Martina's Birthday Cake

This is my own creation.  It is a layer chiffon cake, with fresh strawberries and whipped cream layer and whipped cream frosting.  I put lots of blueberries on top because berries always look good on cakes.  The wafer is an idea I took from coming cross this recipe:

http://une-deuxsenses.blogspot.com/2010/06/easy-layer-cake-with-custard.html 

However, I probably won't do that again because the wafer can become soggy.  

I'm starting a new job next week, so I won't be there for my old boss' birthday.  I decided to bake a cake for her and for my farewell (for the team to celebrate that I'm finally leaving, of course).  Everyone loved the cake, including the people from the other department on the floor!  I know I will miss this fantastic team and especially my boss.


Special thanks to my wonderful hubby who cut the wafers into equal length for me and for helping out in the kitchen.  This is a once-in-a-blue-moon event so I thought I should document it.  Haha...

Matcha Mochi Cupcakes

http://www.humblebeanblog.com/2009/12/matcha-mochi-cupcakes/

These cupcakes are super easy.  All you need is to mix all the wet and dry ingredients up (ensure the batter is mixed well with no lumps) and bake.  I reduced the sugar by 1/3, the taste is just right.  I quite like the cracked surface, making the texture more cake-like on top and chewy in the centre.  

Challah

http://www.williams-sonoma.com/recipe/challah.html

This looks complicated but it's again a very easy-to-make yeast egg bread.  Obviously, I still need to brush up my braiding technique but I totally love the bread.