A few of the bakes this Xmas

Did a special edition of Darn Good Choc Cake with a layer of Hazelnut Praline Feulletine
& a newly designed logo *Xmas pressie courtesy of K*

Signatures Cupcakes w/flags

More Macarons - w/Feulletine, Ganache, Lemon &; Nutella

Besides getting busy with the bakes, we're also preparing for the arrival of our second child (sometime near CNY). Heychocolat Bakeshop will not be taking orders temporarily from FEB2011-MAR2011 with regrets (or till we figure out her/our daily routine) but do feel free to email us as we could perhaps squeeze in an order or 2.

Speaking of special requests, I've received emails requesting for fondant-theme cakes or cupcakes with fondant figurines. I've always shy away from fondant mainly because I don't bake something which I don't eat and also, they don't hold up well in our climate.

Recently, I've read online that certain brands of fondant and methods could preserve the fondant cake/figurines for longer periods. I decided to give it a try and trial-test a batch of fruit cupcakes before I commit to taking in orders and also, I'm in the mood for some play-doh!

Don't be fooled by these minis, it took me 4 hours  One WHOLE day to complete. Santa's topsy turvy hat already took half hour to complete. These batches were left to dry on the tabletop in the living room and the figurines still look good after 24 hours but you could see the fondant-covered cakes 'weeping' - still ok.

The next batches were stored covered in the fridge. It kept the shape well but condensation forms on the figurines and cakes (not to mention the color runs) as soon as they were removed from the fridge - bad.

Verdict: I will just stick to making fondant figurines instead of covering the whole cake w/fondant - personal palate issue and also the time/effort spent on a cake. The figurines will go on top of cakes last/on the delivery day itself.  If consumption is on a later date, best to remove the fondant pieces, wipe clean/dry and keep in airtight bags/boxes at room temperature before keeping the cupcakes separately in the fridge. This will keep both the cakes fresh and the fondant pieces intact.

(PS: Dear Readers, if you've ideas on handling fondant to share with us, we will be glad if you cld email us at heychocolat@gmail.com - Thank You and Enjoy this Festive Season!!!)

Here's wishing all a Blessed Xmas and a Prosperous New Year filled with Joy, Love & Happiness!!!

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

We're fully booked till Xmas! We are very grateful to all our supporters out there and we regret not being able to take in your orders for the time being till Jan 2011. Thank you all for your support once again!!!