So, I’ve been sitting on this book for a couple of weeks now, and I have gone through it at least a half a dozen times, cover to cover. “Simply Perfect Party Cakes for Kids” by Zoe Clark, available at The Cake Parlour.com for those of you in the UK, and at Amazon.com
Every time I do, I see something else that I didn’t know how to do. Every time I do, I feel less overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of Zoe Clark’s creations. I do have to admit, that was my first reaction. An overwhelming feeling that these would be tough to pull off. But, the more I read, and the more I actually looked at all the information she provided, I quickly realized that I shouldn’t be feeling like that. Clark does an incredible job breaking down every single step, and shows the reader a bunch of little “short cuts” that are the key to giving you a polished looking finished cake.
It’s not just cakes that you’ll find in here either. There are all sorts of party accompaniments, like cupcakes and cookies, also decorated to fit the theme. By about the third read through I realized I was already planning my daughters upcoming birthday around one of these cakes (that one you see on the cover). And the best part, is that it’s not going to be identical to the one you see. This book has given me the confidence to branch out and combine techniques I’ve seen throughout it, and other places, to create (in my head for now), something beautiful. Keep your eyes out in February for a very similar cake with some pin cushioning added. Also, these superhero mask cookies. I mean, I will be the best Mom ever if I make these!
I wouldn’t just say this is a book solely for children’s parties either (which in my head automatically went to the younger crowd). There are some great older kid options (think tweens), like the paint-ball cake, superhero cake, and what my three year old loved, the purse and make-up cake (she’s only 3… help!). There’s also a great disco ball cake which would make an incredible New Year’s Eve dessert.
This book is for anyone who wants to get in the kitchen, and isn’t afraid of a challenge. And remember, it’s only as big a challenge as you make it… if 3 tiers is intimidating, make it 1! Personally, I can’t shell out the money I see so many other moms doing for a designer cake for their kids. I’d rather make it myself, even if it doesn’t turn out “perfect”, and in the end I’m always so happy to see my kids enjoying something that I did for them.
One last time, the book is “Simply Perfect Party Cakes for Kids” by Zoe Clark and is available at:
The Cake Parlour.com for those of you in the UK
Amazon.com for my North American Readers
Let me know below!