Martini Themed Birthday Cake During The Christmas Season

Had such a hard time not making a couple of French Martinis while creating this gift package birthday cake for Mollie (aka Marlena) this past weekend. Inspiration was drawn from the holiday season and most importantly from my consultation with Theresa of the fabulous Italian Restaurant - Il Bacco in Queens, New York.
                                                   Happy Birthday Mollie!

The cakes Blackout Chocolate Cake filled Raspberry Preserves and Strawberry Compote Italian Meringue Buttercream. They were served with a fresh sugared strawberry topping - which by the way is so very easy to make.

                                                     Sugared Strawberries

                                                     1 Pint Fresh Strawberries
                                                     1/2 cup sugar

Rinse and quarter strawberries and place in a bowl.
Pour sugar over strawberries and mix through to evenly coat the strawberries.
Cover and place in refrigerator for about 2 hours. The sugar will draw out the yummy juices from the strawberries.
Serve the strawberry goodness.

MERRY CHRISTMAS ONE AND ALL!

AND

MAY 2012

 BE

HAPPY, HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS!