Have you caught onto the craze of cupcakes? Now kids are asking for birthday cupcakes instead of birthday cakes! Actually, this is an excellent choice for bakers and Moms alike. It is usually easier to come up with a cute cupcake idea than to tackle a large decorated cake. Cupcakes are even taking over weddings.

Much of the craze is due to the fact there are now so many ways to display your cupcake treats. There are display racks in different shapes and the traditional pyramid shape. This allows each guest to easily choose their cupcake and it's easy to refill the display.

For a themed birthday party, you can even purchase cupcake party kits that come with cupcakes rings and tiny characters so the kids can have fun while eating. Check out the Sesame Street Kit, Care Bears Kit or other displays that are available.

Now it is easy to transport cupcakes too! Don't worry about the cupcakes falling over and messing up the top. With a 3-in-1 Cake Caddy, you can take a dozen cupcakes in a covered carrier. If you are a baker or cake decorator by occupation, there are now cupcake inserts that slip nicely into 1/4 sheet cake boxes.

Also try out the cupcake/muffin paper trays. These paper trays have linked paper baking cups and they are sturdy enough to stand on their own, to make tranpsorting of baked goods easier. Just place muffin grays on a cookie sheet, pour in batter and bake. Framework and cups come as a complete unit and are grease resistant. When ready to serve - just tear along perforations.

Another great idea are the muffin top papers. You have seen the muffin-top pans that are designed to offer a flat muffin so you get more of the good stuff on top. These muffin papers are rigid enough to stand alone with no pan! Just place on cookie sheet, fill with batter as suggested and bake!

Try these new ideas this winter for your family or bake sales! You will impress your friends and be unique in your baking! Don't forget to choose a book from one of our many cupcake books or muffin books. There are many recipes and ideas in each one!

Here's to you - cupcake!