Are there any chocoholics in the house?! The crowd roared: YEAH!!!! That was my intro to my demo at the Chocolate Show this past weekend. There are so many reasons people love chocolate: the smell, taste, texture, melt in your mouth affect; one audience member shouted: "it makes you happy". OMG, so true!!

At that moment, I knew it was time to skip to the beat of the mixer on stage and get those chocolate peanut butter cupcakes to the crowd as swiftly as possible. Thus, I began my journey of crowd pleasing with conversation, question and answer, a bit of modeling from an audience member and just pure fun. Honestly, I have a blast with the crowd. I just love people. The energy was great, the people were beautiful and the cupcakes were...well, I'll just say the crowd seemed pleased to my eyes. I wanted to continue the chocolate affair by sharing my recipe with you, perhaps you'll be inspired to make it for Turkey Day or another special occasion. Be sure to let me know how it goes!! Happy Chocolidays!!!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

Yield: 24 cupcakes
Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1¼ teaspoon coarse salt
¾ cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder

2¼ cups granulated sugar

1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter

4 large eggs, room temperature

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

¾ cup hot water

1 cup nonfat sour cream, room temperature

Semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven 350°F. Line muffin pans with paper liners. Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Set aside. In another bowl whisk together cocoa powder and hot water, until smooth.

2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; add sugar stirring, until combined. Remove from heat, pour into mixing bowl. With an electric mixer on medium-low speed, beat until cooled about 7 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, scraping down sides of bowl periodically. Add vanilla extract and cocoa mixture, beat until combined. Reduce speed; add flour mixture alternating with sour cream, ending with flour until just combined.

3. Divide batter evenly among lined cups filling three-quarters full. Bake approximately 20-25 minutes, rotating pans halfway through and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Transfer pans to rack or counter to cool before removing cupcakes.

4. To finish, spread peanut butter frosting and drizzle with melted chocolate.

Peanut Butter Frosting

6 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar½ teaspoon salt

1 cup creamy peanut butter½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

½ cup heavy cream1.

With an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat cream cheese, sugar and salt until fluffy. Add peanut butter and vanilla, beat to combine.2.

In a separate bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed, whisk heavy cream until medium-stiff peaks form. Fold cream into peanut-butter mixture.

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze

Halloween came early at Whole Foods Bowery Culinary Center on Sunday, October 30th. A few kids came dressed for the occasion. There was a bumble bee, Mortisha Adams (with the skull) and a pirate. The other kids were anxious to wear their costumes on Halloween, the next day. Me too, for that matter. I was going as a 1960's chick. My kids: a boxer and a skeleton. I love Halloween, not sure if my favorite part is playing dress up, because that never grows old or collecting the candy. Hmmm... This year, the kids had pre-Halloween celebration at Whole Foods with all the candy toppings and cupcakes, there was definitely a sugar rush going on. The kids were so excited to help make the frosting and decorate the cupcakes. Some ate while decorating; a few abandoned the decorating idea all together and went for the candy first, then the cupcake. It's always so much fun to have kids cupcake classes, their little minds are completely one track: READY. SET. EAT CUPCAKES!!!!! Gotta love that...

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze

CUPCAKE BOSS

In the July issue of Essence magazine, the article reads: CUPCAKE BOSS. Gotta love that! I mean, who wouldn't?! It's such a flattering opener to a story about oneself. And, I had absolutely nothing to do with it. Still, I couldn't help but wonder how the magazine staff settled on the title. But, then again, does it really matter?! Nope.

Before the magazine hit the stands a couple of weeks ago, I never thought about circulation stats. That is, until my Facebook and Twitter followers doubled. Can't say that I'm on the heels of Lady Gaga with FIVE MILLION followers or anything remotely close to that figure. But, for me, the numbers have definitely increased a few digits. Randomly, I receive notices....John Smith is now following you....Jane Adams is too! WHO?? Then, I think, oh, Essence---right....

Even, the inquiries in my inbox come more frequently. Clearly, a little bit of press can take you to another level, of baking, in my case. I've received a few request for out-of-state shipping. We're not there yet, but it's a real consideration now.

The article is about FIVE ways to mix passion with profit:

1. Be Inspired

2. Have a Mission

3. Set Daily Goals

4. Garner Support

5. Recharge Every Quarter

The fifth one is my favorite. Every three months, I go into what I call "mommy lockdown", I check out of my daily routine (family, business, friends etc..) and check into a hotel for 36 hours with NO external communication. Basically, call me only if "SOMEONE" is on fire. If it's the house, call the fire department. Selfishly, it's my veg out time. DO-NOT-DISTURB exudes from my inner core. With pleasure, I order room service, enjoy spa treatments (that's plural), read Essence magazine. And, simply RECHARGE. Honestly, it's the best way for me to stay balanced.

I highly recommend the "lockdown" retreat. And, it's one unisex fits all. So, moms and dads, check your balance. Perhaps, it's time for you to RECHARGE!!!

See you at the chateau!

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze

THE "SPRINKLES" ATTACK

Every so often I'll do a cupcake run. Basically to check out the competition. So, after a brief shopping spree at Bloomingdales (Lexington Ave, my Fav) the other day. I hit Sprinkles Cupcakes a block away. I opted to buy a box of six--to get a fair comparison: two red velvet, one black & white, two milk chocolate and one carrot. All the flavors were selected with family members in mind. Of course, I sampled each. The red velvet was for me, milk chocolate, my offspring, and the carrot was reserved for my partner in crime, my hubby. The the rest would be family style.

For me, the carrot was a little spicy--too much nutmeg and ginger, but the long strands of carrot were a fresh addition. The red velvet cake was moist, but the frosting--well, tasted a few days old, maybe three?! Not sure, just my guess. Black and white, that's chocolate cake with so called cream-cheese frosting--again, disappointing! My kids seem to enjoy the milk chocolate, but cupcakes and kids--who can go wrong? Admittedly, I've had a few baking disasters, needless to say, my boys' sideline commentary of "yucks" confirmed the results.

Back to the Sprinkles affect, so, we're in the car returning home and my husband who refuses to own up to his sweet tooth, yet always in search of his next fix, asked for a piece of a cupcake. I gave him the one with his name on it, the carrot. He had no major reaction to the taste. Not that I expected one. In fact, his exact words were: "babe your cupcakes are waaaaaayyyyy better than these." What can I say, "men?"--they always know the right things to say. Perhaps, there is an ulterior motive?! But, whatever!

About six minutes after hubby indulged the shredded crumbly carrot pieces, the ATTACK seized his internal organs and the invisible band began to tighten. Suddenly, my husbands face twisted reminding me of the exorcist or more like Sigourney Weaver birthing her Alien baby. I wasn't sure if I should grab the wheel, jump out of a moving vehicle, or simply ignore him. I settled on remaining calm and advising him to drive to the nearest rest area. Thank God there was one within a half a mile. Whew! That was close.

Needless, to say we won't "dine-in" or "take-out" from that cupcakery anymore. This was no random act of violence, eh-eh, this was PERSONAL, an accident waiting to happen, literally!

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze

Lady Cupcake Tour

"Lady Gaga", "Taylor Swift", "J-Lo" I'm not. But, I CAN imagine what it must be like to be an artist on tour: concert dates, sold-out venues, rehearsals, wardrobe, hair/makeup, fans and..MASSIVE checks. Okay, perhaps, I can't imagine the massive checks part, but everything else...do-able!

Lately, I feel like I've been on the "Lady Cupcake Tour." Weird, I know! Venues are a lot smaller than your average concert. Most up close and personal, just a few with theater like-seating. Absent are the in your face...TICKETS ON SALE NOW...through Ticketmaster or LIVE nation.com..., SECOND SHOW...just added!!! The approach is much more relaxed. Some in-store promotions and social media impressions, that's all. But, I do like the sound of SECOND SHOW JUST ADDED!!! Who wouldn't? How about this one...BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!!! Oooooohhhhh!!!

For months, I've mixed the batter, softened the butter, alternated the flour with milk, rehearsed until I was room temperature ready. Last December, the "LC" tour kicked off as a two-city circuit: New York and New Jersey. From Williams-Sonoma , Macy's, Bloomingdales, Architectural Digest Home Design Show, Neiman Marcus to Whole Foods Market with a few local venues in between. I know its sounds crazy, but I even have upcoming dates. Now, do you see what I mean? The Lady Cupcake Tour!!!! I've been turning more than "your favorite dessert into cupcakes". I heard the "pie" is the new trend for 2011, so I threw a few blueberries and cherries into my routine. Of course, I rehearsed before incorporating the "dough process". Seemingly, crowds approved.

Clearly, I haven't sold out arenas, and obviously I'm not referred to as Mrs. Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter aka "Beyonce". I'm still trying to figure out how she endures a 2 1/2 hour high-impact aerobic workout onstage night after night. I would pass out mid-set. Then, cancel the rest of the tour.

Whew--no worries, I am not your competition "B".

Admittedly, it would be super cool to trade places with a performer for one, maybe two nights. Why not? The marquee at Radio City would read performing tonight "Lady Cupcake". Across town, Madison Square Garden would flash SOLD OUT demonstration "Lady Cupcake".

Aaaahhhhh.......

Feel free to pinch me at any time or I'll just wake up on my own.

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze

Martha Cheats?

It was a shocking revelation. Earlier this week, I was watching the TODAY Show and the Goddess of "Lifestyle Everything" was the guest. None other than, Martha Stewart. She did a cooking segment. The feature was Pate-a-Choux, a french pastry dough. Think--cream puffs, profiteroles-(pronounced- pro- fit-ter- rolls), it took me a minute too! And, Eclairs. Yum!

For me, the best part wasn't her technique or the insanely delicious eye-tasting treats. Of course, whenever I see Martha, I'm in awe of her knowledge. Each time, I become a sponge absorbing all of the nutritional molecules surrounding her brain cells. Face-it, is there anything she doesn't know about baking, cooking, gardening, weddings, or entertaining? Apparently, so!

We're all aware that she's still in training for "insider trading". Sorry, your highness--couldn't resist.

Believe it or not, Martha uses CHEAT SHEETS!!! I know- CRAZY- right! If I didn't see it for myself- I wouldn't believe it.

Picture this...during the demonstration the camera zoomed in to get a better angle of Matt and Meredith participating as sous chefs. Martha stood off to the side. And, BAM- to the right of the dough bowl, was a 3 X 5 index card with blue recipe highlights. STUNNED--to say the least. Suddenly, I was nervous- why? Not sure. But, mostly excited, envious, reassured, and RE-LIEVED! If the queen, could have a few helping lines. Why not me? Would I have to join her fraud wagon? I wasn't ready to do time--eh eh. Besides, Martha already did her stint--she was good!

Seriously, if it was okay for MS. STEWART...

Then...

Or is there a double standard? Perhaps, I have more dues to pay. Although, I would be less conspicuous. Maybe even, write on my hand. Hmm...it worked in grammar school- or did you get caught? He-he!

The point is no one knows EVERYTHING, not even Martha Stewart!!!

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze

Cupcake vs. Cupcake

The CW called. Way Cool! The first season they contacted me, admittedly I was quite intimidated. I wasn't ready. And, I didn't have enough bakers experience to convince myself, otherwise. In order to battle on the front-lines, I knew that I had to be equipped with the weapons of sweet destruction. The classic homemakers kitchen-aid, a few whisks, spatulas and the Betty Crocker spirit wasn't tough enough. I had to UP my game. What I needed--was a BADASS RESUME!

At the time, I had a few notches on my belt with the weekly column on Essence and the feature on Brides. If nothing else, the publications gave me--oomph! The question: could I go against the "best of the best" in the cupcake war? On the surface, presentation, skill, and flavor, would undoubtedly be the categories graded. What about the less tangible: personality, and confidence? I had 3 out of 5. I'm competitive and I love a challenge. I've never turned down a chance to wax my husband in Pac-Man. Ask him! His defense may resemble, "that's a girlie game". WHAT-EVERRRRR!

After several months of beating, mixing and piping, my professional experience had grown to a competitive level. "Lean On Me" was no longer a song in my play list. Now, I would be a serious contender. A few, at my demonstrations and instructor classes, quietly promoted the notion: "You should be on the CW." I figured, they were just being polite. Honestly, I never really considered, nor did I pursue everyone Else's idea.

Until now....Seaon 3. Apparently, a video of my demo, circulated. Let that be a lesson--be careful what you record. But, was I ready? The casting description read: calling all bakers, store owners, caterers, pastry chefs etc... Was that me? I guess. After all, I am the chef/owner of The Cupcake Craze...

Success is when preparedness meets opportunity. Here was the opportunity...I was prepared, but, the timing was less than favorable. Unfortunately, there were too many prior commitments that stood between me and the flour power. Once again, I had to decline. Shucks- maybe next time!

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze

Cupcakes vs. Pies

First, the whoopie pie was the "new cupcake"-huh! Then, there was the macaroon- eh-eh! Now, allegedly, it's the classic American pie with it's juicy fruit filling flavors: apple, blueberry or cherry. Tempted, yet? Seriously, would you really bail on that little bite-sized treat...grab some vanilla bean and turn that flaky crust into an "a la mode" heaven? Such a sweet dilemma.

C'mon...where is the loyalty? There are very few things in life more delightfully nostalgic than an old-fashioned cupcake. Remember the school bake sales? Those were the days. It was a lot less competitive back then. The chocolate chip cookies sold for .25 cents and the cupcakes were .50 cents. The maximum spent was $1.00--you had to have at least two cookies.

As preschoolers, we all learned the value of sharing. Well, most of us. Some are still struggling. Case in point: a little pie for you and a cupcake for me. Vice-versa--everyone's happy. It's not like we're voting for Hillary Clinton vs. Sarah Palin, although neither of them are sweet. Are they?

Does society have to dictate our choice of the perfect indulgence? No. Besides, what's wrong with a little variety? Some like vanilla others prefer dark chocolate. And, you know what they say about chocolate...another time.

Personally, I love pies AND cupcakes. Why can't we have it all? While we're at it, let's throw in some brownies, a batch of cookies, a few doughnuts and three or four scoops of Neapolitan ice cream. Why not? There is no good reason why one has to cancel out the other.

Pleasure yourself. And, hit the gym later.

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze

SOLD OUT

Rock Stars sell out arenas. From legends like Bruce Springsteen to mainstream hip-hop artists like Jigga-what? (Jay-Z) to a British goddess who can take a sabbatical for a decade only to return a SOLD OUT show ten-months in advance. Now, that's a ROCK STAR!!! I'm "Cherishing the Days" til I see the one and only, SADE.

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be a rock star? Tell the truth. I have. I can't say that I've imagined selling out places like Madison Square Garden, the Staples Center or even the New Orleans Superdome. And, as much as I loooovvvveee to sing, I know my lane. Besides, I would never get a record deal. Then again, Milli Vanilli did. Remember them?... "Girl You It's True.... Ooh, Ooh, Ooh, I love you". Boy did they have great pipes, I mean lips. Ha!

In the culinary world (my lane), the obvious stars are Martha, Paula, and Rachel. Certainly, they're accustomed to sold out venues, long lines, waitlists etc...I can't tell you how many times I've ignored my presale emails only to find out, after the fact that they were at a local event, yesterday. Ugh! Gotta read those emails.

Read this:

BE MY CUPCAKE

Location: Whole Foods Market Bowery Culinary Center, New York, NY

Date: Saturday, February 5th, 2011 11am-2pm

Details: Demonstration and Hands-On

Just in time for Valentine's Day, chef Nicole Friday will show you how to transform the classic cupcake into a dipped and glazed piece of edible art.

Menu: Valentine Cupcakes with Chocolate Glaze; Classic Chocolate Cupcakes

Instructor: Nicole Friday, Chef/Owner, The Cupcake Craze

Adult Registration

1 adult registration

Price: $55.00

SOLD OUT (this item is sold out)

Two words: ROCK STAR!!!! Now, I know what it feels like. I can not believe my class is SOLD OUT. That's crazy!!! I guess my name doesn't have to end in Stewart, Deen or Ray, afterall.

"Friday" will do.

Check out the full description of the class: www.acteva.com/booking or go to www.facebook.com/thecupcakecraze.

posted by Nicole Friday for the Cupcake Craze