The Cake Boss is in the house

PETER TROMP spoke to BUDDY VALASTRO, the one and only Cake Boss from the hit TV show of the same name, about star struck fans, the most complex cake he has ever made and about finally hooking up with his SA fans from Facebook at the Good Food & Wine Show on May 24 and 25 at the CTICC.
How do you feel about visiting South Africa? Were you aware at all that you had a following here?
I’m very excited for the trip. You know, I’ve been able to connect with my South African fans on Facebook, but I can really get to know them during this visit.
How different are you in real life from your persona on ‘The Cake Boss’?
No different! The show catches me as I am every day. There’s no acting here.
What can visitors to the Chefs in Action Theatre at the Good Food & Wine show expect from you in your slot?
My show is gonna be great. I’ll be sharing my personal story, cooking live and I get to interact with the audience. We’re going to make a fun themed cake.
Did you ever imagine that your confectionary skills would make you a TV star?
I always strive to make Carlo’s (Bake Shop) bigger and better. Carlo’s started with a love and talent for baking and it’s great that the show can share that with other people.
You have made some outlandishly complex cakes on your TV show, but what has been the most challenging request you have ever taken on?
The cake I did for NASCAR. It took over 2500 sheet cakes to replicate an actual race car. I lost some sleep with that one.
After so many tremendous challenges over the years, do you still get pleasure from making more ordinary cakes?
I will always love making classic cakes. The bigger projects are exciting, but it’s great to go back to the basics sometimes.
As someone who makes such fabulous desserts, do you actually have a sweet tooth? If so, what are some of your favourite desserts to consume?
Definitely! As a baker, I think you have to. My favorites would have to be Lobster Tails and cannolis – of course.
What is the most star struck a fan of yours has ever been when they met you in person?
Kids are always hilarious. I love how excited they get when I tell them about the cakes and show them what we’re working on during tours.
What do you think of the current proliferation of food celebrities? Is it a good or a bad thing that there are so many foodie stars and that the number continues to grow so rapidly?
Coming from the culinary world, I like seeing more shows focused on food. It’s great that people are so interested. Being able to share your passion for food with an audience is an awesome opportunity.
Is there anything else you are a boss at that people might not know about?
Fishing. I love it.
* Get your tickets for the Good Food & Wine Show at Computicket. Visit www.goodfoodandwineshow.co.za for more information.

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