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Cupcake Cafe in New York City
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See the most recent article on the Cupcake Cafe at their new locations. August 2007 |
>> NOTE: Since this article was written The Cupcake Cafe has two, new, delicioius and fun loations.
If, when considering this picture of New York's famous Cupcake Cafe, you think it looks like a dive, you're right.
Yes, those are dents in the corner of the building. Paper posters have been taped to the walls, leaving residue when peeled off. And yes, the place is run down. Is it better when you walk in? No. Everything is old, worn and wobbly.
So why visit? You need to see for yourself! This somewhat dismal, low-overhead bakery specializes daily in producing thousands of butter-cream frosting flowers, dressing cupcakes and cakes of all sizes. Collectively, the Cupcake Cafe's wares peek out of 12 feet of display cases like a fresh, summer garden.
If you shop very early, take advantage of the atmosphere by ordering sweet rolls or cupcakes to be served at one of their rickety cafe tables. Later in the day, crowds arrive to pick up orders (boxes upon boxes of cupcakes or cartons of cakes), leaving little room to stand, much less a quick, sit-down snack.
Buy these cupcakes for their high-quality frosting, which looks beautiful and tastes best when eaten immediately or shortly after being removed from refrigeration.
When left at room temperature, the frosting softens. This frosting doesn't have the stiffness of grocery store-type frosting (nor the greasy aftertaste). While the soft frosting continues to look good, it tastes best when slightly cool. Even when frozen, this frosting is wonderful!
The cake portion of the cupcake is heavy and somewhat coarse. But, really, the cake portion is an afterthought. To me, the frosting's the treat. Its flowers look great and they taste like they've been cultivated in the finest confectionery hothouse.
If you're like me, you'll probably buy more cupcakes than you can eat in one setting. So, what to do with the old ones that have been sitting several days in your frig? Deploy the Oreo cookie trick. Slice off the bottoms and eat the tops. Later, snack on the dry-but-good bottoms along with a rich cup of coffee.
If you can't get to New York City, try your hand at making these treats yourself. Co-owner and baker Ann Warren wrote The Cupcake Cafe Cookbook that has recipes and best, decorating tips.
The Cupcake Cafe is close to Broadway and the fabulous 42nd Street area where there are movies, arcade games, and a wonderful cluster of import shops. It is just behind the New York, New Jersey Port Authority in an area where you might not think to stroll.
August 2007 Update The Cupcake Cafe greatly expanded. See Littleviews' The Cupcake Cafe on 9th Avenue and 39th Street in New York City for the most recent information in addition to checking their website.
Questions? Comments?
Karen Little
Article and photos by Karen Little. Map created in Microsoft's Streets and Trips 2002. First published on 4/27/2002. All rights reserved by www.LittleViews.com.
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