If you’re planning a birthday party or get-together and are torn between cupcakes or a cake, you should learn more about cupcake cakes. This versatile hybrid dessert offers endless creative possibilities and can be enjoyed several ways. Below, find what you need to know about them, including ways to make your own.

Your Guide to Cupcake Cakes

What Are They?

Cupcake cakes are made of cupcakes instead of cake layers. Traditional cupcakes are arranged in a preferred shape. A layer of icing is then applied to cupcake tops to create the illusion of a single dessert. It can be decorated as desired with favorite toppings, plastic decorations, and other aesthetic touches.

Cupcake cakes are growing in popularity because of their design versatility and convenient serving size. Cupcakes can be arranged in unusual shapes that cake molds can’t match. Bakers have the freedom to adopt a standard design—like an American flag for the Fourth of July—or create an animal face or superhero mask for a children’s birthday party. They’ll also enjoy the design freedom of frosting and decorating a large surface rather than individual cupcakes.

People love them because no knife is required. Guests serve themselves by pulling off a cupcake-sized serving. They’re excellent for portion control and for feeding a crowd that doesn’t want to overeat.

How to Make Your Own

If you’re a DIYer who wants to attempt a cupcake cake, start by baking traditional cupcakes in muffin tins. Next, assemble them into your preferred shape once they’ve cooled. A spoonful of frosting added to the bottom of each cupcake holds it in place.

Use a cake scraper to trim where needed, and then apply a thick layer of frosting on top. Some patience is required to fill all the gaps. Once the surface is flat and even, decorate to your liking and serve.

Nothing beats the convenience and flavors of fresh-baked cakes, so turn to Emerson’s Bakery for your next purchase. Based in Florence, KY, this bakery carries a wide selection of mouth-watering treats, including cakes, cupcakes, cupcake cakes, donuts, cookies, and danish. They’ve served all occasions since 1970. You can explore their large selection of baked goods on their website, or call (859) 371-9228 to place an order.