Ohio University Culinary Services has introduced a new line of cupcakes this quarter, tempting passersby in the Baker food court, campus cafes and campus markets.
The OU Bakery began selling the new line of cupcakes mid-January.
"Cupcakes have been increasingly popular during the last few years," said Mary Jane Jones, associate director for the culinary support kitchen. "Our students and staff members are always looking for new flavors, and Culinary Services is here to provide our customers with the items they have come to love as well as those among the latest trends."
The OU Bakery is a so-called "scratch bakery," which its website boasts is a "rare find amongst university dining services." They bake all of their treats fresh on a daily basis, using authentic, minimally processed ingredients, according to the website.
The over-sized cupcakes come in nine flavors: red velvet, triple chocolate, carrot, lemon, mandarin orange, marble, vanilla, spice and ho-ho cake.
Kent Scott, associate director of retail operations, confirmed that the cupcakes have been popular. "Our bakery-fresh cupcakes have been quite popular on campus, and word has spread very quickly about their availability. They go great with coffee or as a treat."
For those trying to limit their dessert intake, Scott said customers can opt for low-fat items, sugar-free cakes, or special-order items when needed. "Also, a lighter treat will be available starting on Valentine's Day with our new line of cake pops," he added.
OU sophomore Mallory Swope, self-proclaimed cupcake advocate, said that these new treats satisfy her yen for Crumbs Bakery cupcakes, her previous "go-to" for cupcakes. "I set out to West 82 to grab a healthy dinner, when I looked to my right and saw the downfall of my diet. I couldn't resist when I saw the red velvet one — it was delicious," she said.
Swope highly recommends the little cakes: "Even those dieting should try one; everyone deserves to treat themselves once in awhile."
Individual cupcakes cost $2.25, but larger quantities can be ordered through the Catering Office at 740-593-4035.
