Amoroso’s Bakery in North Carolina, US, is experiencing a boom in business after adding a ‘cupcake milkshake’ to the menu.

As the name suggests, the milkshake is made by placing a cupcake – icing and all – in a blender, along with ice cream and milk.

Amoroso’s Bakery owner Ralph Amoroso said the idea started off as a way to use day-old products.

“It was a way to push our leftover cupcakes, but it quickly became a popular item. So now, customers pick a fresh cupcake from the case and we turn it into a milkshake,” Ralph told Australian Baking Business.

“I think it’s a great idea that anyone could use to add to their revenue stream. Customers love new and unusual products.”

For Ralph, evolving the bakery’s product offer is an essential way to keep customers coming through the door.

“I do a lot of research on the baking industry via the internet, industry magazines and television shows. I’m always looking for new ways to satisfy the customer,” Ralph said.

“If they want something we currently don’t make, I’ll research the item, come up with a recipe and give it a shot. If it works out, the customer loves the fact we took the time to give them the product they wanted. If it doesn’t work, we’ll try to turn it into something else

“I don’t ever want to think I am better than my customers. They make us or break us. I’m just trying to be a good, old-fashioned, neighbourhood bakery.”