Walking into Cream & Flutter may make you feel like you’ve just stepped into Anthropologie-which should come as no surprise given that Cream & Flutter currently partners with Anthropologie’s bridal brand, BHLDN, to create and design inspirational work. Unfortunately, there isn’t an Anthropologie in Chambana (yet), but Cream & Flutter definitely makes up for it, located at Walnut and Chester, a stone’s throw away from the Illinois Terminal.
Photo by David Cui
For Cream & Flutter owner Amanda Wyatt, cupcakes are more than just goods to be sold; they serve as an outlet for her creativity. After working as a general engineer for eight years, Wyatt realized that she wanted to start her own business. So, with her sister, she established Cream & Flutter. The shop curates a collection of coffee, desserts and other merchandise (including T-shirts!) meant to reflect the changing of the seasons.
Photo by David Cui
Wyatt, who came up with each Cream & Flutter recipe from scratch, used to spend hours in the kitchen engineering these recipes as if she were in a science lab. As she experimented, she tried to keep as many variables, or ingredients, as stable and consistent as possible; she ended up finalizing her first few recipes after twenty to thirty trials. Now, Wyatt has gotten her recipe formations down to less than ten variations per list of ingredients. Her secret? Simplicity.
Photo by David Cui
“You don’t need expensive sugar or flour,” Wyatt said. “Spend the extra dollar or two on good quality butter and vanilla. Add homemade frosting.” I decided to try a red velvet cupcake, one of Cream & Flutter’s most popular treats. The verdict? It was absolutely amazing.
Photo by David Cui
Next time you have a big paper to write or a birthday to celebrate, consider indulging yourself with a trip to Cream & Flutter. I can guarantee that the whimsical decor and exquisite selection of desserts and drinks will keep you content for hours… and may triple your time at the gym as a result!
[Pandamonium Donuts, aka the best donuts ever, is having a pop-up shop at Cream & Flutter from 10AM – sold out on April 12, 13, 26, and 27! Stop by to taste two of Champaign-Urbana’s best baked goods!]
Location: 114 N Walnut St, Champaign, IL
Hours of operation: Mon-Thu: 11:30 am-9 pm, Fri-Sat: 11:30 am-10 pm, Sunday: 1 pm-8 pm