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Latest birthday craze: 3D jelly cakes! This creative mom is slaying these crafted confections

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Too good to eat? via siewheng83.
Too good to eat? via siewheng83.

You may not know exactly what you're looking at when first stumbling across these incredible edible creations, but just stick around and you'll be amazed.  

They're the work of artisan Siew Heng Boon, and not only are they striking pieces of art, they're also edible. 



Also see:  What this mom does with food will have you questioning what you've been doing with your life

What's the most complicated cake you've attempted to make for your child's birthday? What was the result? Tell us about your cake success (or failures), and we and we could publish your letter. Do let us know if you'd like to stay anonymous. 


The mom of two has made digital waves with her unique creations known as 3D jelly cakes, and for good reason. 

A popular practice in South-East Asia, the cakes are made from seaweed jelly powder and a combination of both artificial and natural colouring. 




 Also see: IN PICTURES: The way this dad captures family life blows our minds

The intricate cake designs take up to 4 hours to complete and feature a variety of flowers, fish and even air bubbles all made to resemble garden ponds. 

Starting with a clear gelatin 'canvas', the decorative elements are crafted and inserted into the already set clear jelly using syringe-like tools, resulting in the suspended look of the end product. 

Oh, and all of this is done upside down! 

Take a look at the mesmerising process below:  

Practising since 2016, Siew came across the art form while visiting her mother in Malaysia and was hooked after taking her first course. 

In 2017, Siew was diagnosed with stage-3 breast cancer but she remained determined to continue crafting, using her creativity to cope with the painful treatment. 

In an interview with Catersnews.com, Siew recounted the experience: 

“On the days that I was feeling better, I dedicated my time to craft 3D jelly cakes for my carers and doctors. 
“Free from the confines of time and pressure and with the aim of expressing my feelings, my designs actually got better.
“I had found that during my battle with breast cancer, focusing on creating beauty helped steer me away from the physical pain and dark thoughts.
“It helped me maintain positive throughout my journey.”

The inspiring mom now heads her own business, Jelly Alchemy, and continues to showcase her wonderful talent via Facebook and Instagram.  

Her work has clearly influenced a new cake trend, with many other artisans showing off their 3D creations via social media. Who knows, maybe we'll see the trend take off in South Africa? 

Here's a look: 



Chat back:

What's the most complicated cake you've attempted to make for your child's birthday? What was the result? Tell us about your cake successes (or failures), and we could publish your letter. Do let us know if you'd like to stay anonymous. 

Read more:

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