Cupcake Love

We adored this classic vanilla cupcake. After fighting over the candy heart, we savored the thick buttercream frosting, as airy and sweet as marshmallows, and soft yellow cake that made us nostalgic for childhood birthday parties. No wonder La Salle Bakery cakes are so popular with kids. 933 Smith Street, Providence, 831-9563.

The Romantic Cupcake

We heard Nancy’s Fancies is known for their red velvet cupcakes and we could see (and taste) why. We swooned over the moist, classic cake and creamy sweet frosting, as well as 
the too-cute design, which can be customized with your own message. (We have a hunch that “Marry Me” is a fave). 294 Atwells Avenue, Providence, 421-2253.

The Dreamy Cupcake

“Excellent frosting-to-cake ratio,” one of our tasters raved. This pretty, dark chocolate raspberry treat from The Bakery Boutique (formerly known as Sprinkles Fine Desserts) won over even non-raspberry lovers. The milk chocolate buttercream frosting and subtle yet indulgent cake had us asking for seconds. 55 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, 231-2253. 

The Feel-Good Cupcake

Here’s a guilt-free cupcake for you: Local high school students and City Girl Cupcake founders Isabella Veader and Catherine Corrente donate 100 percent of the proceeds from their farm-fresh, organic homemade cupcakes to charity. We couldn’t resist their adorable spiced gingerbread cupcake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, a perfect mix of warmth and sweetness. 99 Weybosset (opens in February!), Providence, 580-1271.

The Sophisticated Cupcake

Sweet Cakes Bakery’s spectacular-looking creations wowed us as soon as we opened the box. We all loved the rich dark chocolate cake, while the gorgeous French buttercream roses will appeal to those who don’t like their sweets, well, sweet. They’re almost too pretty to eat. Almost. 1227 Kingstown Road, Peace Dale, 789-5420.

The Elegant Cupcake

Cupcakerie owner Kristin Brennan got the idea to experiment with florals after receiving lavender mints in her stocking last Christmas. We loved this unusual herbal cake made with local lavender, a nice break from typical sugary sweetness, as well as the vanilla bean frosting’s rich flavor and texture. 1860 Broad Street, Cranston, 835-0311.