Local Cupcakes

I have been on the cupcake hunt for a while now... Cupcake places have started popping up around here and ever since I have had to try them, everywhere.

Lessons learned:

1. Do not even consider trying the vegan cupcake from PCC (unless you are vegan). Ralf. I don't know what I was thinking. I'm too cheap to know about any other cupcakes they may have.

2. New York Cupcakes did not impress me but the mini cupcakes were pretty good, for some reason. Not a fan of their frosting. Doesn't taste like real buttercream, so what's the point?

3. Sugar Rush Baking Co. is more creative than most (more flavor and combination options) and is pretty good...although some of their cakes are a bit plain-tasting. The frosting is good. Heather was monstrous enamored with their white chocolate ganache-type frosting.

4. Hello, Cupcake is in my top for flavor and consistency. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Good frosting. Not a lot of variety flavor-wise, which I can live with. They close way too early so I can never make it, which I'm sure is for the best (my jeans thank you - unreasonable hours).

5. Cupcake Royale was disappointing the one try I gave it and I have not cared to try again. They give you the feeling of "must mass produce cupcakes" and that the simple fact of them selling cupcakes is sufficient (i.e. who cares about perfecting the product). Does not have the fun little bakery-shop feel. I'm curious to try them again as it was a while ago, but I'm too poor and too cake snobby.

6. Common Ground Cupcakes was over baked when they first opened. They have improved since and I really enjoy their little shop which is cozy to read/study in and I believe has free wi-fi. I like their cake and frosting.

7. Trophy Cupcakes disappointed me first try too. I tried for something more adventurous (Red Velvet and a Chocolate cupcake with raspberry filling and raspberry frosting) and was so glad I got a vanilla-vanilla (yes I bought three cupcakes. for myself.). Second try I went for chocolate with vanilla frosting and now I am smitten. SO GOOD! Delicious cake and probably my favorite frosting ever. I don't think I'll ever try another flavor, but it is so good. PLUS, they have DELICIOUS hot chocolate with amazing marshmallows they make. The hot chocolate is too sweet though. Just ask them to add a bit extra milk and less of the chocolate mix.

Conclusion #1: Cupcakes are still worth making at home as most store-made often leave much to be wanting. Plus who has the money to spend 3 buckeroos on each little cake?

Conclusion #2: must pose as Trophy Cupcakes worker and learn their vanilla buttercream recipe.