Let’s face it, beautiful baked goods are an important part of a festive holiday celebration. And nobody puts the flair and dedication in delectable treats quite like Buddy “The Cake Boss” Valastro. So I caught up with the owner of Carlo’s Bakery and the Venetian Las Vegas restaurant Buddy V’s to get the inside scoop on his holiday baking. The enthusiastic king of frosting was equally as enthusiastic about the busy holiday season. Says Valastro, “I love the bakery during Christmastime. There’s such a happy, festive feeling. Everyone’s excited to get their Christmas cookies and cakes. Making the festive items is a lot of fun, so it’s really satisfying for me to see people enjoying them.”
What is the most popular item ordered at Carlo’s Bakery this season?
Even during the holidays, the lobster tail is still the most popular item. You know, I think it’s because it’s unique, you can bring a nice tray to parties and they’re delicious.
What is the most popular Christmas cookie ordered at Carlo’s?
I think our chocolate-dipped Christmas cookies and our gingerbread cookies are tied. Both are classics and really festive. They make you feel the holiday spirit, you know?
How many pounds of butter and sugar are used in December?
Wow… you sure you want to know? We will use over 20,000 pounds of each for December.
Do you have to increase baking hours and staff for the holidays?
The holidays are definitely a busy time for us, so we have to bake a little longer as we get closer to Christmas, but we’re used to it!
What is your favorite Christmas cookie?
My favorite are the chocolate-dipped cookies. I used to make them with my dad and today I make them with my kids. No Christmas at my house is complete without them!
Nancy Berk, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, author, comic and entertainment analyst. The host of the showbiz podcast Whine At 9, Nancy digs a little deeper as she chats with fascinating celebrities and industry insiders. Her book College Bound and Gagged: How to Help Your Kid Get into a Great College Without Losing Your Savings, Your Relationship, or Your Mind can be seen in the feature film Admission starring Tina Fey and Paul Rudd.
View the original at Parade or follow us on Twitter, Facebook or Google+