Skip to main content

Red Velvet Crumb Base

I use this version primarily as a base for Volcanoes (page 74), but it could certainly be used for the Double-Chocolate Crumb Cake (page 110) or the Macaroons (page 76), or as a foundation for a special recipe of your own. The red velvet cake, like the chocolate, is already fairly moist and sticky, so it doesn’t need much additional oil to hold it together.

Ingredients

6 unfrosted red velvet cupcakes (page 97)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/4 cup agave nectar
1/2 teaspoon salt

Preparation

  1. In a medium bowl, use your hands to crumble the cupcakes into small, fine bits. Add the oil, agave nectar, and salt to the crumb. Using a rubber spatula, fold together the ingredients until thoroughly combined. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer shelf life, store in the freezer for up to 3 weeks.

From Babycakes by Erin McKenna, (C) 2009 Clarkson Potter
Read More
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Like crispy gnocchi caprese and raspberry—brown butter skillet cake.
A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.
The secret to flavorful, never-greasy eggplant parm? Brine the eggplant first.
Like hot honey chicken with peaches and a dirty martini spritz.
No grill needed for this just-charred-enough sweet and spicy chicken.
Fontina and fried shallots make this diner-style omelet perfectly acceptable dinner fare.