https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/mardi-gras-party-cakes • Posted by Marcianne Miller
The Mardi Gras merrymaking begins when you bring out cupcakes decorated in the traditional “king cake” colors of green, yellow, and purple. In the New Orleans spirit of lagniappe—putting a little extra on the plate–make plenty of extras for guests to take home. Design Tip You may flavor the glaze with extracts, juices, or liqueurs, substituting juices and liqueurs one to one for the cream. Use no more than 1⁄2 teaspoon extract with this quantity or the glaze may become bitter.
The Mardi Gras merrymaking begins when you bring out cupcakes decorated in the traditional “king cake” colors of green, yellow, and purple. In the New Orleans spirit of lagniappe—putting a little extra on the plate–make plenty of extras for guests to take home. Design Tip You may flavor the glaze with extracts, juices, or liqueurs, substituting juices and liqueurs one to one for the cream. Use no more than 1⁄2 teaspoon extract with this quantity or the glaze may become bitter.
When they are completely cooled, carefully hold each cupcake and dip its crown into the glaze, letting the excess drip back into the bowl.
While the glaze is still wet (within 1 to 3 minutes), sprinkle the glaze with three different colored bands of sanding sugar and allow them to set. (See tips at right on how to make distinct bold stripes with the sanding sugars.)
Repeat for each cupcake. How to Make Sugar Stripes 1. Hold a stiff piece of paper to mask two-thirds of the cupcake as you sprinkle the first color down the paper onto the top of a cupcake that has been covered with sugar glaze to make it slightly sticky. 2. Move the mask to cover the last third as you sprinkle the middle band. 3. Turn the cake around, mask the two sections you have already colored, and sprinkle the final section.
Sugar Glaze 1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar with 2 tablespoons of the cream and beat with a whisk until smooth. 2. Add the melted butter and continue beating until smooth. 3. If needed, add more cream to achieve (and maintain) pouring consistency.