With vegetarian cakes becoming such a hit, it’s no surprise to find many bakers offering just veggie-friendly options.

A dedicated vegetarian or vegan bakery is more likely to share your ethical stance, taking the job of creating delicious cakes that are free from animal derivatives seriously.

When looking for a company specialising in vegetarian cakes, look for online reviews, ask for recommendations from local vegan communities, or check social media platforms for testimonials.

Engaging with a vegetarian baker ensures you end up with a cake that’s crafted with expertise and creativity, which also meets your dietary preferences.

Frosting

When searching for a vegetarian option, paying attention to not just the cake but also the frosting is crucial.

Traditional frostings may contain ingredients derived from animals such as gelatine or certain food colourings that come from crushed up insects . Yes, you read that right!

So check this before you make your choice. Again, the key here is open communication with your baker who will need to know of your preferences.

Eggless Cakes

Another option you have when purchasing a cake is going eggless. In recent years, egg-free cakes have taken the world of cakes by storm, changing the landscape and altering the way many cakes are created.

With more people taking an interest in ethical and dietary alternatives, this has resulted in egg-free cakes becoming the go-to choice for many.

As well as catering to those with an egg allergy, these cakes are not only delicious and healthy but are also indistinguishable from regular desserts.

So if you’re looking for a veggie cake and eggless baking sounds like it’s right up your street, you’ll be glad to know we offer both of these options!

So get in touch and we’d be delighted to create a dream cake for your party or event.

What Are Naked Cakes And Why Are They Great for Weddings?

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 09:20:42 GMT

If you’ve spent any time shopping for a cake for a party or celebration, you may have come across some that are described as “naked”. To those in the know, these are a variety of cakes that are becoming more and more common, but for those unfamiliar the name may raise an eyebrow or two!

So what are naked cakes and how did they inherit their cheeky moniker? Let’s find out…

Naked Cakes Explained

The term ‘naked’ usually means something is forgoing the usual exterior, i.e. clothes. In this case, the cake is created without any frosting on the outside. Instead, these cakes embrace a more minimalist and exposed look , where the layers of cake and the delicious filling that sits in between them are partially or entirely visible.

The sides of the cake are usually left bare, so those who are ready to tuck in can see the delicious layers beneath, creating a visually appealing dessert that’s bound to leave you salivating!

Why People Choose Naked Cakes:

As well as the aesthetic appeal, there are several reasons why some individuals choose a naked cake if they’re throwing a party. These include the following:

Focus on Flavour:

By taking away what some may see as excessive frosting, naked cakes place an emphasis on the mouth-watering flavours within the actual cake itself.

So with the frosting sitting this one out, the layers and fillings take centre stage, which for some can create a more satisfying experience, especially if you’re a cake connoisseur!

Versatility:

While some types of cakes are only suitable for certain occasions, naked cakes are extremely versatile, making them a great fit for practically any party or event.

So whether you’re throwing a casual gathering or a formal affair, the adaptable nature of naked cakes makes them a suitable choice.

Lighter Option:

For some, cakes with frosting are simply too sweet and heavy . If you count yourself among those who prefer a lighter dessert then all that frosting and cream could ruin your enjoyment.

With the frosting removed, this makes for a lighter cake, making it the ideal choice for those who prefer subtle sweetness.

Naked Wedding Cakes

If you’re getting married or you’re on cake-buying duties for someone who is, you may be overwhelmed with all the choice available. Indeed, locating the right cake that caters to all tastes and puts the literal icing on the big day can be a bit of a challenge.

This is where naked cakes can save the day as they provide elegance, yumminess and a high level of customisation, which is why couples are increasingly opting for these minimalistic options.

Moreover, a naked wedding cake brings a sense of elegance to the dessert table and they’re naturally unpretentious which, let’s face it, can't be said for all wedding cakes!

Naked wedding cakes are also highly customisable. Couples can choose fillings that hold personal significance and coordinate the aesthetics of the cake with their wedding colour. Flowers can also be added to jazz up the appearance if necessary!

Eggless Cakes

Another option you have when purchasing your wedding cake is eggless. In recent years, egg-free cakes have taken the culinary world by storm, changing the way many of us indulge in our sweet treats.

A combination of more people taking an interest in ethical and dietary alternatives, along with the rise in the popularity of sustainable options has seen egg-free cakes become the go-to choice for many.

As well as catering to those with an egg allergy, these cakes are not only delicious and healthy but are also indistinguishable from regular desserts.

If eggless baking sounds like it’s right up your street, and you’re keen on a naked cake for your wedding, you’ll be glad to know we combine the two for a tasty, minimalist creation.

So get in touch and we’d be delighted to create a dream cake for your dream day!

Remember These 5 Food Allergens If You’re Throwing A Party

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 05:49:41 GMT

For most of us, indulging in our favourite comfort food is a great way to relax and unwind. However, for the millions of Brits who live with food allergies, choosing something to eat can pose a number of risks and challenges.

That’s because, depending on the severity of the allergy, consuming something you’re allergic to can be extremely dangerous, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, sickness, swollen lips, anaphylaxis and, in extreme cases, even death.

If you’re hosting a party or function and you’re considering serving food, allergens are something you will need to consider.

In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the most common food allergens so you know what to watch out for. This should help you keep your guests informed to prevent any mishaps!

Nuts

Nuts are probably the most obvious place to begin as those who are allergic to them need to be extremely careful.

Despite being packed full of nutrition, sadly the big drawback to nuts is they’re one of the most prevalent food allergens. All types of nuts including walnuts, hazelnuts and Brazil nuts can be allergenic, while even peanuts, cashews and almonds (which are technically legumes) are also capable of causing sickness.

The proteins found in nuts can trigger allergic reactions, ranging from hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis. So if you’re serving food for guests, check whether there are any nuts and make each person attending aware, just in case any of them have an allergy.

Dairy Products

Dairy products are used in many of our everyday foods, so for those who are lactose intolerant, this can create a minefield. This allergy means anything with milk – cheese, ice cream, yoghurt and many sweet treats – is off limits.

Lactase is an enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose, which is the sugar found in milk and dairy products. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body has insufficient levels of this enzyme, which means the lactose cannot be properly digested in the small intestine.

Although lactose intolerance rarely poses the level of risk that foods like nuts do, for those allergic to dairy, failure to abstain may trigger a number of uncomfortable symptoms, including digestive discomfort, bloating and diarrhoea.

Shellfish

The term ‘shellfish’ describes a broad spectrum of crustaceans like shrimp, crab, clams, oysters and mussels. While many people love the taste of these nutritious sea creatures, others are forced to avoid these delicacies as they can prove to be a potent allergen.

The proteins in shellfish can create allergic reactions in some people and the symptoms can range from mild itching to more serious breathing difficulties.

If any of your guests are unfortunate enough to have an allergy then you’ll need to make sure they’re made aware of any recipes that contain shellfish. Thankfully, identifying shellfish is usually much more straightforward than other foods such as nuts.

Soy

Amid the rise of plant-based foods and more people trying out vegetarian and vegan diets, soy is an ingredient that’s becoming more and more popular.

But while most of those who consume soy can do so without any noticeable reaction, a small minority may experience reactions.

Soy is made from the soybean, which is nutritious and packed full of protein. However, it’s some of these protein compounds that can cause reactions in some who consume them.

Like other allergens on this list, reactions to soy include skin rashes, digestive complaints and breathing difficulties. So be sure to check whether any of your food contains soy, especially if you have any meat substitutes as these tend to contain high amounts of the plant material.

Eggs

Eggs are another nutritional powerhouse that make their way into many of our most popular recipes and dishes. Sadly, they’re also among the most common food allergens and the proteins in the white and yolk can provoke a reaction in some.

Although the exact cause of egg allergies is unknown, it’s believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors are at play. Individuals with a family history of allergies are more likely to develop allergic reactions.

Depending on the level of sensitivity, symptoms can range from the mild, such as hives or digestive discomfort, to more severe reactions, including respiratory issues or anaphylaxis.

Eggless Baking

As we’ve learned, egg allergies can result in sickness for those who have an allergy and accidentally consume them.

This explains why egg-free baking is proving to be a serious game-changer. Egg allergies are relatively common and, for those affected, consuming even a minute amount of egg can lead to some severe reactions.

By completely removing eggs from recipes, people with allergies don't need to worry about their little indulgence causing them any discomfort or even a potential medical emergency!

Here at Cake Inn, we specialise in eggless baking, creating a wide variety of sweet treats that eschew the use of eggs. So if you have any guests at your party with an egg allergy then get in touch as we can create some of the most indulgent cakes and sweet treats imaginable!

Eggless Baking Benefits

Although eggless baking allows those with an allergy to eat their favourite sweet treats, this culinary ingenuity is about more than just inclusivity. Here are some additional benefits:

Flavour Varieties

From classic vanilla and chocolate to exotic fruit and cheesecake, eggless cakes and desserts come in an array of delicious flavours and varieties, so you’re sure to find something to suit all preferences!

Moist and Tender Texture

Skilled bakers have mastered the art of eggless baking, ensuring all of our desserts are as moist, tender and decadent as their egg-based counterparts!

Religious Compliance

Some cultures and religions avoid eggs as they’re forbidden. So if any of your guests happen to practise any of these religions then the presence of eggs will mean they can’t enjoy your food.

By opting for eggless, this means people of all faiths can indulge in your sweet treats, ensuring your menu is as inclusive as possible.

Ethical

Some types of eggs are still produced by battery or barn hens which have an extremely poor quality of life . What’s worrying is cake recipes often contain these cheap eggs to help the manufacturer save on costs.

If you’re concerned about animal welfare, you can relax safe in the knowledge no unethical eggs were used to create your egg-free cake !

Customisation

Just like traditional desserts, eggless baked goods can be customised to suit the theme and style of your party. We create wedding cakes, birthday cakes, kids’ cakes and more. Or if you want something bespoke, we can also create something custom-made too.

So that covers five of the most serious food allergies. In truth, many of us don’t think about food allergies, but if you were unaware of the seriousness then hopefully this has educated you a little.

If you’re throwing a party, allergies are a serious concern that you’ll need to prepare for. Start by asking all of your guests whether they have any food allergies, which should help you choose an inclusive menu that suits all your guests.

If any of your guests happen to be allergic to eggs you know what to do – get in touch and tell us what you need and let us do the rest! And even if none of your guests are allergic to eggs, you can still try some eggless baking as it’s healthy, tastes great and provides an inclusive alternative to eggs!

5 Non-Vegetarian Ingredients Found In Some Cakes

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 08:21:42 GMT

If you’re a vegetarian or you’re following a plant-based diet, you’ll know that purchasing cakes and other desserts can be a bit of a minefield. That’s because there can be all sorts of non-veggie ingredients hidden in these recipes.

Thankfully we’re here to help you adhere to your dietary preferences, so without further ado, here are some ingredients you’ll want to avoid if you’re a vegetarian.

Lard

First up on the list of deplorables is lard, which is still a surprisingly common ingredient in some cake mixtures.

Often used in traditional recipes, lard, which is derived from rendered pig fat, can find its way into certain cakes, particularly those that were created in regions where the ingredient is commonly used.

The issue is that lard’s presence might not be stated. But for vegetarians or those following certain religions, this could create a real problem. So before you tuck into those cakes or sweet treats, be sure to check the ingredients.

Gelatin

Next up it’s gelatin and this one is probably the most common of all the ingredients on this list. Although you’ll mostly find gelatine in confectionary and yoghurts, it can also find its way into some cake recipes too.

Obtained from animal collagen , gelatine is typically sourced from the bones, skin or connective tissues of pigs, cows or marine creatures. So it goes without saying that the presence of this ingredient renders any recipe non-vegetarian.

Gelatin is used as a binder or thickener in fillings or frosting but, as pointed out, it can find its way into many types of recipes so keep this in mind the next time you fancy a sweet treat!

Rennet

Ever heard of rennet? Many haven’t, but you’d be surprised to know it’s lurking in many cheesecakes or creamy delights. If you’re unfamiliar with this enzyme, you’ll be even more surprised (or horrified) when you discover where it comes from. That’s because it’s sourced from the stomach lining of young calves. Pretty disgusting, right?

Rennet is used in cheese production by aiding coagulation. Its presence in certain cake recipes might repulse those who are on a strictly vegetarian diet, so if you’re trying to avoid animal products then be careful as you might get more than you bargained for if you fail to check the label or ask the person who made it.

Glycerine

This one is sometimes tricky to spot, as it comes in two forms: vegetable and animal-derived. The problem is when you look at a food label and see the word “glycerine”, sometimes it might not be stated which one it is. This is where problems can arise for those on a vegetarian or plant-based diet.

Some types of glycerine are sourced from animal fats, making its appearance in cakes a potential cause for concern among vegetarians.

The good news is that plant-based glycerine is usually referred to as vegetable glycerine. So if you spot glycerine on a label and it doesn’t say it’s vegetable, tread with caution!

Carmine

We really did save the best ‘til last with this one! Carmine, also known as cochineal extract or natural red 4, adds a beautiful vibrant hue to frostings or decorative elements.

However, that’s where the positives end – unless you enjoy gorging on crushed-up insects , that is! That’s right, this red dye is derived from crushed female cochineal beetles, making this an unwanted ingredient for those following a vegetarian diet. Or any diet for that matter!

Vegetarian Cakes

If you’re in search of some vegetarian cakes and you’re worried about navigating the minefield purchasing desserts poses for anyone looking to avoid animal products, luckily you’ve come to the right place.

Here at Cake Inn, we specialise in vegetarian baking. What’s more, all of our recipes eschew the use of eggs, so if you’re trying to avoid those too, you’re in luck!

Our egg-free cake shop offers a wide range of cakes for all occasions. So whether you’ve got a wedding coming up and you need a cake, or you’re just looking for some sweet treats for a kids’ birthday party, we have you covered. And best of all, they’re all completely vegetarian and egg-free!

So those are the main ingredients you need to avoid if you’re on a vegetarian diet. As you can see, there are some covert additions lurking in your food, so always check the labels, or better still get all your cakes from a trusted source. Wink, wink!

5 Alternatives To Eggs

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:33:17 GMT

For centuries eggs were viewed as an integral part of many recipes. However, whether it’s for ethical, religious, health reasons or allergies, these days some would prefer not to eat them.

If you’re thinking of baking something delicious, but you want to avoid using eggs then you’ll be glad to know there are loads of alternatives you can use. What’s even better is that many of them make such good substitutes, you won't even be able to tell the difference!

So if you’re avoiding eggs for whatever reason, here are five substitutes that will help you bake something truly scrumptious!

Silken Tofu

Silken tofu is a soft, delicate type of tofu that’s made by curdling soy milk into a smooth, custard-like texture. This tofu originated in East Asia and is commonly used in various Asian cuisines.

Over the last few years, silken tofu has played an increasingly important role in eggless baking. Due to its silky, gooey texture, it can create the ideal substitute in many recipes.

Mashed Banana

This one may surprise you, but mashed up banana can actually make a surprisingly effective substitute for eggs in some recipes. Due to its sticky texture, bananas help ingredients bind together, much like eggs.

Bananas are rich in potassium, fibre, and vitamins , promoting heart health, digestion and providing a natural sweetness, meaning you won’t have to use as much sugar. Winner winner!

Applesauce

Made from mashed up apples, this is one of the most popular substitutes for eggs that’s used in many eggless recipes.

Applesauce provides a vegan-friendly and lower-fat alternative to eggs acting as a binding agent and adding moisture to your recipe. Despite containing natural sugars and being sweet in nature, applesauce also contains less calories than eggs, which is another reason many love to use it in their recipes!

Ground Flax Seeds

Flax seeds are a favourite among vegans and vegetarians as they’re packed full of omega-3s , the health-boosting fatty acids usually found in fish. They also contain fibre and antioxidants, supporting heart health, digestion and offering a variety of health benefits.

Clever eggless bakers have worked out that if you mix ground flax seeds with water, it creates a sticky paste that can be used to bind some ingredients. Although this isn’t as effective as some as a binding agent, it’s one of the most healthy alternatives to eggs which makes it worth a go!

Yoghurt

Due to its moisture content and binding properties, Yogurt can serve as an egg substitute in baking, especially if you only need an egg or two.

Depending on your reasons for going eggless, you may want to use dairy or non-dairy yoghurt. If you’re a vegan then obviously a soya or coconut-based yoghurt would work well, while for those avoiding eggs due to religious or allergy-related reasons, a standard dairy yoghurt would work well.

So those are five alternatives to eggs. If you’re looking for inspiration to create an eggfree cake , these ingredients work well as egg substitutes.

Here at Cake Inn, we sell many eggless options. So if you’re hosting a party or function, get in touch and we’ll be delighted to provide some delicious eggless creations!

Tips For Throwing A Great Holy Communion Party

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 07:39:34 GMT

Holy communion marks a significant passage for a young Christian. With the sharing of bread and wine representing a unity with Christ, this special occasion holds a deep spiritual significance.

It’s no surprise then that many parents whose children are making their first holy communion wish to celebrate the occasion in style. If you’re one of them and you want to pull out all the stops to make your child’s holy communion a spectacular day, you’ve come to the right place.

Here we’ll go over some of the must-haves, helping you create the perfect party for your child’s first communion which should make it a day they’ll never forget.

Invitations

The main purpose of invitations is to notify your guests of your upcoming celebration. However, they do much more than just that . Invitations also set the tone for your party, so the more effort you put in the more excited your guests will be for the big occasion!

Try crafting invitations that mirror the special nature of the occasion. You could opt for elegant designs with religious motifs or symbols such as the holy cross. You could also include a specific passage or verse that carries meaning, or you might prefer to keep it simple with invitations that are minimal and elegant. The choice is yours.

Decor

If you’re looking to go all out then decorations are a must! By decorating your home or the venue you’ve hired, you can put those extra special touches on your celebrations and make it a day to truly remember for your child.

Try to create an ambiance that befits the sanctity of the day. Candles will add some soft light and create a warm aura, setting the tone for the celebration.

Likewise, delicate floral arrangements and some subtle religious symbols are a fitting touch that really put the icing on the cake.

Holy Communion Cake

Speaking of cakes, what party would be complete without one?! If you’re celebrating your child’s first communion then a cake will help put the finishing touches on an extra special day.

We produce a wide range of holy communion cakes that can be customised to suit all tastes and dietary preferences. So you have something in mind, reach out and speak to us and we should be able to make it happen!

We also refrain from using eggs in our baking, so if any of your guests are allergic to eggs or choose not to eat them due to ethical or health reasons, extra brownie points for you!

A Guest Book

Setting up a guest book for friends and family to leave messages and blessings for the communicant creates a beautiful keepsake, giving them something they can look at fondly for many years to come.

Don’t Forget To Snap

In this digital age, most of us don’t need reminding to take photographs. But we thought we’d include it anyway, just in case you get lost in the magic of the day and forget to take some all-important snaps!

Photographs help preserve your cherished memories , freezing them in time for you to look back on in years to come. So make sure you take plenty of snaps, capturing those candid moments and joyful faces.

Delicious Menu

Whether you’re hiring a venue and looking to go all out, or you’re hosting a small get-together back at home, some delicious grub after a long day will be just the tonic for your guests.

Choose a selection of tantalising finger foods, delectable appetisers and perhaps a buffet featuring an array of culinary delights. And if there’s a mixture of young and old guests, try to strike a nice balance between sweet and savoury offerings.

So those are our tips for creating a memorable holy communion party. Whether you’re looking to splash the cash or you’re on a tight budget, you should be able to make it an extra special day that’s befitting the momentous occasion.

By offering some delicious food, decorating your space appropriately, providing a guest book and purchasing one of our holy communion cakes, you can be sure your child and your guests have a wonderful day. Oh and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures to remember the day forever!

5 Occasions Befitting Of A Personalised Photo Cake

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 10:19:52 GMT

Here in the UK, we just love a good knees up! Whether it’s the consistently dreary weather or our penchant for a merry old get-together, most of us only need half an excuse for a party!

Depending on the magnitude of the celebration, you might just choose to pull out all the stops with food, entertainment and a delicious cake for you and your guests to sink your teeth into!

If you’re looking for something even more memorable, you might even opt for a personalised photo cake to put the cherry on the top of your evening.

If you’re unfamiliar with these cakes or you’re keen to find out what types of celebrations they best suit, we’ve put together this post that should answer all your questions.

Birthday Party

Whether it’s a landmark occasion like an 18th or 40th, or a regular birthday, a personalised cake can make someone feel extra special on their birthday.

When it comes to choosing the photo to include on the cake, this is where you can get creative. If you’re a bit of a meanie, for comedy value you might choose to put a less-than-flattering snap of them sporting an old-fashioned hairdo!

Alternatively, if you’d prefer not to embarrass the birthday boy or girl, you could choose something a little kinder instead. Ultimately, it all boils down to preference..

Wedding

If you’re throwing a wedding or you’re organising the cake for a couple who’s getting married, a personalised option could prove to be a bit hit among guests.

By choosing a cake that features a snapshot of a romantic moment enjoyed by the happy couple, this can serve as a centrepiece and a reminder to guests of the special bond they hold.

Anniversary

There’s an old saying that goes, “getting married is the easy bit – it’s staying together, that’s the hard part”, or something along those lines!

Indeed this often rings true, which is why anniversaries, and in particular milestone occasions like silver, gold, ruby and diamond anniversaries, are something truly worth celebrating.

By choosing a cake that’s adorned with a cherished picture from their wedding day or a picture of a treasured moment shared sometime over the years, a cake can serve as a special reminder of the journey the couple have been on together.

Graduation

As a parent, few moments can fill you with pride quite like your child graduating from university.

Nothing beats seeing them kitted out in their hat and gown, full of pride as they smile for the camera – and this image can serve as the perfect photo for a personalised cake on their graduation party!

Christening

Although fewer Brits would class themselves as religious these days, nevertheless christenings are still popular with the Church of England carrying out around 10,000 ceremonies each month .

With each of these comes an excuse to throw a party, and an adorable snap of the young child that’s been christened on the cake would undoubtedly create a cuteness overload!

How you and your guests would feel about biting into a cake adorned with the image of a baby might be something to consider, but for those with a particularly sweet tooth it shouldn’t pose too much of a problem!

Eggless Cakes

Eggless cakes are perfect for those who may have dietary restrictions or preferences as they provide all the great flavour you usually get with cakes!

When many people hear the term “eggless”, they worry about what’s missing and believe it will affect the taste. However, rather than worrying about what isn’t there, we prefer to focus on what is ! So what exactly is in eggless cakes that makes them indistinguishable to cakes with egg?

The answer is we use clever alternatives that not only taste great but in some instances actually make the cake healthier, so you can enjoy double the delight! And best of all, all of our eggless cakes can be used for our personalised photos, so they take none of the magic away from your celebration.

So those are the main types of celebration you can use a personalised cake for. In truth they look great on any cake, and they’re guaranteed to add that extra special touch you crave!

Ideas For Serving Your Lacto-Vegetarian Guests

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 10:17:41 GMT

So you’re throwing a party or you’re having guests round for dinner, and one of them tells you they’re a lacto-vegetarian. Not wanting to sound ignorant or foolish, you coyly nod your head and say you’ll make sure there’s plenty of food options, to which they seem extremely grateful.

But now it’s time to come up with the goods and you’re not sure what to offer them! The good news is lacto-vegetarian simply means your guests don’t eat meat, fish or eggs. The bad news is this potentially rules out plenty of the stuff you'd usually serve!

Fear not, as we’re on hand to offer some tips and advice for anyone looking to serve food for lacto-vegetarians at a party or get-together party.

Appetisers

To fire up your guests’ taste buds, it’s always a good idea to serve up some appetisers or starters. But with age-old classics like the prawn cocktail off the menu, what could you serve this time?

Many vegetarians enjoy mushrooms, so why not stuff some with feta cheese and serve as a starter? Vegetable spring rolls are also sure to go down a treat, as is bruschetta with diced tomatoes. All of these cater to lacto-vegetarians and make for delicious appetisers for all guests.

Main Course

When you come to serving your main course, this is where it can get a little tricky. Although you want to ensure your lacto-vegetarian guests feel included, you don’t want to alienate other guests who may expect meat or fish. For this reason, you may wish to serve different options.

However, if you’re only able (or willing) to serve one course, there are some options that should suit all guests. A nut roast, which uses a blend of roasted nuts, vegetables and seasonings, makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Likewise, stuffed peppers or mushrooms filled with a mixture of rice, vegetables and herbs, can offer a satisfying option.

The options are practically endless. The trick is to provide something that appeals to all.

Salad

Salads go down well at all parties so if you’re serving for vegetarians don’t forget to include one. A vibrant mixed greens salad with a zingy dressing is a staple that complements a variety of dishes.

Dairy Delights

As your lacto-vegetarian guests can eat dairy products, you don't need to pull these from your menu. Which is great news as there are many month-watering items you can include!

These include, among many others, a cheese board, pizza and a range of scrumptious desserts. Just make sure those desserts don’t contain any eggs as these will go against your lacto-vegetarian guests’ dietary choices

Side Dishes

The side dishes you choose can make quite a big difference to the overall experience your guests have as they can add depth and variety to your menu.

For side dishes that appeal to all, choose roasted or mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or buttered corn on the cob. Get creative with your seasonings by adding different spices, seasonings and sauces.

Eggless Desserts

Now for the most important part of any meal – the dessert! If you're looking for a sweet treat that caters to your lacto-vegetarian guests then look no further than eggless cakes .

These delightful cakes are perfect for those who may have dietary restrictions or preferences as they compromise on none of the delectable deliciousness! Despite there being no eggs, this doesn’t affect the taste or texture as we use clever alternatives which are often healthier and come with a range of perks.

You can choose from a wide variety of eggless cake options. So whether you're having a wedding and want to cater to all guests, or you’re just throwing a little dinner party and require a few treats for afters, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

So those are a few ideas if you have lacto-vegetarian guests coming to your wedding, party or get-together. Although it might seem tricky as you can't serve meat, fish or eggs, as you can see there are still many options you can choose from. So with dairy, as well as eggless cakes, on the menu, your guests are guaranteed to be full and satisfied!

Eggless Baking For Throwing Inclusive Celebrations

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 09:20:03 GMT

Throwing a party or wedding? Then you’ll no doubt view this special occasion as a time for joy, celebration and bringing your nearest and dearest together.

The sense of unity a celebration like this creates is precisely why it’s important to ensure your food offerings cater to all your guests. Trouble is, in today’s diverse world, that can be a bit of a challenge!

Thankfully, eggless baking is here to save the day as it uses alternatives to eggs to produce delicious cakes, pastries and biscuits, earning you extra brownie points all round!

Here we dive into the world of eggless baking and discover how it caters to a range of dietary preferences, and we’ll also touch on why offering a diverse selection of food can elevate your event to a whole new level of inclusivity.

People Who Prefer Eggless Baking

Eggless baking covers a wide range of diets, including:

Vegetarian Diets

Some recipes contain animal-derivatives. For those who prefer their indulgences to be vegetarian, eggless baking aligns perfectly with this dietary preference.

Vegan Lifestyles

Veganism goes a step further than vegetarian diets by cutting out animal products all together, avoiding things like dairy and honey. Eggless baking, which sometimes excludes dairy as well, is an ideal choice for vegans and those leaning towards a plant-based lifestyle.

Having said that, keep in mind that not all eggless recipes remove dairy so this would depend on the ones you chose.

Religious Practices

Many religions forbid the consumption of eggs . By opting for eggless baking, you respect these practices and ensure that your event is inclusive for all.

Allergies And Sensitivities

Eggs are one of the most common allergens. Furthermore, the condition is more prevalent among children , and let’s face it they'll probably be the guests most keen to gorge on the cakes!

By offering eggless options, you create a safe environment for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to enjoy their night uninterrupted.

Health-Conscious Choices

Lastly, for those who like to keep their cholesterol intake to a minimum, eggless baking provides a delectable, guilt-free solution.

Guests Eggless Baking Caters To

Choosing eggless cakes for your guests is beneficial for a number of reasons, including:

Promotes Inclusivity

Throwing an inclusive get-together creates a welcoming environment where everyone feels respected and valued.

Dietary preferences and restrictions are diverse and by offering eggless baked goods at your celebration you can foster a sense of acceptance.

Thoughtfulness

It also shows your guests that you've thought about their well-being and comfort, reflecting your considerate nature.

Unity

Inclusive events foster a sense of togetherness and using the delicious power of desserts to bring everyone together is a shrewd move!

Reduces Stress

Guests with dietary restrictions may worry about finding suitable food at events. At the same time, some might feel nervous about mentioning their preferences for fear of appearing awkward.

Offering eggless options alleviates both of these concerns and allows them to enjoy your celebration without these distractions.

Eggless Baking Benefits

Eggless baking isn’t just about dietary inclusivity, it's also about taste and texture. So as well as keeping everyone happy by catering to a wide variety of guests, you can also expect to receive some rave reviews for your palate-pleasing sweet treats!

Here’s why eggless baking is becoming so popular.

Flavour Varieties

From classic vanilla and chocolate to exotic fruit and nut combinations, eggless cakes and desserts come in an array of delicious flavours so there should be something to suit all preferences!

Moist and Tender Texture

Skilled bakers like ourselves have mastered the art of eggless baking, ensuring all of our desserts are as moist, tender and as insanely indulgent as their egg-based counterparts!

Customisation

Just like traditional desserts, eggless baked goods can be customised to suit the theme and style of your event. So if you’re planning a kids party, a wedding or you’re looking for something bespoke, we have the capabilities to deliver exactly what you’re looking for.

So those are the main benefits of using eggless baking at your wedding or party. If you’re throwing a special get-together, using egg-free cakes will allow you to include those with specific dietary choices, promoting togetherness and ensuring all your guests are able to enjoy the sweet treats.

If you’re searching for some inclusive options, our https://www.cakeinn.co.uk/shop has a range of delicious cakes to choose from!

Why Are Glacé Cherries Used In Cakes?

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 09:08:21 GMT

Whilst it is difficult to find a fruit that does not have a place in a cake shop , one of the most popular fruits in a variety of baking recipes is undoubtedly the cherry.

However, what might be unusual to some is that most recipes do not ask for fresh cherries but in fact specifically request a highly preserved, syrupy-sweet variation known as a glacé cherry.

There are three very good reasons for this, two that are particularly obvious and one that specifically helps to make cakes more consistent and therefore better looking.

The first obvious reason is to do with practicality. Glacé cherries are made by being soaked in hot syrup for a very long time, which in turn preserves them, making them last far longer than a traditional cherry would.

Whilst most fresh fruits tend to last no more than a few weeks at their best, glacé cherries can last up to a year, and potentially even longer if they are stored in a way that helps avoid spoilage.

Another part of it is the sweet flavour, which often benefits certain types of cake batter that tend to be less sweet, such as pancakes and fruitcakes. Raisins are often used in both of these for largely the same reason.

However, the biggest reason why glacé cherries are preferred relates to the process of baking itself. Cherries and other fruits tend to have a lot of moisture, which causes them to be quite heavy and sink to the bottom of the cake batter, leading to an inconsistent mix when put in the oven.

Using ground almonds can help, as can dusting the cherries with flour to dry them out slightly and provide a better grip in the batter. Cutting them into halves or even quarters can help to avoid a very inconsistent bake as well.

Why Egg-Free Cakes And Pastries Have Become Such A Big Hit

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 08:27:00 GMT

In recent years, egg-free options have taken the culinary world by storm, changing the way many of us approach baking.

A combination of more people taking an interest in ethical/dietary alternatives and the rise in the popularity of sustainable choices have seen egg-free cake and pastry options become the go-to choice for many.

The various benefits of cooking without eggs, as well as the innovative alternatives being used, means that eggless baking is a fascinating topic. So we decided to cover this interesting area to explain why the demand for egg-free baking continues to grow.

Vegan Revolution

Veganism and other plant-based diets have become extremely popular over the past few years, which has played a significant role in the rise of eggless baking.

Eggs are commonly used as a binding agent in traditional recipes, but in egg-free baking they’ve been replaced with various plant-based alternatives, such as flaxseeds, applesauce, silken tofu and aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas. Innovative, eh?!

These alternatives allow vegans to enjoy their favourite baked goods without compromising on their ethical and dietary choices. Having said that, a lot of eggless baking isn’t vegan-friendly, so below we’ll cover some other reasons why egg-free baking has become such a hit.

Allergy-Friendly

For some, egg allergies can be extremely unwanted guests at the dinner table, causing skin rashes, digestive discomfort and in rare cases even anaphylaxis which causes shortness of breath and a swollen throat.

For individuals with egg allergies, egg-free baking has proven to be a serious game-changer. Egg allergies are relatively common and, for those affected, consuming even a trace amount of egg can lead to severe reactions.

By completely removing eggs from recipes, people with allergies needn’t worry about their little indulgence causing them discomfort or even a potential medical emergency.

Health-Conscious Choices

Baking without eggs isn't just for vegans and those who suffer from allergies – it's also embraced by the health-conscious, too.

Many egg substitutes are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol , which makes them a great choice for anyone keen to protect heart health. Likewise, some egg substitutes such as applesauce provide a natural sweetness, which can reduce the amount of added sugar required.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a hot topic right now, with the world really starting to take climate change seriously. If you’d place yourself in the eco-conscious camp then you may be attracted by the environmental benefits of egg-free baking.

Eggless baking offers a greener option as eggs can be pretty damaging to the environment . This is due to concerns over resource-intensive production, greenhouse gas emissions and potential habitat destruction associated with industrial-scale egg farming.

Choosing egg-free alternatives can help reduce your ecological impact, making it the obvious choice if you’re trying to take a more sustainable approach to the planet.

Culinary Creativity

Us bakers welcome innovation and eggless baking encourages creativity in the kitchen.

Experimenting with various substitutes can lead to innovative recipes and unexpected flavour combinations. So for those of us who love to play around with recipes and create unique treats, the possibilities are practically endless.

So those are the main reasons why eggless baking has become so popular recently. Whether you’re looking for something that aligns with your dietary, ethical or environmental stance, egg-free options could provide the solution you’re looking for.

Celebratory Cakes You Can Make For Upcoming National Days

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:06:24 GMT

No nation can have been as determined to celebrate its Independence Day as Ukraine this month. The celebration on August 24th was an opportunity for Ukrainians at home and abroad to express national pride in the face of the persistent attempt by Russia to eliminate it.

For many ex-pats living in the UK and elsewhere, the celebrations have included many traditional meals. But that has not just been about bowls of borsht (a traditional beetroot soup) or other savoury dishes. There will have been lots of celebration cakes carrying the yellow and blue colours of the Ukrainian flag in their icing or filling.

If Ukrainians living in Britain have had the greatest cause for patriotism and assertion of national identity, that does not mean those with an affiliation to other countries won’t still feel deeply about their own nations. Ex-pats everywhere will have their own days to celebrate.

Earlier in the summer we covered the possibilities for those helping American friends mark their Independence Day on July 4th, but there are more to come shortly.

For example, as early as September 1st are the National days of two other countries that, like Ukraine, became independent after the Cold War; Uzbekistan , another former Soviet Republic, plus Slovakia, which peacefully split with the Czech Republic in the so-called ‘Velvet Divorce’ of 1993 and is marking constitution day .

The latter has red, white and blue colours, which means some of the American themes might be revised for it, while Uzbekistan’s colours are green and white.

September is a particularly busy month for national days. It also marks the post-Soviet independence of Tajikistan (September 9th) and Armenia (September 21st), but it’s not just the breakup of the USSR that leads to a pile-up of special dates.

Remarkably, across the Hispanic Caribbean and Central America, the Independence Days of Costa Rica , El Salvador , Guatemala and Honduras all fall on September 15th, with Mexico following the next day. Elsewhere in Latin America, Brazil marks its Independence Day on September 7th, which suggests some particularly lively celebrations can go with the cake.

Quite a few African nations once part of the British Empire mark their independence in September too, such as Swaziland (now known as eSwatini) on September 6th and Botswana on September 30th. Gibraltar , which remains a British territory, marks September 10th for the opposite reason, as the anniversary of the 1967 referendum vote to stay British.

This is not even the full list of national days in September, but it provides a wonderful array of opportunities for celebratory cakes in different colours and styles, not to mention using traditional fruits and other ingredients in some cases. You might even have a bit of Tequila in the mix if you are helping Mexicans to celebrate.

Of course, September is not all about national days. If you fancy a different kind of day to make a themed cake for, try Star Trek Day on September 8th. That’s when you can be very enterprising and boldly go and make a cake like nobody has made before.

Why Do Cakes Sometimes Break Crack Or Fall Apart?

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:40:58 GMT

Every baker has felt that moment when triumph turns to tragedy, and a cake batter that seemed utterly perfect and well-prepared as it entered the oven tragically splits open or even falls apart.

What makes this worse is that broken cakes tend to happen at the last possible moment when a baker takes their celebration cakes out of the oven, only for that elation to turn into disappointment.

Of course, with some inventive thinking, making a delicious dessert out of a broken cake is a trifling matter, but many bakers want to know why a cake would break in the first place despite everything seeming perfect.

Here are some of the most common reasons for a broken cake and how to avoid it in the future.

It Couldn’t Stand The Heat

One of the most common reasons is that the oven’s temperature was too hot, and this caused the structure and rise of the cake to be far more uneven than you expected.

Frustratingly, this can happen even if you set the temperature of the oven correctly, as depending on where the cake tin is placed in the oven, the temperature it bakes at can be slightly different.

The best way around this is to buy an oven thermometer and ensure your oven is at the right range before putting the cake in.

A Sticky Situation

Not enough can be said about making sure your cake tins are completely greased on the bottom and sides, but adding butter and flour can help, as well as a layer of baking paper to the bottom.

Combined, this will make sure your cake does not get stuck and thus does not break when trying to get it out.

Give It Time

As tempting as it is to immediately get a cake out of the pan and onto a plate as soon as it is ready, the cooling process is incredibly important to its structural stability.

Give it time to cool in the tin until it feels cool to the touch before doing anything else.

Seasonal And Tasty Late Summer Cake Flavour Inspiration

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 07:38:51 GMT

While many people think cake is simply for special occasions, such as birthday or wedding cakes , there is nothing stopping you from enjoying a slice whenever you desire. Cake is delicious and is also a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal fruits into your baking.

For those days when your berries seem a little too soft or your bananas are browning, baking a cake and incorporating these ingredients ensures they don’t go to waste, and you get a tasty treat out of it! It’s a win-win.

Peaches are the perfect late summer fruit and they happen to be a fantastic fruit to bake with. Their soft and juicy flesh and delicious flavour pair incredibly well with baked goods and using them makes for delicious, moist and morish treats.

There are many different types of peaches too, meaning you can mix and match your varieties to concoct different types of tasty baked treats.

A classic peach-inclusive recipe is a peach upside-down cake , which is a rich, sticky and syrupy bake that is a fantastic way to use up any peaches which are a little soft or squishy but still perfectly delicious.

Similarly, nectarines are also a great fruit to use. Similar to peaches but with a smooth, shiny skin instead of peach fuzz, these can be used much the same as peaches and incorporated into many different baked delights.

Nectarine jam is a delicious way to use up any leftover nectarines and can be added to any cake to make a tasty and juicy layer of fruity goodness.

Late summer is prime berry season and lots of popular and favoured varieties, such as raspberries, blackberries and blueberries, are abundant. These can be used in so many different ways when baking cakes making them a great choice.

Mixing berries into your cake mixture gives a delicious flavour to the entire sponge, you can turn them into a tasty jam to smear in between layers for a sweet and juicy bite every time, or even use them to decorate the cake once you have baked it to perfection!

Passion fruit is a more unusual choice as it is an exotic fruit, however, if you can find a way to get your hands on this tart yet tasty treat, it can really amp up your baking and take it to the next level.

The juicy pulp and seeds of passion fruits can be scooped out and swirled through your cake before baking to add a hidden surprise, or even mixed in with your frosting, icing or cream to pack a hidden punch in your cake topping.

Lemons and limes are classic ingredients in baking and these are abundant and ripe during the summertime, meaning there is plenty for you to juice, zest or candy to add to your baked treats.

Lemon and lime have a sharp, zesty flavour that helps to cut through the richness and sweetness of many cakes, making them feel lighter and more appropriate to enjoy on a hot summer's day, paired with a cold glass of homemade lemonade.

Great Summer Fruits Now In Season For Summer Cakes

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:49:18 GMT

With the summer holidays starting, parents everywhere will be spending a lot of time with their kids, whether it is going away on holiday or simply hosting them at home for weeks on end.

It may be a bit of a relief when the new term comes around and they finally go back to school, but for the next few weeks, there should be great opportunities to spend quality time with them, something the wider family can join in with too.

All that means there will be lots of opportunities for gathering and eating together. The weather may be kind enough to permit some barbecues, and there will be chips on the beach, but above all, there will be good reasons to enjoy some egg free cakes , giving everyone a treat while catering for food allergies and ensuring vegans don’t miss out.

The best reason of all for making a cake at this time of year (apart from any birthdays taking place) is that various fruits are in season . In the earlier part of summer, strawberries and raspberries are abundant, but as the later part of summer arrives it is blackberries and peaches that hit peak season.

While you might get such ingredients from the shops, this is a time when there will be so many blackberries growing wild that you can get outdoors with a big tub and pick them yourselves, providing your own key ingredient to bake into a fruitcake.

There are some important tips for blackberry picking ; if you live in a town or city, try to go for quieter areas away from busy roads, as there will be less pollution to deal with (although you will need to wash them anyway when you get home). You should also avoid the low-hanging fruit as these may have been ‘watered’ by dogs.

Unripe fruit can be left because it is of no use to anyone, but will soon be ready for plucking if left in place. Indeed, you may find there are plenty of good blackberries to be found as late as September and even early October.

Apart from this, make sure you have long sleeves on and gloves if necessary to deal with the prickly brambles you may encounter. This will make it easier for you to access juicy fruit out of reach for others due to the presence of some sharp spines.

The great thing about doing all this is that you can get the kids outside being active, rain or shine, helping provide a key ingredient to a fruity cake.

It can also provide a useful message, especially for those being raised with a vegetarian or vegan diet, that food is not something that magically appears on supermarket shelves, but is a product of the fields, hills, trees, bushes, lakes, seas and rivers in the natural world around us.

By getting closer to nature when sourcing cake ingredients, you could be giving them as valuable a lesson during the holidays as any they will get when they put on their new uniforms and return to school in September.

Unusual Cake Flavours That Are Surprisingly Delicious

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 06:54:33 GMT

Whether you’re visiting the cake shop for a big event such as a wedding or birthday or are simply craving a delicious sweet treat, finding the perfect flavour can be tricky. With so many available, how do you choose just one?

There are traditional flavours such as vanilla, chocolate, caramel, coffee and carrot which are fantastic choices if you want something which is guaranteed to be delicious and a hit with anyone who tries it, however, there are many different unusual flavours too.

While trying a flavour which may seem unusual and strange may be daunting, these combinations are just as delicious as any other cake and are bound to wow your guests and create interest and excitement.

One interesting and unique cake to try is an olive oil cake. This is a subtle flavour difference however there is definitely a difference. Olive oil is used in place of butter to create a perfectly moist, delicious and rich cake that has a subtle flavour and fantastic texture.

These cakes are perfect to pair with rich spiced flavours too, such as cardamom, as well as sharp citrus which cuts through the intensity and gives a beautiful and delicious contrast.

Other interesting flavours you can play with are botanicals and florals. Rose is a great choice as it is fresh, floral and perfumed and tastes as delicious as it smells.

Pairing with berry or your favourite nut is a great way to utilise rose and these flavours can easily be achieved by simply adding a dash of rose water to your mixture for a subtle floral aroma and taste.

Similarly, using botanical flavours such as basil or tea in your cake can give an equally fragrant and delicious mixture. Basil provides a unique freshness which pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake to create a new twist on the traditional cake.

Treat Your American Friends With A Great July 4th Cake

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 06:42:01 GMT

There may be many great occasions you might want an egg-free cake for, but if you are one of the 200,000 Americans living in the UK or have friends who are, here is one day you cannot miss.

It may have been independence from Britain, but we are all friends now (special relationship and all that) and while the 4th of July is the most quintessentially American celebration, it is also a great opportunity to help your American friends (or fellow American expats) feel at home even while on the other side of the Atlantic.

You may have a party with some traditional foods such as hot dogs, fries or pumpkin pie, but themed celebration cakes can be the best part of all.

There are many ideas out there. Fox News published a recipe for a red, white and blue Bundt Cake by lifestyle blogger Katherine Salom. The tri-coloured drizzle looks a bit like a firework. Obviously, your recipe would exclude the eggs, but the appearance can be replicated.

If you don’t fancy that (and not just because you don’t like Fox), there are loads of other cake ideas out there. Today published a list of 4th of July recipes last year that include a patriotic poke cake (made with white cream and topped with slices of strawberry plus blueberries), as well as similarly decorated ice cream cakes, pies and tarts.

The common theme here is the decoration of confectionaries with patriotic colours. Whether it is the fruity toppings, sprinkles or icing, there are numerous opportunities to create a cake that will bring the stars and stripes to every slice.

Of course, you could go a bit left field with Independence Day and have a themed cake looking like one of the giant alien spaceships from the film of that name. Just don’t put a force shield around it to keep your hungry party guests away!

Could Vegetarian Cakes Be Taking Over This Summer?

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 08:47:52 GMT

Summer is a time when we will all see many cakes. While some will have summer birthdays, others will celebrate weddings and, of course, those delicious seasonal fruits make this a great time to fill the gap between sponges with strawberries or raspberries.

All this is normal enough. But for those who like their food plant-based, there appears to be a welcome change on the way; not only is vegetarian food generally becoming increasingly available in shops, cafes and restaurants, but the chance to enjoy a vegetarian cake is too.

Vegconomist , for example, has reported on the launch of a range of mini vegan caterpillar cakes by Lazy Day, which can be sold by supermarkets across the UK.

Given that caterpillar cakes have been much in the news of late amid all kinds of copyright rows between Marks & Spencer and Aldi , it is only right that this issue should not creep (on 16 legs) past vegans and vegetarians. After all, despite the baring of fangs between retailers and the excitement of lawyers when they have scented blood, we should remember caterpillars themselves are vegans.

Buying cakes from packets in shops is one way to treat yourself, but if you want a veggie cake, you may be delighted to discover more places are offering them on days out this summer too.

The Eastern Daily Press has reported on one such instance, with a new café opening at Somerleyton Hall and Gardens in Lowestoft that serves a plant-based menu. And, joy of joys, not only does it provide vegetarian sausage rolls and quiches, but cakes too.

Bekky Croson and Oli Snow, who will open the café on June 24th, originally met while working at a cinema in Brighton and worked in various hospitality jobs before setting their heart on the Suffolk venue and a new way of catering to visitors.

Ms Croson said: "We've been in hospitality coming up to ten years now and we've always wanted to open up our own cafe, it's been a dream of ours.”

She added: "It's really important to be environmentally friendly and sustainable, we're passionate about showcasing local produce and how great vegetable options can be.”

For visitors to the venue, it means they can enjoy hours looking around the grand historic building, enjoying its art and architecture, then admiring the gardens, before coming in for refreshments and encountering a surprising and novel range of tasty things to try.

Somewhat provocatively, Ms Croson said of this prospect: "Hopefully people can get out of their comfort zone and realise that plant-based food can be better than the real thing".

Of course, you don’t have to go to the shops or visit a tourist attraction with a vegetarian café to enjoy a plant-based cake. By ordering one now, you can ensure that your big summer occasion, be it a wedding, a birthday or just an event to make the most of the long light evenings, can be graced with a vegetarian confectionery every bit as tasty as one made with animal products - or better.

Delicious Treats To Bake For Your Dad This Father’s Day

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 10:14:00 GMT

If you haven’t got your dad a Father’s Day gift yet, why not bake or buy them a delicious cake instead? What’s more, you can enjoy tucking into the decadent goodies yourself.

Here are some great cakes your dad won’t be able to resist tucking into on Sunday (June 18th).

Chocolate Guinness Cake

One of Nigella Lawson’s most famous bakes is her chocolate Guinness cake, which she describes as having a “resonant, ferrous tang”.

Although it contains the stout, it is not bitter thanks to the high sugar content, and has a cream cheese frosting to look like the frothy head on a glass of Guinness.

Whether your dad is a big fan of stout or not, he is sure to enjoy this rich and decadent cake.

Dirt cake

If you and your dad have spent a lot of time in the garden, climbing trees or on muddy rugby pitches in the past, baking this dirt cake is a must.

Delish’s recipe is for a no-bake cream cheese pudding with an Oreo crust and crumbled biscuit on top.

Simply make a cheesecake biscuit base by crushing Oreos with melted butter and pressing this into a baking dish. The filling is made with vanilla pudding mix, milk, cream cheese, sugar and double cream.

Lastly, Oreos are crumbled on top for the ‘dirt’. Stick some toy footballs, worms or gardening tools in there for effect.

Ferrero Rocher cake

Another cake for chocolate fans is Jamie Oliver’s Ferrero Rocher cake, which Delicious magazine describes as being “so good it should be illegal”.

The cake replicated the much-loved Ferrero Rocher chocolate by having layers of chocolate fudge cake, roasted pralines, crushed cornflakes, and chocolate buttercream. It is finished with chocolate icing, and served with some Ferrero Rocher chocolates on top.

Though the recipe certainly sounds scrumptious, it looks rather complicated, so perhaps not one an amateur baker should try on a special occasion like Father’s Day.

Giant cookie cake

A much simpler recipe to try is BBC Good Food’s giant cookie cake . As long as your dad loves chocolate and chewy cookies, he’ll adore his baked treat.

To make the ‘cake’, simply beat butter, sugar, egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract together before adding flour, cornflour, and baking powder into the mixture. Then spread it out into a cake tin and cook for 20 or so minutes.

Once it is baked, leave to cool for five minutes before serving with vanilla ice cream.

Egg-free recipes

Some dads, of course, are vegan or egg-free, in which case, finding a cake they can eat is much harder.

You could always ask an eggless cake shop to bake a special treat for your father this weekend, so he can still enjoy something delicious to tuck into.

Getting a professional cake is also an excellent gift, so you don’t have to worry about dashing out to the shops to get a new pair of socks to wrap up for him instead.

How To Make A Wedding Cake All Your Guests Can Eat

Tue, 30 May 2023 07:51:08 GMT

Anyone planning to get married will know there is a huge long list of things to do; there are outfits to hire, invite lists to draw up, venues to be booked and stag/hen weekends to be enjoyed (or survived).

In the midst of all that, there will be some finer details to consider. Your wedding cake , like everything else anyone may eat at the reception, could potentially pose some issues. After all, there will be people who are vegetarians, vegans, or who have significant dietary issues such as allergies to eggs, nuts or gluten.

Your reception venue should be able to cater to this to an extent when it comes to meals at the wedding breakfast, but what about the cake itself?

Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do to tackle all these issues. By including a response on your invites to advise of any dietary requirements, you can establish just who among your guests - and how many - will not want to have a slice of wedding cake made in the normal way.

If there is a sufficiently large number, one way forward is to do something very smart with your cake. You could have the whole thing made egg-free, which will still be delicious and go unnoticed by those who normally eat a cake with eggs in.

Or, given traditional wedding cakes have three tiers, the smallest one on the top could be made this way to cater for those with particular culinary needs.

This move is a smart way of ensuring you can cater to everyone and not leave some of your guests feeling they are missing out when slices of wedding cake are being dished out.

In addition, it is important to consider that the last thing you want is someone getting unwell or worse on your big day. Dealing with allergies and food preferences at your wedding is not just consideration and good manners, but could prevent the day from being blighted by someone eating something they shouldn’t.

The Rise And Fall Of Britain’s Baking Saviour

Sun, 21 May 2023 07:56:28 GMT

It is difficult to conceive of what the British baking and culinary world would look like had the late Fanny Cradock not been a part of it.

Whilst she is most famous for inventing (or at least popularising) the prawn cocktail and introducing a post-war British audience to pizza and other Italian cuisines, her legacy in the world of baking cannot be understated either.

She would cook in dresses without wearing an apron and despite her frequent wearing of ball gowns on kitchen sets and very theatrical persona, her dishes were made to bring more exotic and expensive foods within the reaches of working-class families ruined in the aftershocks of the Second World War.

She would frequently recommend affordable substitutes which were far more available and affordable, inspiring the modern ingredient swaps that allowed for the eggfree cake recipes we have today. This was part of the reason why her cookbooks were successful for so long.

Mrs Cradock was an influential and inspiring figure, appearing in 24 cooking TV series, but it took one 50-minute episode for her reputation to collapse.

Do Not Meet Your Heroes

In 1976, Esther Rantzen produced and hosted a TV show known as The Big Time, which was a have-a-go documentary series where ordinary people and amateurs were given training and a chance to be part of a big, high-pressure event.

It led to the discovery of singer Sheena Easton, an infamous episode where a church organist became a professional wrestler and an amateur footballer played for Liverpool FC.

Even amongst this, the most infamous episode was when Devonshire housewife Gwen Troake was challenged to organise a banquet after winning a contest.

Mrs Cradock was one of several celebrity advisors along with Robert Morley and Magnus Pyke, but was heavily criticised for her condescending behaviour when advising Mrs Troake and her menu, making overly theatrical gestures and mockingly saying that the amateur chef was “among professionals now”.

She claimed to have no idea what a “bramble sauce” was, hated the idea of a sweet sauce mixed with duckling, claimed that the English never had a culinary tradition and convinced Mrs

Troake to replace her planned “sickly” coffee cream pudding with a fruit sorbet pastry boat, which ended up being a mess.

The public response to swift and incandescent, described by the Daily Telegraph as “such unified wrath” that had not been seen since 1940, with people feeling that her rudeness spoiled Mrs Troake’s moment.

Whilst Mrs Cradock would write an apologetic letter, the BBC cancelled her contract two weeks later and she would never take part in another cookery show again, whilst the infamous incident helped Mrs Troake publish a cookbook of her own inspired by traditional Devon cuisine.

After Mrs Cradock’s death in 1994, she left a mixed legacy, both as a pioneer that brought elaborate cuisine within reach of the average household during a time of financial strife, and a needlessly cruel and condescending chef that showcased contempt for the people who admired her most.

Only Five Per Cent Of Children’s Birthday Cakes Are Egg Free

Sun, 14 May 2023 08:02:47 GMT

Parents with children who have a food allergy or intolerance know how difficult it can be to find foods that will be safe for their little one to eat. However, recent research has shown just five per cent of children’s birthday cakes are gluten- or egg-free.

This means mums and dads who want to celebrate their kid’s special day may find it incredibly hard to find a cake their youngster can eat, so they can enjoy the same treat everyone else would normally have on their birthday.

Findings from food intolerance specialist YorkTest showed 28 per cent of cakes from UK supermarkets were free of at least one allergen. However, this dropped dramatically when it came to being eggless or gluten-free.

They showed 40 per cent of these cakes were nut-free, compared with just four per cent being made without any gluten ingredients. When it came to the five biggest supermarkets in the UK, there were only three egg-free cakes. In comparison, there were 26 nut-free ones.

This is despite almost ten per cent of children suffering from a gluten intolerance or coeliac disease in the UK, which means there is always likely to be a couple at any kid’s party.

A recent BBC report found seven per cent of youngsters have a food allergy, yet 80 per cent of parents have “significant worry” about their little one’s allergies, as avoiding allergens can be a constant concern.

Sal Hanvey, expert nutritionist at YorkTest, stated: “Birthday cakes are a core memory from most of our childhood birthday parties and with most of them featuring our favourite cartoon characters at the time, it’s not hard to see why.”

However, she noted that most of these contain common allergens, despite there nearly always being a child at every birthday party who needs to avoid some of these foods.

“Not only does this cause severe anxiety for the parent, but it can also take weeks or months to get tested,” Ms Hanvey stated, meaning several children will miss out on cakes as their parents will play it cautious and avoid certain food groups just in case they have an allergy or intolerance.

Signs of an egg allergy include difficulty breathing, tongue swelling, tightness of the throat, a hoarse voice, persistent cough, dizziness, swelling of lips, face or eyes, hives, a tingling mouth, abdominal pain, paleness or vomiting.

While some people are able to handle eggs that have been baked into products, such as cakes, some still have to avoid these as their bodies cannot tolerate it.

Of course, those with an egg allergy also need to avoid pastries, mayonnaise, quiches, some ice-creams, pancakes, waffles, hollandaise, fresh pasta, meringues, marzipan, marshmallows, and some processed meat, such as meatballs.

Finding a baker that can make delicious egg-free birthday cakes is, therefore, ideal for parents with children who have egg allergies. They can choose from a variety of styles and can be confident it will be safe for them to eat.

Are Eggs Really Necessary For A Delicious And Fluffy Cake?

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 06:00:04 GMT

Most recipes you find for cake, no matter the type or flavour, will call for eggs. But are eggs necessary to make a delicious, soft and fluffy cake or are there other alternatives that work just as well?

Eggs are used in cake recipes in order to help emulsify the mixture, allowing all the ingredients to combine smoothly, as well as helping to give it a nice texture and structure. If you completely remove the eggs, cakes would crumble and easily fall apart.

However, eggs aren’t the only ingredient you can use to do this. There are many alternatives to eggs which can help to hold your mixture together and improve your cake's structure meaning you can still make a delicious, egg free cake .

Some egg alternatives will work better than others, so trying different ones until you find something which works for you is a good idea. Most of these substitutes can be easily picked up from any supermarket, so they are all accessible and easy to find.

One substitute for eggs in baking is applesauce. Applesauce has a thick, sticky texture which helps to combine all the ingredients, thicken your cake mixture, and help make your cake slightly more dense, preventing it from crumbling and falling apart.

You can buy sweetened or unsweetened applesauce, using a sweet apple sauce will mean you may have to adjust the amount of sugar in your mixture, so the cake isn’t too sweet and sickly.

Another great alternative is flaxseed. Ground flaxseed can be mixed with water and left to set to become a thick, gelatinous and sticky mixture. The texture is similar to egg white, making it a great alternative.

Flaxseed can add a slight earthy, nutty taste so this is something to be aware of when using flaxseed. It may also slightly change the texture of your cake, experimenting with the amount used can help you find the perfect mixture.

Another alternative is silken tofu. This can be blended and added to your mixture, however, it can make your cake very dense and is, therefore, best for baked goods which are already heavy.

Why A Sad Cake Is A Delightful Eggfree Treat | Cake Inn

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 08:42:00 GMT

The word “sad” should not be in such close proximity to the word cake, as it is very rare that an eggfree cake will make people sad in the slightest.

In fact, it is telling of the ways in which baking can put a smile on your face that even a cake known as a “Sad Cake” can still put a smile on your face, providing you like currants, raisins or sultanas.

In this context, “sad” does not mean unhappy, but instead is a word in an old Leeds dialect that simply describes a cake that has failed to rise, whether unintentionally or intentionally, as is the case here.

The sad cake is similar to other flat cakes such as the flaky Eccles cake or fruity Chorley cake, with the main difference being that it is rolled flatter to the point that currents show through on the other side.

Like a lot of cakes that originate from the north of England, they are typically either baked alongside other parts of a meal or baked over a fire in a frying pan.

It is an inherently egg-free bake and can be made without either butter or eggs if you opt for substitutes and use the right recipe.

It is typically made to use up the leftover pastry from a larger meal such as a pie or pudding and can be as big or small as you want them to be, although most recipes call for a seven-inch diameter cake that is half an inch thick to ensure the currants poke through.

Amazingly, there is another type of sad cake made with vanilla extract, pecans and biscuit baking mix that is so named because it sinks rather than rises during baking, leading to a sweet, moist and delicious traybake to try if attempts to make a souffle did not go as planned.

Fun Ideas Of What To Do With Spare Chocolate Easter Eggs

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 06:30:38 GMT

Even if you tried to avoid buying copious amounts of chocolate for Easter, chances are you are now left with boxes of eggs. Short of eating them all in a sugar binge, you might not know what to do with the excess chocolate, which is why we’re here to help.

Here are some tips on how to use up your chocolate eggs so they don’t go to waste.

Cheesecake-filled Easter eggs

Cheesecake-filled Easter eggs is perhaps the biggest trend of the season, with loads of people transforming their chocolate egg into this delicious dessert.

All you need to do is split the egg in half lengthways using a knife that has been dipped in hot water, as this avoids cracking the chocolate. Then it’s time to make the cheesecake by crushing digestive biscuits and mixing it with melted butter.

Press this into the egg halves and leave in the fridge to chill. For the filling, mix mascarpone, soft cheese, icing sugar and cocoa before folding in whipped cream, and spooning these on top of the biscuit base. Leave to set in the fridge and cover with a topping of your choice.

Fruit dipped chocolate

If you want to encourage your children to eat more fruit, this is the perfect way to do so. Simply melt the chocolate, and dip fruit kebabs into the mixture. You could use any fruit, but strawberries, bananas, pears and apples work particularly well.

Enjoy straight away or leave to set in the fridge for the chocolate to harden.

Chocolate bark

An easy no-bake recipe is to make chocolate bark with your leftover Easter eggs. Simply break the chocolate into a bowl and melt.

Then pour the mixture on to a greased baking tray and spread it to make a rectangle. Then scatter toppings of your choice, from smashed mini eggs to freeze-dried raspberry pieces, chocolate balls to puffed rice cereal.

Set in the fridge and break into large shards once it has cooled.

There are many more ideas for eggfree cakes and treats you can make with leftover Easter chocolate - that is, if you haven’t already eaten it all!

Make An Egg-Free Eurovision Song Contest Cake

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 06:50:06 GMT

After Britain came runners-up to Ukraine in last year’s Eurovision Song Contest, the UK was chosen as the best place to host it given the ongoing situation in places like Kiev. But for people unable to get tickets for the event itself in Liverpool, the evening may be a familiar one with the annual Eurovision party held in someone’s house.

While British fans will hope Mae Muller goes one better with ‘ I Wrote a Song ’, the reality is that however well or badly our song does, it should be a fun evening of varied musical quality, some bizarre outfits and very pithy comments from Graham Norton.

Like any party, there will be plenty of food and drink, but what better time to get an eggless cake made for the occasion? This will ensure anyone with a food allergy to them will still be able to enjoy it. Indeed, through such kindness might ‘love shine a light’, as it did when the UK last won way back in 1997 .

How you want us to decorate the cake is another matter of course; it could feature Conchita’s beard, Lordi’s monster masks and bat wings, or simply the classic image of ABBA as they won with Waterloo. Any Irish fans present might want to see two-time winner Jonny Logan, but definitely not Jedward.

Ultimately, Eurovision is all about everyone being included and having a great time (apart from the Russians, of course), which means that everyone at the party should be able to enjoy all the food there. You might also have some European themed dishes and drinks from different countries, but none of that will beat having that very special cake.

There may be one thing that looks like an egg, though: The number 0. Let us just hope that after Sam Ryder’s fine performance last year the days of ‘nul points’ for Britain are firmly behind us.

Go Egg-Free This Easter With These Delicious Occasion Cakes

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 08:49:13 GMT

Easter eggs might be everywhere we look at the moment, but you don’t need to be tucking into eggs to enjoy a delicious treat this Easter. In fact, you can ditch your chocolate, and chicken, eggs entirely with these tasty recipes.

Simnel cake

Simnel is the traditional cake of Easter, featuring 11 marzipan apostles on top of a light fruit cake. The great thing is, you don’t need to include eggs in this recipe, as there is a great vegan version of the recipe you could try.

The Vegan Recipe Club makes a simnel cake with mixed peel, sultanas or raisins, flour, light brown sugar, nutmeg and ground cloves, plant-based milk, vegetable oil, aquafaba, and a flax ‘egg’ made with finely ground flaxseeds.

The marzipan, which is used to decorate the top of the cake, is made with ground almonds, agave or maple syrup, chopped almonds and plant-based milk.

Fun bunny cake

If you want to bake an egg-free cake for your children to enjoy this Easter, this one from All Recipes is a good bet. The chocolate-flavoured cake doesn’t have any milk in it, which is great for kids who are lactose intolerant.

Instead, it is simply made using flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, vegetable oil, vinegar and vanilla.

Parents can turn it into a bunny by cutting ears and a face from the cake and using desiccated coconut for the fur.

Vegan Easter cheesecake

The great thing about Easter is there is a huge choice of different cakes, and one you must try making is a vegan triple-layer cheesecake .

Firstly, make the base by putting almonds, cashews, dates, cocoa powder, and coconut oil in a food processor until it is sticky and press it into a cake tin.

The next two layers comprise various quantities of cashews, coconut milk, maple syrup, coconut oil and cocoa powder. Then the cake, once it has been put in the freezer to harden, is covered with melted dark chocolate and chocolate eggs.

“This decadently rich vegan Easter cheesecake is a chocolate lover’s dream!” Vegan Food and Living claim.

Chocolate fudge Easter cake

You’d never know this fudgy chocolate cake was made with beetroot, coconut oil and chilli powder, and covered in a frosting of avocados and maple syrup!

To top it off (literally), it is decorated with vegan dark chocolate, shredded wheat, and vegan marzipan, though you can use animal products instead if you want.

This cake is labour intensive, but it will certainly surprise guests when you tell them what they’re really eating - especially if you have fussy kids!

Of course, baking a cake for Easter is a big demand, particularly if you are having lots of family and friends round for lunch and you need to give everyone a generous slice. In this case, it is worth ordering an eggfree cake that can feed everyone and means you only have to worry about cooking dinner.

Treat Your Mum With Plenty Of Yummy Cake This Mother’s Day

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 06:21:19 GMT

Getting something special for your mum on Mother’s Day seems to get trickier every year. They’ve been given all the mugs, they have a household of flowers, and they don’t need another candle - so what is left to give them to really show them how much you appreciate what they do?

One of the best ways to spoil your mum is with a delicious cake, so take a look at our pick of scrumptious bakes she won’t be able to resist this Sunday (March 19th).

Red velvet cake

The red velvet cake is a truly indulgent treat, made with cocoa powder, buttermilk and vinegar, which gives it that moist, velvety texture.

You could choose a special eggless red velvet celebration cake , decorated with beautiful buttercream piping and chocolate features. Complete the look with juicy strawberries or even pretty red roses and a personalised message on top and watch her heart melt away.

Milk and cookies cake

Let her indulge her sweet tooth by giving her a milk and cookies cake made with chocolate chips and covered in condensed milk buttercream frosting.

Delish hails it as the “perfect celebration cake for the cookie lover in your life”.

Raspberry cream cheese coffee cake

How many years has your mum had to sacrifice her favourite baked treats because the kids wanted chocolate cake or plain Victoria sponge? Well, now’s the time to give her exactly what she wants for her afternoon bake.

And something we think she’ll love is a raspberry cream cheese coffee cake , packed with lots of ingredients fussy kids will refuse. Despite its name, this deliciously moist cake has no coffee in it, but derives its flavour from the sour cream, almond extract and light brown sugar ingredients and cream cheese and raspberry fillings. It also has a deliciously crunchy streusel topping made from cinnamon, flour, butter and sugar.

Gin and tonic cake

If your mum is a fan of a G&T, spoil her with a gin and tonic cake . According to Olive magazine, this is a “boozy twist on a lemon drizzle cake”.

Consisting of lemon yoghurt, golden caster sugar, gin and lemons, and soaked in lemon, juniper berry and gin and tonic syrup, this is a deliciously moist cake enjoyed best with a cup of tea.

“Gin and tonic syrup is then drizzled over the top to sink into the cake for a show-stopping celebration cake for all of your G&T fans,” the publication states.

Chocolate almond cake with amaretto cream

For another boozy cake your mum’s bound to love, try this chocolate almond cake with amaretto cream on top.

This cake is brought to life with ground almonds, dark melted chocolate, and a kick of coffee. Top with generous helpings of double cream whisked with amaretto.

Olive magazine describes this treat as “pure indulgence”, which is nothing less than what your mum deserves this Mother’s Day.

What Quirky Alternative Wedding Cake Ideas Are There?

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 08:43:28 GMT

Cake has to be the best part of any wedding, aside from the obvious joyous occasion of two people getting married, the cake definitely tops all else. Traditional cakes are beautiful, however, sometimes a wedding will call for a more fun, quirky option.

White fondant, icing toppers and beautiful piping are all typical of a wedding cake , but there is no rulebook on what is and isn’t acceptable. You may wish to add some more flare to your cake to ensure it fits the theme of your wedding and leaves guests in awe.

One popular choice that strays from tradition is a naked cake. These cakes aren’t iced and are usually layers so that the inside of the cake is visible. This means any fillings such as jam, fruit and buttercream can be seen as the cake lacks the traditional fondant covering.

They are usually dressed up with flowers or foliage and are a great touch to any boho or beachy wedding. They can also be intricately decorated to fit a more formal setting while still being different and unique.

Cupcake towers are another great choice. Many people choose to stack an array of cupcakes in various flavours, colours and decorations to create an incredibly tasty and beautiful pyramid of cake.

This is a great choice for those wanting something fun and easy. Guests can simply help themselves to an individual cupcake, with no need for cutting and portioning. The cake is ready to go and still looks incredible.

Similarly, cake pops are another fun and quirky choice. These are unique as they can be designed and decorated to be almost anything you desire. Some people may opt to serve these alongside a more traditional cake as a fun added extra.

There are several designs that can be made for those wanting a traditional cake that has an untraditional edge to it.

Geode cakes are absolutely stunning and can be made to fit almost any colour scheme. A chunk of the cake is cut out and decorated to look like the dazzling gemstone inside of a geode.

This is perfect for those wanting something original and unique that works to be a centrepiece. Guests will be able to admire the beauty and craftsmanship of the cake and probably won't stop talking about it for weeks!

Some also choose to ditch the cake entirely, which can be disappointing for us sponge lovers, but definitely makes a statement.

Donut cakes, profiterole towers and stacked pancakes are all interesting and fun alternatives to a traditional cake that are equally as sweet and delicious.

Stacked cheese rounds are a popular choice and are an excellent option for those who don’t have a sweet tooth. This can also be used as a great snack for guests to enjoy all night long.

Pairing your cheese-cake with an assortment of crackers, chutneys, fruit and veg is a lovely way to create a snacking table that guests can enjoy throughout your event and ensures everyone can get a taste of your not-cake.

3 All-Purpose Eggless Cakes For Any Occasion

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 15:45:14 GMT

Whether you are browsing a cake shop for the perfect celebratory treat or exploring an almost limitless number of recipes for incredible cakes, it can sometimes be difficult to think of the perfect cake to make.

If you are someone who cannot stand choice anxiety , sometimes the best solution is to always have a set of go-to cakes that work a treat for any occasion, from birthdays to graduations to night-in delights.

Here are some simple, egg-free options that you do not need a reason to bake.

Victoria Sponge Cake

Lighter than air, with a delightful dairy-free buttercream and jam in the centre, the Victoria Sponge is a Bake-Off favourite for a reason.

It is simple to make, delightful to taste and with enough room to make adjustments that every ingredient can be swapped for a vegan alternative, from eggs to milk to butter.

It is one of Britain’s most popular cakes for a reason, and the more you make it, the better your technique will be to make a light, fluffy sponge.

Chocolate Brownies

By contrast, if you want an incredible cake recipe that people cannot get enough of but does not rely on a lot of ingredient swaps, chocolate brownies are as close to perfect as a cake gets.

Light on preparation, can be made as a traybake so there are plenty left over to enjoy through the week, and oozing with rich, gooey dark chocolate and not reliant on any expensive ingredients, chocolate brownies are one of those bakes you can return to again and again.

Carrot Cake

There will inevitably be people who do not have quite as sweet a tooth as the rest of us, but a zesty, slightly spicy carrot cake is the indulgent treat that will make them come back for another slice, and also works as a great introduction to egg-free baking.

How An Italian General Named A Teatime Biscuit | Cake Inn

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 18:30:03 GMT

Inspiration for the different types of confections available at a cake shop can come from many different places, from the place it came from, a place the cake reminds people of or even a satirical French play.

However, one of the strangest reasons for the naming of a biscuit, cake or sweet might possibly be an Italian military general who once visited the coastal town of South Shields on the North East coast of England.

The story of the Garibaldi biscuit, therefore, is somewhat unusual despite the biscuit itself largely resembling other current cakes such as the Chorley cake or Eccles cake with its mix of crunchy dough and pressed current filling, and it does start with a man who would certainly deserve to be commemorated with a biscuit.

The namesake of the biscuit is Giuseppe Garibaldi , who was born in Nice in 1807 before it was taken over by the Kingdom of Sardinia in 1814, which ruled large parts of what is now Northern Italy.

The experience of effectively having his nationality changed via conquest motivated him towards a seemingly impossible goal: the unification of Italy.

He became a sea captain and joined the Young Italy movement, although their initial attempts to unite Italy failed and he fled to Uruguay and later Brazil, being part of liberation movements in both countries.

This, partly with the help of fellow Young Italian Giuseppe Mazzini, made him a revolutionary hero, although was once again forced to flee after a perilous battle in Rome, one which would cost the life of his South American revolutionary wife Anita.

His 1855 visit to South Shields would preempt a final, successful campaign to form the Kingdom of Italy in 1861, and in that very same year, Jonathan Carr would create the Garibaldi biscuit to commemorate his victory with the help of company Peek Freans.

Whilst now known under multiple names and in various guises, it endures as one of the strangest names for a biscuit available in the baking world.

Is A Souffle Really That Hard To Make?

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 09:05:05 GMT

There are certain cakes you find in patisseries and cake shops that have a reputation behind them, such as the delicate colourful beauty of macarons or the technical complexity behind the Baked Alaska.

However, one dish, in particular, is seen as the ultimate test for a chef and that is the souffle , a rising baked cake that traditionally relied on eggs and absolute perfection.

Ironically enough, what makes them so difficult to make using eggs is not an issue when making them using egg-free substitutes, but to explain why we need to explain what makes a soufflé so difficult to make given the relative simplicity of the dish.

A souffle has two main parts; there is the base, which is typically a fairly thick pastry cream on top of which the egg white (or substitute) sits, with the protein in the egg whites traditionally creating the characteristic fluffy puff that rises once it is taken out of the oven.

However, a lot of problems can occur that ruin this rise. If the egg whites are not mixed enough, they will be too heavy to rise, but if they are over-whipped they will collapse in the oven.

Finally, and most problematically, any cross-contamination between yolks and whites will cause the whole concoction to collapse, which is the bane of many dessert chefs’ days.

This is why a vegan souffle without eggs or using egg substitutes is far easier although still quite difficult to make; without the worries of cross-contamination, you can focus more on whisking and folding the mix into the pastry cream.

Once you do this and cook the souffle for the right amount of time and get that delightful rise whilst in the oven, you have around ten minutes from when the souffle exits the oven before it will naturally collapse regardless.

It is often seen as one of the greatest challenges for chefs and it is not difficult to see why.

What Were The Most Popular Themed Cakes For Kids In 2022?

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 08:58:37 GMT

A lot of thought goes into choosing a children’s birthday cake, with parents wanting to get the perfect design their little one will love and remember for years to come. Here, we look back on what the most popular themed cakes were for youngsters last year, with some of the hottest designs likely to remain en vogue in 2023.

Frozen Cake

It’s been almost ten years since Frozen was released but that doesn’t stop the Disney movie from capturing the imaginations of children everywhere. As a result, Frozen-themed cakes remain among the most-asked for designs, particularly for little girls.

Ideas for this type of cake vary from having an Elsa princess doll sticking out of the centre, with the cake as her ‘skirt’, to a 3D model of everyone’s favourite character Olaf.

Cocomelon

Cocomelon has become such a huge hit among toddlers that it was in high demand last year.

Main character JJ featured at many birthday parties around the country, and is likely to do so again this year.

Fortnite

Fortnite has definitely become the game for the younger generation, which is why so many kids chose it for their cake theme last year. The deep blue and black lend themselves to a striking design, while a cake in the shape of a games console easily fits into the theme too.

Encanto

There’s no doubt about it, Encanto was the film of 2022, so it’s no surprise lots of little girls and boys opted for a Mirabel-inspired party last year.
The vibrant Colombian colours, the magical ‘Casa Madrigal’, the tropical flowers, and fun and unique characters mean there was lots of choice when it came to cake design, and each of them were as exciting as the next.

If you’re looking for a professional celebration cake for your little one this year, give us a call and see whether we can create a design they’d love.

The History Of The First-Ever Scientific Dessert | Cake Inn

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 06:34:55 GMT

When people discuss the most complex and difficult dishes to make, the Baked Alaska will often come to mind.

Whether in its original form as a vegan alternative with eggfree cake , the Baked Alaska, with its mix of sponge, ice cream and meringue, is an astonishingly tricky dessert to make.

It requires a fine balance when putting the dessert in the oven, as it needs to be in long enough to firm the meringue and scorch the edges but not too long, as then the ice cream will melt and the whole dessert will collapse.

It was initially described as a “scientific” dessert by its creator, the chef of the Grand Hotel in Paris in 1867. He wanted to create a dish inspired by a discovery by Bavarian scientist Benjamin Thompson on the low thermal conductivity of egg whites before the discovery of vegan alternatives.

Oddly, its first name was not the Baked Alaska but it was instead called a Norwegian omelette. Whilst the name is fitting in its own right, this turned out to be the result of a misconception; the chef thought Bavaria was in Norway (it is in South East Germany).

The Baked Alaska name came nearly a decade later, as the restaurant Delmonico’s in New York City created the now-signature dish to commemorate Alaska becoming a part of the United States after previously being part of the Russian Empire.

There is also a variation, the Bombe Alaska, which has dark rum dripped all over it before being set alight, creating quite a spectacle that is often taken to the diner whilst still awash with a blue flame.

Interestingly, scientist Nicholas Kurti would try to create a reverse Alaska (or ‘Frozen Florida’), which was a frozen meringue shell with a molten ball of liquor inside it using a microwave oven, a dessert that managed to be hot on the inside and freezing on the outside.

Top Tips For A Perfect Rainbow Layer Cake | Cake Inn

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 09:41:45 GMT

When it comes to complex celebration cakes , few look as much of a challenge as the layer cake, in part because of the many different pieces that go into their construction.

In practice, however, despite how complex they look with multiple layers and often quite elaborate icing, if you break it down to its core, all of the elements, from the multi-coloured sponge cake to the thick cream cheese or buttercream that holds it together.

Here are some top tips to make a perfect rainbow layer cake.

Get The Right Tools

To make layering a cake easier and to ensure a perfectly even frosting, you may need to add a couple of extra tools to your baking repertoire.

Whilst a cake turntable is typically used for displays, here you need it to ensure an even frost on each side. As well as this, you need a bench scraper and offset spatula to do the frosting, a cake board to ensure it is the right size, and a good serrated knife to cut off the doming on a cake.

Thicker Icing Is Better

The best way to ensure that your cake will hold together perfectly is to use particularly thick icing. Buttercream (icing sugar and butter), cream cheese or vegan variations of both are ideal for this and will ensure the cake remains delightfully moist.

Use The Toothpick Trick

As you are cooking each thin layer separately, they will cook through quicker than normal, so keep an eye on the clock and periodically prod at the cake with cocktail sticks, taking the cakes out of the oven when they come out clean.

Keep The Layers Even

Use a cake leveller to keep the cake layers level and stable, and make sure to use the offset spatula to spread the filling evenly on each layer.

What Are The Alternatives To Christmas Cake? | Cake Inn

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 09:34:17 GMT

There are few celebration cakes that seem to divide opinion more than the traditional Christmas cake.

Part of this is that whilst even more divisive festive sweets such as the stodgy Christmas pudding can be enjoyed by some and largely ignored by others, Christmas fruit cakes are more likely to be an expected part of the season and are harder to avoid.

However, the most important part of Christmas is that it is personal, and if you do not necessarily enjoy the rich fruit cake and its acres of icing, there are a wealth of alternative cakes that are egg-free and well worth trying.

Why Do We Eat Christmas Cake?

Having a cake of some kind at Christmas dates back to at least 1573, although it would take until the Victorian age of the mid-19th century for it to ultimately supplant other popular and somewhat unusual desserts.

The first pudding traditionally served at Christmas was plum pottage , made with a wide mix of sweet ingredients, spices, beef shin, tongue and stock, creating a somewhat unusual broth that thickened and set into a sort of jelly that would last a long time due to the alcohol used in its creation.

As well as this, as Christmas was often celebrated all the way up to the Epiphany, the Twelfth Night cake was the final indulgent culmination, with a pea and a bean determining the King and Queen of the feast

By the Victorian era, plum pottage has been superseded by the meatless Christmas pudding, the Epiphany was rarely celebrated, and the fruitcake had taken over as the Christmas cake of choice, with marzipan and icing on top to give it extra depth.

However, much like plum pottage and Christmas puds, the alcohol in their mixture means they last a long time, which was important in an age before cold larders and fridges.

Yule Log

A chocolate Swiss Roll with log-shaped chocolate icing, the Yule log has for a very long time been a great accompanier to the Christmas cake, but given it can be made egg free, is inherently lighter and tastes so wonderfully rich, it could be time to make it the main event.

There are a lot of ways to make both the sponge and the ganache filling, so feel free to experiment to find the style that suits you best, and top it off with a dusting of icing sugar, and cherries to complete the festive look.

Stollen

In the early days of Christmas being celebrated, the central “cake” was more of a fruity bread. If you want to try something similarly light and unique, then the traditional German Stollen provides all of the brandy-soaked fruity tastes without the heaviness of a Christmas cake.

Christmas Brownies

Everybody loves brownies , being so lovingly rich, with a texture that melts in your mouth. Best of all, they can be turned into a festive alternative by adding some currents, sultanas and glace cherries into your brownie mix.

Once you have your brownies, dust them with some icing sugar to create a winter wonderland.

The Most Difficult Cakes To Make

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:38:45 GMT

What makes baking such a unique culinary art compared to the rest is how much importance is placed on preparation and anticipation.

When making celebration cakes , whilst there will be some work at the end to prepare icing, fondant, decorations and other accoutrements, the vast majority of the work a baker does is in preparing and mixing ingredients. Once it is in the oven, all they can do is wait and anticipate.

This makes baking shows like the venerable Great British Bake Off so compelling; once the complex bakes are in the oven, all that is left is nail-biting anticipation, and the more complex the cake, the more that tension grows.

With that in mind here are some of the most difficult cake recipes to make.

Baked Alaska

It may be appropriate to start with the cake that stirred up Bake Off’s infamous “Bingate” controversy when talking about exceptionally difficult and complex cakes to make.

The recipe starts with making a completely different sponge cake that is topped with ice cream and meringue that is promptly set on fire for long enough for the latter to firm and brown but without melting the former.

The best way to do it without pulling your hair out is to bake the cake the day before and then prepare the ice cream and meringue the day after.

Macarons

Also known as a French, part of the difficulty is whipping up the aquafaba (or other egg white substitute) in just the perfect way to create that light, smooth shiny shell.

It is a delicate, difficult dish , but because of how obvious a skill showcase it is, always becomes a winner for parties and celebrations.

Baumkuchen

Also known as “log cake” in German, Baumkuchen is not the most complex dish to make, but it is amongst the most labour-intensive. To make the perfect Baumkuchen , layers of batter need to be evenly roasted on a spit and completely browned before the next layer is added.

This is a process that can take up to four hours of non-stop baking, spinning and adding layers.

Is It Too Late To Bake A Christmas Cake?

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Thu, 24 Nov 2022 10:18:37 GMT

Is It Too Late To Bake A Christmas Cake?

Although Christmas is still a few weeks away, it might actually be too late for some festive activities – including baking a Christmas cake.

According to self-professed ‘domestic goddess’ Nigella Lawson , the best time to make a Christmas cake is up to three months ahead of December 25th.

However, she notes this is “an issue of personal taste”, and rich fruit cakes can be frozen for a year, so you could even bake it on Boxing Day for next Christmas if you wish, or you should equally be ok just a few weeks in advance.

The reason why they are traditionally baked so early is so the fruit mixture can mature in the tin and be ‘fed’ with alcohol before it is enjoyed during the festive season. Therefore, the longer you are able to do this, the richer and more delicious it will be.

Of course, some people like to eat their Christmas cake in the run-up to the big day, in which case, the earlier they bake, the better. However, if you have a tradition of cutting into the masterpiece only after Santa has been and gone, you are in less of a rush to get it done.

Before you get carried away, remember you shouldn’t ice the cake until closer to eating it. Not only will this make it harder to ‘feed’ the cake with your chosen alcohol, but the icing itself will harden and not taste its best.

Icing can be done about a week in advance, giving you enough time to show off your cake decorating skills before cutting into it.

Not everyone loves fruit cake, however, so if you want an alternative, take a look at our delicious celebration cakes here.

Where Did The Phrase “Let Them Eat Cake” Come From?

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 16:22:58 GMT

Because the celebration cake is an almost universally beloved treat, there are so many sayings, quotations and turns of phrase that refer to cakes.

One of the most fascinating of these in terms of both what it means and the often-muddled history behind it is “let them eat cake”.

It is commonly ascribed to Marie Antoinette, particularly in an article by writer Alphonse Karr in the news journal Les Guepes (The Wasps), where in 1789 during one of many famines during the reign of her husband King Louis XVI of France, she stated upon hearing that the peasants of France have no bread, “let them eat brioche”.

The idea behind the quote is that it highlighted how out of touch Mrs Antoinette was, as brioche (sometimes written as cake) was a sweet luxury food that peasants were even less likely to have than bread, highlighting either a delusional or callous disregard for the plight of starving people.

It became a phrase that would be the spark that lit the flames of the French Revolution,

It is commonly used today with that meaning. However, not only did Marie Antoinette not coin the term, she couldn’t have done so.

The first known appearance of the phrase is in The Confessions , a series of autobiographies by philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, where he ascribed the phrase to a “great princess”.

The books were published in 1782, which may in part be the reason why people believed she had said it. However, The Confessions were written in 1765, when Marie Antoinette was nine years old, lived in Austria and was completely unknown to almost everyone living in France.

As well as this, letters and accounts from her not published in support of the French Revolution highlight that she was moved by the plight of the poor, and felt obliged to work hard for people who treat the King and herself well despite their own struggles.

Others have ascribed it to King Louis XIV’s wife Maria Theresa of Spain or simply claimed that Mr Rousseau made it up.

In any case, it has since become one of the most fascinating cake-based phrases ever uttered.

How Necessity Is The Inventor Of Carrot Cake

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 13:37:08 GMT

There is a familiar expression that the mother of invention is in fact necessity, and nowhere is this more true than in the fascinating story of the rise, fall and rise again of the carrot cake.

A dense, spiced dessert perfectly suited to be made as an eggfree cake in the autumnal months , carrot cake does indeed have carrots mixed into the batter and is often served with a variety of nuts, lemon and cinnamon to add that distinctive spicy flavour to it.

Exactly where carrot cake initially came from is disputed, and is believed to have originated from a Middle Ages savoury carrot pudding that itself has been traced back to the tenth century.

The Annals of the Caliphs’ Kitchens is the earliest known cookbook in Arabic and T’Khabis al-jazar, the carrot pudding described in it, is primarily made from carrots, honey and nut oils that are boiled together until it creates a thick, firm mixture.

In Western Europe, similar carrot puddings were made in a very similar way to a cake but were eaten as both a savoury and a dessert.

The reason for this is that whilst sweeteners and fruits were quite expensive, root vegetables such as carrots could be bought cheaply or farmed efficiently.

The carrot cake we know was originally published in L’art du cuisinier’s second volume by Antoine Beauvilliers in 1814 in French before that recipe was translated in 1824.

It would later see its biggest resurgence in popularity during the Second World War for very similar reasons. The United Kingdom would see an intense regime of rationing, where nearly every ingredient used for cakes was heavily restricted.

This led to a campaign known as Dig for Victory, where people were encouraged to cultivate gardens and grow as much of their own food as they can.

This led to the revival of the carrot cake, as it was often easier to acquire and could supplement the limited other ingredients such as sugar and butter.

A survey of the most popular cakes by region had carrot cake be Wales’ favourite bake, showing the enduring appeal of a very unorthodox dessert.

The Strangest And Most Unique Cakes And Desserts

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Sat, 22 Oct 2022 15:19:45 GMT

One of the best parts of making a celebration cake is that there are not too many rules to follow besides ensuring that the person or people celebrating enjoy the bake.

Unlike a Christmas Cake , where a certain type of cake is expected, birthdays and other celebrations can be commemorated with practically any type of cake, which sometimes leads to some fairly unusual dessert ideas.

Here are some of the oddest and most fascinating.

Mizu Shingen Mocha

Better known as the Japanese Water Cake, this giant water droplet of a cake not only looks surreal but only lasts half an hour before it disintegrates into a puddle.

A variation on the better-known rice cake Shingen Mochi , it is created from slightly solidified water and has a very unique taste thanks to the Ojira River water used to make it.

Salad Cake

If you lived through the 1970s or have ever thumbed through an old cookbook, you might be aware of salad jelly , a bizarre and somewhat controversial savoury dish made with vegetables and fruit-flavoured jelly.

The salad cake is a variation of this idea, blending soybean flour and whole vegetables to create a cake texture, topped with the same kind of cream cheese frosting that commonly adorns the tops of carrot cakes.

Unlike a carrot cake, however, a salad cake contains no sugar, is gluten free and is also low in carbohydrates depending on the topping used.

Tomato Soup Cake

Popularised by the author Sylvia Plath, the tomato soup cake was first printed in 1922, and much like the carrot cake was a bake born out of necessity; with the Great Depression and rationing causing more common cake ingredients to be scarce, families made do with what they had.

The result is a spicy cake similar to carrot cake, complete with a dark, moist soft texture and packed with cloves, raisins and cinnamon.

Bake Off Is Back!

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 10:19:51 GMT

We all need a bit of good news this week after what has been quite a tumultuous few days for us all… and what could be a better pick-me-up than the return of everyone’s favourite show, The Great British Bake Off!

The series starts tonight (September 13th), so rolling pins at the ready! We know you’re all excited to start baking along with this year’s contestants and we’re sure to see some incredible creations over the coming weeks.

Heading to the Bake Off tent this year are a really interesting range of baking enthusiasts, including a nuclear scientist, an electronics engineer, a music teacher and a former charity director.

We’re really looking forward to seeing what bakes they come up with and, of course, we’re hoping to see some vegetarian and vegan bakes take centre stage, as well. As we all know, you don’t need eggs to bake a cake and it’s always fascinating to see how alternative ingredients can be used to wonderful effect.

Who knows? It could inspire you to hit the kitchen and try baking your own egg-free cakes this autumn. And with the weather closing in and the nights growing darker, what better time than right now to think about trying your hand at a bit of baking here and there?

Judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood are back with a vengeance once again this year, as are Noel Fielding and Matt Lucas, so it promises to be a fun and raucous affair… as it is each and every year, of course!

If you have no plans to get the mixing bowls out but still want to enjoy the show with cake in hand, what about stocking up on some eggless cakes? You’re sure to love our range, so check out what we’ve got in stock today .

Why Do We Put Candles On Birthday Cakes?

rlinks@hotmail.co.uk (Mohammed Rizwan) — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 16:19:13 GMT

One of the most popular traditions for birthday celebration cakes is to put lit candles on the top of the cake, make a wish and blow them out.

This is almost as common a tradition as birthday cakes themselves, but answering the question as to why we place candles on cakes is surprisingly difficult to find out, although several different theories may provide some clarity on the candle conundrum.

There have been birthday celebrations since the earliest civilisations, but the first civilisation to serve ‘cakes’ (in practice they were flatbreads sweetened with honey) was the Ancient Romans , who also celebrated weddings in a similar hedonistic way.

Around the same time, the Ancient Greeks had a tradition of using candles as part of a celebration of the birth of Artemis, the goddess of fertility, and it is possible that after the Romans conquered the Greeks that this tradition intermingled with the Roman birthday.

However, no evidence has emerged of candles being used with Roman cakes and given that the latter tended to be flat circles of bread sprinkled with nuts and honey, it would appear to be unlikely.

Another similar tradition happened in some pagan traditions who believed that evil spirits would attempt to visit people on their birthday and the way to counteract it was to surround a person with joy, noise and light, hence the candles, singing and mirth of a birthday.

The start of the birthday cake tradition as many of us know it began in 15th century Germany when bakeries started to sell celebratory cakes for birthdays as well as weddings, which would become more elaborate as the centuries continued.

By the 18th century, the tradition of Kinderfest cemented the connection of cakes and candles, with a similar superstition of protecting children from evil spirits, and a similar Swiss tradition established a common tradition of having one candle for each year of life.