The Icing on the Cake
Frank Broderick of Brudair’s Bakery Dromcollogher was faced with over seventy pupils yet was unfazed at the prospect of 140 glaring eyes as he set about using his expertise and craftsmanship in cake decorating. The group consisted of senior cycle students from fifth year and transition year. The transition year students paid particular attention as they will be getting their chance to showcase their skills in Home Economics in the following weeks, when they will bake and decorate their own Christmas cakes. The speed and accuracy of Frank’s craft was hypnotising, but after this masterclass it will be hard to replicate as this man has hand skills that would rival a certain cheating Frenchman!!
Frank’s wit and charisma was evident throughout the demonstration as he wowed students and staff with different aspects of cake decorating. These included basic icing techniques using royal and fondant icing, almond paste work, colouring, piping and foliage work. Students benefited as Frank shared hints, tips and practical advice on cake decorating and solutions to cake decorating problems. He demonstrated with great enthusiasm and willingly answered our questions throughout the morning. Frank plays a pivotal role in the community, not only satisfying various taste buds but also training and employing many people from the immediate and surrounding areas. Ms. Daly would like to sincerely thank Frank for taking time out of his hectic schedule especially in the run up to Christmas and for inspiring the next generation of sugar craft enthusiasts.
Front row: Siobhan O’ Sullivan, Aimee Enright, Marcella Moloney, Letitia Noonan, Jennifer Kiely
Back row: Ms. Dolan (vice principal), David O’ Donnell, Frank Broderick, Diarmuid Coleman, Mr. Burke(principal)
