There has only been one bakery around Pittsburgh that, in my wildly ignored opinion, has made a cupcake that is 5-star quality (and please, it's not Dozen). Because I'm so used to disappointment, I tend to go into new cupcake experiences with very low expectations.
Especially when it's nearly 10PM and I stop into Le Petit Chocolat for the first time with some friends after a show at the Rex. The cupcakes certainly had The Look -- the frosting was vibrant and smooth with a nice height, and the flavor combinations were a mix of classics and adventurous without being ridiculous.
I bought the Plain Jane and Strawberry Shortcake, even though I wanted to buy them ALL. And after splitting these two with my son when I got home later that night, now I'm sorry that I didn't buy them ALL. These were some damn fine cupcakes, you guys. The frosting was on point and the cake was moist, yet firm---there's such a fine line between "Betty Crocker" and "day old cornbread" when it comes to cupcake texture. I liked that these cupcakes didn't come off as "trying too hard" -- they shine in their simplicity. And considering I bought these 10 minutes before closing time, I imagine that an even fresher batch would bring me to my knees.
I just went to Le Petit's website and saw that my favorite flavor combo is available: lemon lavender. I live way too close to this place. This is about to get dangerous. (And I haven't even tried any of the chocolate yet!)