Cupcake Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cupcake
[ˈkʌpˌkeɪk ]
Definition
baking
A small cake baked in a cup-shaped container and typically iced.
Synonyms
fairy cake, patty cake.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cupcake |
Commonly used in American English to refer to small, sweet, individual cakes often decorated with frosting. Suitable for casual, everyday conversations or settings like birthdays, parties, and bakeries.
|
| fairy cake |
Primarily used in British English to describe small, light sponge cakes often decorated simply with icing. Used in informal settings such as home baking and children's parties in the UK.
|
| patty cake |
More often associated with the children's hand-clapping game 'pat-a-cake', but can occasionally refer to small cakes similar to cupcakes. Used in contexts involving children or nursery rhymes.
|
Examples of usage
- She baked delicious cupcakes for the party.
- I bought a box of cupcakes for dessert.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Cupcakes date back to the late 18th century, originating from recipes that measured ingredients by the cup.
- The term 'cupcake' was first recorded in Eliza Leslie's cookbook in 1828, where she referred to a cake baked in small cups.
- In the early 1900s, cupcakes were called 'number cakes' because the recipe called for a specific number of ingredients.
Pop Culture
- Cupcakes became a popular dessert in the U.S. during the 2000s, thanks to trendy cupcake shops and TV shows.
- They are featured in many celebrations, from birthdays to weddings, often customized for themes and colors.
- Movies and TV shows, like 'Sex and the City', have highlighted the appeal of gourmet cupcakes, turning them into a cultural phenomenon.
Culinary Arts
- There are endless flavors of cupcakes, ranging from classic vanilla and chocolate to adventurous options like lemon basil and red velvet.
- Frosting techniques can turn cupcakes into a canvas for art, with skilled bakers creating beautiful designs and decorations.
- Some bakers use unique ingredients, like alcohol or spices, to create gourmet versions that elevate the traditional cupcake.
Psychology
- Eating cupcakes can trigger feelings of joy and nostalgia, often reminding people of happy occasions like birthdays.
- The colorful and decorative nature of cupcakes can stimulate the senses and enhance overall eating enjoyment.
- Studies indicate that sweet treats, including cupcakes, can release dopamine in the brain, creating a sense of happiness.
Global Variations
- Many countries have their own versions of cupcakes; for instance, the British 'fairy cakes' are similar but often less sweet.
- In Japan, 'cupcakes' sometimes reflect popular anime or cartoon characters, making them visually striking and a treat for fans.
- Mexican 'mole cupcakes' incorporate traditional mole sauce, showcasing how local flavors can influence baking.
Origin of 'cupcake'
The term 'cupcake' originated in the late 19th century, where it was initially used to describe cakes that were baked in small cups or molds. The modern cupcake as we know it today, with frosting and decorations, became popular in the 20th century. Cupcakes are now a beloved treat enjoyed by people of all ages.