With the pandemic ruining all the fun this year and last, my son’s last two birthdays were a bit of a damp squib, and so the birthday cake became a big feature of the celebrations. Thanks in part to the popularity of reality baking shows, demand for custom-made, novelty cakes is on the rise, and the skill involved in creating these masterpieces really is incredible. Malta has its own home-grown talent that easily competes with the best of them, so we’ve put together some of our favourite tried and tested places that make the coolest custom cakes on the island.
1. Novelty Cakes by Cheryl
My two-year-old is obsessed with buses, so for his birthday I ordered a custom cake in the style of an old Maltese bus from Novelty Cakes by Cheryl. It’s the second cake I have ordered from here and both times I was absolutely blown away with how they turned out. Cheryl works out of her home in Birkirkara, and is immensely talented, as you’ll see when you check out more of her show-stopping creations on her dedicated Facebook Page. Besides the birthday boy himself, this cake was the centre of attention on the big day, and there was no sacrificing taste for creativity because it was absolutely delicious too.
2. Tad-Dulċier
This artisan bakery and coffee shop is located in Floriana and brings to life an evident passion for all things sweet. They serve homemade cakes, baked pastries, coffees and light snacks on site, but they also make elaborate, novelty cakes tailored to your request, no matter how random that request may be. There was another baby birthday on the Island Bébé team recently, with little Giorgio turning one. His love of ducks inspired this bright, beautiful, and tasty custom made cake by the friendly Tad-Dulċier team.
3. Scrumptious Soph
If sophistication is your thing, then Scrumptious Soph’s cakes are for you. The painstaking detail in each cake is incredible, with the themes and colour schemes given so much thought. Whether it’s large cakes or cupcakes you need, Scrumptious Soph will deliver your themed creations in her impeccable signature style. And I don’t think we need to tell you how good they taste, you can literally see the scrumptiousness pouring out of these pictures.
4. Something Sweet by Fran Gambin
Something Sweet is all about fun. From a touch of humour to modern themes, even the flavours are interesting (I can vouch for the lemon curd being an especially delicious one). Fran offers home made sweet bakes, pastries, and desserts, all crafted with care and made with high quality ingredients. So whether you’re looking for a pop of personality in the birthday celebrations, or you prefer to to keep it simple and traditional, get your order in to Something Sweet by Fran Gambin. You won’t be disappointed!
5. Lulu Cafe
Scrolling through Lulu Cafe’s photos on Facebook, you can see the variety they have on offer. I love how their kids custom cakes have a soft, storybook feel to them. The café is situated in Tal-Ibrag, and in addition to custom cakes, they also have fresh sandwiches, salads and more on site, so if you decide to pop in to place your cake order, it would be rude not to stay for a walnut and lavender scone.
Bonus Entry! Emma’s Kitchen
Now that you’ve got your cake organised, if you’re looking for general catering for your event or party, then Emma’s Kitchen comes as one of the most highly recommended caterers on the island. Its fresh, versatile menu can be tailored to suit a wide range of dietary requirements, and if you’ve ever visited Emma’s Kitchen in San Gwann, then you’ll know that everything they touch turns to delectable deliciousness.
