Great gift idea: Cupcakes in a jar

The company's only product line (well, at the moment) sounds so simple: single-serve cupcakes in a jar, delivered via mail order. But to even think of these babies as being anything like store-bought cupcakes would be akin to assuming a 99-cent fast food burger actually compares to a ground sirloin sandwich at a swanky steakhouse.

After stumbling upon the mom-and-pop shop on Etsy several months ago, we have personally tried and tested several varieties of Fat Daddy's goods... and can attest to the fact that their quality and flavor -- not to mention the fun product names and cute packaging -- make them worth the premium price (4 jars for $26 plus shipping) when it's time for something special.

The from-scratch cupcake treats are layered with real buttercream (or cream cheese) frosting along with various decadent toppings. Each one comes to you in a 1/2 pint glass jar (8 oz) and offers 2-3 servings.

There are about 25 flavors available at any given time, which vary with the season, and some of our in-stock favorites include PMS/Chocolate Overload, Carmel Apple Attack, Macadamia SnowCake, Santa's Secret Reindeer Snack, and Candy Cane Christmas Party. Alas, our very favorite, Smooth Criminal (chocolate/caramel/toffee heaven) won't be back until next year.

Ready for your treat? You can order a custom batch online at the Fat Daddy Loves You Bake shop, via Etsy.com -- and Chicagoans can look forward to a Fat Daddy retail shop next spring.