Budget Baking in Malta
Making Cakes for your family and friends instead of buying a ready made cake? Here are some tips on where to start.
Malta is a beautiful and scenic island located in Europe, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. The Maltese are known for their rich history and culture, including their cuisine. If you love to bake, living on a budget in Malta doesn’t mean you have to compromise on making delicious and beautiful cakes. Here are some tips on how to make cakes on a budget while living in Malta, Europe.
- Shop Smartly
One of the keys to making cakes on a budget in Malta is to shop smartly. The island is home to a variety of supermarkets, and the prices can vary greatly from one store to another. To save money, compare prices and choose the stores that offer the best value for money. Chocolate tends to go on sale, and since I use it in bulk, I always keep an eye out.
You can also look for discounted items or special deals, such as buy-one-get-one-free offers, to stretch your budget further. Make sure to always check the expiration date before buying in bulk. When it comes to fresh produce, a good place for deals is the marketplace, also known as ‘il-Monti’ and which brings us to the next point –
- Use Local Ingredients
Malta is known for its delicious fresh produce, including fruits, nuts, and dairy products. By using local ingredients, you can save money and support local farmers and producers at the same time. For example, you can use locally-grown almonds to make almond cakes, or fresh Maltese strawberries to decorate your cakes. You are sure to find these delicacies in our early morning markets, which pop up all over the island including Birgu, Marsaxlokk, Valletta, Birkirkara, Qormi and many more. If you wake up really early on a Saturday you can catch the freshest picks at ta’ Qali – during the Farmer’s Market. Fresh local honey, fruits and eggs will create next-level bakes, and that’s a promise!
- Repurpose Leftover Ingredients
Another way to save money when making cakes is to repurpose leftover ingredients. For example, if you have leftover fruits, nuts, or chocolate, you can incorporate them into your cake batter or frosting. This not only reduces waste but also adds more flavor and texture to your cakes. Make sure to get the ratios right so that the recipe isn’t thrown off.
4. Use Simple Decorations
Decorations can make a cake look beautiful and impressive, but they can also be expensive. To save money, consider using simple decorations that are easy to make or readily available in your kitchen. For example, you can use fresh fruits, fresh flowers, or chocolate shavings to decorate your cakes. Something that elevates a cake’s aesthetic immediately is a little melted chocolate drip around the edges of your cake.
- Bake from Scratch
Baking from scratch is not only healthier and tastier but also more cost-effective than buying pre-made mixes or cakes. By using basic ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, you can create a variety of cakes and desserts without breaking the bank. You can also experiment with different flavors and textures to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
Remember to always sieve your flour, use room temperature eggs and butters and to accurately weigh everything. Always pre-heat your oven and follow the recipe as accurately as you can. Making cakes on a budget in Malta, is possible with a little creativity and planning. With practice, you can create delicious and beautiful cakes without overspending. So, the next time you feel the urge to bake a cake, keep these tips in mind and enjoy the process of creating something special and memorable on a budget.
