I thought long and hard before writing about cupcakes. They’re just so dainty and feminine, eaten mostly by little girls and old ladies. It’s not that I’m particularly macho – or even slightly – but surely no self-respecting man should let one pass his lips, let alone ponder it, and then write about it.
But the other day, someone arrived at my house with a box of cupcakes from Avoca in Kilmacanogue. They cost €7.95 for 6, which is a reasonable enough price. When I ate them, I decided I wanted to write about them, ideally under Jean’s name. But she didn’t much care for my masculinity or reputation and wouldn’t let me. Boo!
The cupcakes weren’t very nice, like the first bun made by a small smiling child with no baking skills. They were quite floury, dry, and bland. The icing on all six seemed quite artificial and had a peculiar and not-so-enjoyable sweetness. Apart from the chocolate cupcake, it was hard to identify any particular flavours. Now, Miss Katy who runs the Tea Rooms in Blarney, Co. Cork: she knows how to make a cupcake.
Avoca’s cakes and breads are generally lovely, so this was a bit of a surprise. I recommend giving Avoca’s cupcakes a miss, and choosing another of their delicious sweet treats. Ok, I’m off to nurse my wounded pride and do some manly things, like climbing mountains, breaking things, and being drunk. Grrr!