Everyone congratulates you and wishes you a happy birthday during your special day, but all you want is the sweet taste of a cupcake to commemorate another year of life. Now that you are on the lookout for cupcakes, it is time to make sure that they are perfect for your once-a-year event. As with any significant order, there are several factors to consider. This post compiles a list of valuable points to consider when choosing your birthday cupcakes.
What is the event?
If it is for a child who loves kittens and rainbows, go with funny cat faces iced in chocolate buttercream frosting atop funfetti cake or vanilla cupcakes with colorful sprinkles. Some bakeries restrict ages for certain types of food, like chocolate, so check on these restrictions when ordering your cupcake trays. If the event is a more serious adult affair, use thin fondant letters or elegant swirls of frosting to decorate the cupcakes.
The number of people who will attend the party
You can order your favorite cupcakes online or over the phone, but most bakeries require a minimum number of servings for delivery depending on location and other factors such as time of day. If you are ordering a larger variety, make sure there is enough variety in flavors and textures to account for all palates. Also, be sure that whatever you choose can be held in good condition until they are served to taste fresh and flavorful when eaten.
Your budget
Cost is one of those things that can be hard to communicate over the phone, but most bakeries will show you a quote before you place your order. Pay attention to the price-per-serving cost, as this will depend on how many happy birthday cupcakes you order and what sizes they come in. If it is a special occasion and will be shared, consider ordering a set of two or three different cupcake flavors with an individual tray for each person at about half the cost of a single-flavor package.
Flavors that will be served
Think about what you are looking for in a cupcake. If it is a special occasion, consider a few well-executed flavors or an exotic flavor that will impress everyone. In particular, you should consider if you are making fun desserts for children or creating an elegant dessert table for a wedding. Also, consider how many flavors you will need, how they will complement each other, and if there will be enough variety.
The kind of icing you want
Icing tends to be split into two categories: buttercream and fondant. Buttercream is made with butter and powdered sugar, while the fondant is rolled out and draped over the tops of cupcakes or shaped into shapes or letters. Both taste great and have different appearances but must be applied differently. Buttercream is smoother, more subtle, and can be bright colors when piped onto the cupcakes.
Fondants can be made in various colors and flavors to match your event or theme. Fondant can also be covered with sprinkles or placed atop cupcakes for an elegant look. You may also use both buttercream and fondant on the same cupcake for a unique look. Ask about buttercream flavor choices at your chosen bakery, as not all bakeries make all flavors in their store.
The packaging of the cupcakes
Cupcakes come in either individual boxes or trays. If you plan to serve your cupcakes at the event, consider the shape and size of the party plates and dessert forks you will be using.
Purchasing a happy birthday cupcake is a critical decision. It is a gift that you want to be remembered, and it should be the perfect representation of what your recipient wants and needs.
