22.06.16

She bakes cakes that stand out

Faro Matsinde, from CCTreats

Faro Matsinde, from London cake studio CCTreats

Cake artist, Rufaro ‘Faro’ Matsinde’s love of baking began during her high-school days studying food and nutrition, but it was only after having kids that she began to do something about her passion. Organizing her children’s parties came the realization she could create the cakes and treats herself, and when family and friends started placing orders and spreading the word, Matsinde’s London cake studio, CCTreats was born.

CCTreats specializes in creating bespoke celebration and wedding cakes, and sweet treats such as cupcakes and cookies, all freshly made with locally sourced, and select fairtrade, ingredients. Translating each client’s vision into a work of edible art to crown their special occasion takes about two whole days, with wedding cakes taking longer. And, whether it’s a designer handbag or a fairytale princess castle, Matsinde hand shapes each cake herself. Refining her techniques as she has gone along, she constantly experiments with ingredients to create CCTreats’ signature flavors and fillings, such as the award-winning Midnight Safari, a decadent blend of Amarula and dark chocolate. And, largely self-taught in sugarcraft and decorating, Matsinde has had the opportunity to train with world-renowned cake artists.

Faro's Easter desserts for MOYI

Faro’s Easter desserts for MOYI

Moyi mag-924-Edit

For the Moyi Easter table, Matsinde was inspired by the fresh, soft colour palette of Easter and spring, adorning the cakes with Easter eggs and edible African flower decorations. For the Easter cake Matsinde had created a light three-layer vanilla sponge soaked in Madagascan Bourbon Vanilla bean syrup. A fluffy white chocolate and vanilla bean buttercream filled each layer, and for the finishing touch a speckled buttercream with melted Divine White chocolate covered the cake. In a nod to her African heritage, traditional African beading had provided the main inspiration for a delectable selection of cookies, each edible bead individually applied by hand. And, rounding out the sweet offerings are hand-piped cupcakes in pretty pastel shades; perfect additions to an inviting teatime setting worthy of the sun-filled season.

  • Great job, Faro!!! Well-written piece that really captures the essence of who you are and the care you put into baking these beautiful cakes. I wish you continued success.

    by Olga Zitha
    23/06/2016

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