Scenes at Manteena’s head office will have both Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay shaking in their boots as Manteena staff put on show their culinary skills in a battle for ultimate glory and the honour of being crowned Cupcake King 2009.
The morning tea, held on 17 August as part of the Cupcake Day for the RSPCA, showcased the cooking talents of Mark Bauer, Rod Mitton, Simon Agnello, Richard Harriss, Jassdeev Singh, Rob Walters, Andy Power and Peter McQueen.
A very happy Peter McQueen showing off his trophy
(kindly donated by Trophy Link).
Jassdev torpedoed any claim at the title by eating one of his cupcakes on the journey into work and was subsequently one cake short for the judging; likewise Andy Power, who was unfortunately called out to site where his cupcakes melted in his car.
“Had someone been in the office at 6.30am, I would have been in with a pretty good show,” Andy said.
Rob presented a fine collection of orange and macadamia muffins with a honey and orange glaze.
Richard and Simon made variations of coffee/mocha cupcakes and a chocolate rocky road.
Mark Bauer’s tower of flourless mudcake/white chocolate Bacci cupcakes was an early contender for presentation honours but he was soon to be out-voted by the grand maniere/mint chocolate butterflies, choc dipped strawberries and farm animal ornaments that adorned Peter McQueen’s cupcake stand.
Rod Mitton’s late appearance sent the room abuzz with his Kahlua and orange infused delights, taking a good liking too by the judges, however it wasn’t enough as Pete’s consistency shone through in both presentation and taste and he was ultimately awarded the inaugural Cupcake King 2009 trophy.
Head tasting judge, Lou Agnello, said the quality of the cakes were some of the best he had ever tasted.
“With cupcakes it all comes down to taste, texture and fluffiness – Pete’s cakes certainly excelled in these areas and he’s a worthy winner,” Lou said.
Peter was humble in accepting his trophy saying that it was an honour to win such a prestigious award.
“I’m now considering a career change,” he added.
Event organiser, Julie Krech, said this year’s event was a huge success and importantly raised over $180 for the RSPCA from the proceeds of all cupcakes sold on the day.
“It was a lot of fun and we hope to run this as an annual event because it raises money for such a great cause.
“The boys have set the bar high, so next year we’ll see how the girls go,” Julie said.
