Face my fears

So I finally decided to face my fears and make some mini pavlovas. Now I don't know why, but I have always been nervous about being able to whip up egg whites to the right consistency, so have never attempted pavlova or meringues.
BUT... They are so easy.. well I guess with the right equipment. I have a standing mixer which I am sure makes it 100% easier. I used a recipe from best recipes and for my first attempt I was so impressed. They are delicious. I might put a picture up later if I can get a good one.

I also made some playdough as a christmas present for a friend's little boy. NOTE to self: next time wear gloved when kneading in the food dye. Stained nails and hands do not look nice to anyone. But also the playdough turned out good. I am hoping for a hat trick today though and am about to try another new recipe I haven't used before. Special K banana muffins :)

Bite the bullet..

I have been meaning to start a blog for a few months now. Today is the day! Any tips and tricks on making this look better and any blog-etiquette would be appreciated.

For many that know me they will know that I am somewhat obsessed with cupcakes.. baking them, buying tiers for them and basically collecting anything with a cupcake on it. I have decided to challenge myself to a Julia & Julia-esque style challenge.



I am going to bake my way through all the cupcake recipes in the Women's Weekly cookies & cupcakes book. Now originally I was going to use the newer version of the book that I have but there is 60 odd recipes.





So instead I will be using this version:

I don't know how long I will be giving myself to complete them all. I also think I might make some variations as a few of them don't have any icing and I am a big fan of icing. But here is the complete list

1. Chocolate and Coconut Sponge cakes
2. Choc Top
3. Chocolate Ginger Cakes with HoneyComb Cream
4. Black Forest Cakes
5. Lamington Angel Cakes
6. Chocolate Date & Almond Meringues (although not a typical cupcake it's in the book so will have to attempt it)
7. Coffee Caramel Cakes
8. Caramel Mud Cakes
9. White Chocolate Mud Cakes
10. Coconut Cherry Hearts
11. Apple Custard Teacakes
12. Passionfruit Curd Cakes
13. Very Berry Cakes
14. Daisy Cakes