BA KE RY Cupcake Evolution Thanks to shows like Food Network’s Cupcake Wars, these individual treats are maintaining their position at center stage. In fact, foodchannel.com named cupcakes at the top of their Top 10 Dessert Trends for 2011. The beauty of cupcakes is that you can merchandise them as individual treats or package them together for larger orders. And cupcake towers for events like wedding reception is changing the perception of cupcakes altogether. Ticklebelly Desserts in Denver, CO is on-trend with upscale cupcakes by offering upscale versions of this classic treat, including dipped cupcakes—cupcakes that are dipped in chocolate instead of iced—that instore decorators can easily bedazzle by touching up with sprinkles or extra piping. Ticklebelly is also upscaling cupcakes by coming up with exciting new flavor profiles such as green tea and lemon meringue. “We’re taking a step up from the common cupcake and getting more users to relate to the value proposition of our cupcakes,” says Brian McGuire, president of Ticklebelly Desserts. ATTENTION READERS: has gone digital! View your copy in the new all-digital format to... • Download issues for offline viewing and maximum portability • Search archives of past issues • Get immediate access to the latest issue • Make page notes and bookmarks for quick referencing • Share articles with colleagues and coworkers • Access information about authors and suppliers • Connect with others through social media channels inStorebuyer.com | inStorebuyer | July 2011 | 35 |