Precision of the mind is not interchangeable with precision of the body.
I've never had issues with numbers or simple plug-and-chug formulae, and am proud to declare that even differential equations made sense at one point. Physical dexterity, however, is a different beast altogether.
I've never had issues with numbers or simple plug-and-chug formulae, and am proud to declare that even differential equations made sense at one point. Physical dexterity, however, is a different beast altogether.
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Dainty decorations and steady handiworks are regular endeavours of orangecane and other like-minded artfolk, whose acquired aptitudes prove handy in situations demanding patience and painstaking meticulousness.
I won't hesitate to admit that I missed the cake preorder dates for Mother's Day. Although, I also didn't hesitate to offer an alternate in the form of a request fulfillment. "A buttercream cake - with loads of cream and plush portions of sponge" was the presented challenge.
"Ideally coffee-flavoured" was my last instruction notice.
"Ideally coffee-flavoured" was my last instruction notice.
Consulting the "divine ruler of the kitchen" - orangecane's words, not mine - I proceeded to assemble my baking pans for a tri-layer treat. It was, undoubtedly, my most extravagant undertaking since the ultra-dense, six-layer potluck tower four months prior.
The 1-2-3-4 cake was simple enough, especially after I had taken the liberty of converting to metric units (for the sanity of my digit-dominant brain). My sole deviation from the formula was a generous sprinkling of Maxwell House, because "too much coffee" is not a statement to rear its head in my household.
The 1-2-3-4 cake was simple enough, especially after I had taken the liberty of converting to metric units (for the sanity of my digit-dominant brain). My sole deviation from the formula was a generous sprinkling of Maxwell House, because "too much coffee" is not a statement to rear its head in my household.
| Layered Mocha Cake (A Rough Recipe) |
Cakes cooling and dinner prep completed, I began whipping up the frosting - in the most literal sense possible.
Buttercream would have proved pipeable, for those looking to decorate dramatically. But butter is rare to come by these days. And there was enough butter in the cakes.
Buttercream would have proved pipeable, for those looking to decorate dramatically. But butter is rare to come by these days. And there was enough butter in the cakes.
I turned to cream cheese and heavy whipping cream instead, which yielded an airier profile that was nonetheless as creamy. Of course, in went another generous sprinkle of Maxwell House. Kahlua too would have been a wonderful addition, though I remained mindful that some feasters are more sensitive to alcohol than others.
Those looking to draw inspiration from my creation ought to note the following:
- Shaved chocolate sprinkles should be dusted prior to serving to prevent accumulation of fridge condensation
- Cake layers have the potential to absorb liquid with time, thus same-day consumption is highly recommended
During these COVID times, many re-discover the simple joys in life: a brisk walk accompanied by Vitamin D, a steamy cup of morning java, and the very act of employment. It never ceases to amaze me that some members of society exhibit relentless ignorance towards evolving environments, proceeding to feel - and act - as entitled as ever.
Spring has sprung along our portion of the nation, and while parks are off limits until further notice, there is nothing to hold citizens back from a peaceful gander while maintaining adequate apart-ness from other occupants of the community.from other occupants of the community.
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Even the mundane can be made memorable with the correct mindset.
Jjajangmyeon cravings and a distinct lack of sustenance led us to Onnuri on the return route. The interior had been dimmed, with tables positioned by the entranceway to prevent entry onto the dining floor.
It brought me great sadness that virtually none of our orders delivered the deserved deliciousness. LA Kalbi was but a meager portion of tough morsels; Steamed Dumplings were bland and shriveled. Grilled Mackerel could not be denied of its distinctively fishy odours.
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Even my go-to dish of Jjajangmyeon, while delicious, was teensy in comparison to its usual appearance.
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A Green Tea Choco Pie eased me into the afternoon. The box had been purchased out of frustration - an inability to settle a grocery store bill in the absence of a minimum purchase total.
My haste was rewarded with none other than a peculiar green patty that crumbled with every bite, tasted more minty than grassy, and gave rise to a full-face grimace
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