Flower Fairy Cakes

If you have plenty of time and patience, you can make a spectacular array of fairy cakes for a special occasion, such as a wedding or christening tea. Because of their sophisticated flavours, I don’t think these would necessarily appeal to children. Rose and carnation fairy cakes, linden flower and elderflower fairy cakes, violet and lavender fairy cakes, marigold and nasturtium fairy cakes can all be created, using a delicate and sparing touch with the food colouring. For the last two, use shredded flowers in the cake batter and the butter cream. For the rest, you can use flavoured sugars, creams or pounded petals, whatever you find most convenient.