Chronicle Editor
Flora Fadzai Sibanda, [email protected]
WHEN it comes to choosing the perfect gift, particularly for birthdays, the perennial challenge looms large. While some might consider a cake the obvious choice, others see a more valuable treasure beyond the frosting. In a world where picky preferences prevail, the notion of gifting money has gained traction.
Bestowing the power of choice upon the recipient, this modern trend has birthed a delightful hybrid of currency and confection: the money-pulling cake.
Gone are the days of simply handing over cash and cake in separate packages; a wave of social media ingenuity has sparked a reimagining of this tradition. Enter the money-pulling cake, a tantalising treat adorned with message toppers that conceal a concealed cache of currency.
But let’s not be deceived by the veneer of opulence — these cakes are not solely the domain of those riding the waves of romance (mjolo) successfully. They’re a universal delight, suitable for birthdays or any celebratory occasion. Whether enticing taste buds or tickling the soul, a double dose of satisfaction awaits within these confections, for whose heart remains untouched by the allure of money?
Social media platforms have been set ablaze, as even the more seasoned among us join in the jubilation. Grandparents, once reserved in demeanour, now find themselves exclaiming in joy as they uncover the hidden treasures within these delectable creations.
The team at Saturday Chronicle had the privilege of conversing with skilled bakers, who unveiled the secrets behind these inventive desserts. Ndisha Sikhwayi, the creative force behind Ndipe Bites, shared her process. She explained that the cake itself is prepared just like any other sponge cake, but the magic unfolds post-baking.
“After taking the measurements I go to my cake and cut the required length and width which will allow me to fit the money that way the cake is not ruined when the customer pulls it. For the money I wrap it in plastics that will also protect it and make sure the plastics are easy to pull,” said Ndisha.
However, crafting such a confection demands a baker of unimpeachable integrity. Large sums of money, entrusted to these culinary artists, require a high level of honesty to prevent any temptation towards pilfering.
Sarah Masiane, from Woops Cakes and Desserts, shed light on the trend’s origin. Social media’s infectious influence birthed this ingenious amalgamation, capitalising on the age-old desire for a valuable surprise atop the cake. She drew parallels to the concept of “smash cakes,” often reserved for children’s birthdays, where hidden sweets delight the young recipients.
“Instead of putting sweets people then thought of putting money as a way spoiling even adults so they can also find pleasure of pulling money from a cake,” she said.
Venturing to the streets, Chronicle gathered insights from the public, revealing a unanimous appreciation for the allure of money-pulling cakes. Khanyile Dube, a youth, lauded the concept for its dual delight — not only does it bring joy, it also grants recipients the autonomy to select their own desired gift with the gifted money.
“Although I have to say despite it being a great idea and a charming one for that it could also get messy because it then makes the receiver vulnerable to thieves if they are to receive large amounts of money,” she said. — @flora_sibanda
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