We had a great time last night at Bucci's in Emeryville celebrating my mother in law Vicki's Birthday. Jim (my father in law) did a great planning and keeping it a surprise for Vicki. She was genuinely surprised to see us (and someone's back that looked just like Madie from outside the restaurant!). I made the birthday cake, which was basically a stawberry shortcake. I use the Hot Milk Cake recipe (from the Miette Cookbook that my neighbor Lorena gave me!), Whipped Cream, and Fresh Strawberries. I covered the outside with Salted Caramel Buttercream...which was a lucky leftover that worked out well. I figured if anyone would like to experiment with flavor combinations, it would be Vicki. I think it was a good combo, actually. The dinner was so good, though, that we barely made a dent in this cake. (Especially the slow dough pizza with house-made fennel sausage!) Ok, we finished the top tier. Not too shabby. Happy 65th, Vicki!! You looked radiant & I hope you had as much fun as we all did!! <3 xoxo
