As a kid, I always looked forward to the house that gave out the full-sized versions of my favorite candy bars on Halloween. I fantasized of a day (maybe next year?) when every house would do the same. My trove would be so heavy, I’d have to return home to empty it out before embarking on the other half of the neighborhood. Obviously, that day never came. Whoever thought of “fun size” dashed those dreams, and I’ve been on my own to amass a respectable amount of chocolate every year. When I was younger that meant a fair share of doorbell ringing; now, it’s grocery store stock piling. But tonight, things took a turn. I made a discovery – Sweet Mandy B’s. And I will forever view this holiday differently.
I’d heard tell of a cupcake Mecca, but wasn’t sure how to get there. On a whim, I got off at the Fullerton red line stop because I’d heard the place was near. I asked a few directions, walked a few blocks and found my way to Mandy’s door — invitingly outstretched, I might add. Inside were more than cupcakes . . . much, much more.
There were sugar cookies of pumpkins and bats, dream bars, peanut butter bars and puddings. Cupcakes of all colors clustered together like a vibrant bouquet and were just as fragrant. It was a near sensory overload — similar to how I felt when presented with the opportunity to choose one of my favorite big size candy bars during holidays past. But now, I didn’t have to choose just one. So I didn’t.
I got a pink cupcake, two flourless chocolate cupcakes, a peanut butter bar, a double chocolate cookie and a pumpkin sugar cookie (which is not pictured because I ate it). What’s best is everything is its proper size. Now these are admittedly treats for the big girls (note the double entendre) because unlike Halloweens past, I won’t be eating half my loot in one sitting. I plan to stretch these goodies out over two days — maybe three, thus allowing ample time for middle to accommodate these new friends. And I will feel no guilt. I’ve put up with samples too long.
