So here's how this whole idea started....

My mom, aware of my obsession of cupcakes, gave me the Martha Stewart cupcake book for Christmas in 2009. Initially intimidated by Martha's perfect chocolate cupcake on the front, I have been slow to dive right in and start baking. I admit that I've made a few of the recipes in this book. Two of them, recipes where I didn't have to go out of my way to find some strange (to me at least) ingredient, like say "unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder". Her recipes, to me, are slightly ridiculous. Why use a double boiler method, when the chocolate can melt even faster in the micro? And why dirty up excess dishes when you could use one bowl to make the box cupcake? Honestly, the box cupcake tastes just as good as any other detailed recipe; the box mix is cheaper, easier, more reliable and in an apartment without air conditioning, much more tolerable to bake. However, inspired by watching the movie Julie&Julia..today actually, I am determined to conquer Martha. I have challenged myself to make all of Martha's recipes, including the frostings and decorating techniques within the next 175 weeks. 175 "inspirational ideas" equals 175 weeks of cupcakes. Though the Martha recipes seem particular and complex, there is something about biting into that cupcake, sharing them with my friends and family and feeling I have accomplished a recipe greater than my grandma's. 


For my fellow cupcake enthusiasts, I hope you enjoy my blog, and appreciate my amateur attempts at being Martha Stewart. Feel free to leave comments or tips as I'm sure I'll need them along the way. Also, if anyone is interested in helping with my dishes, please don't hesitate to comment.