Nibbling the Edge of Food Quirks

I love catalogs. Yesterday I received the newest copy of Current in my mailbox. I remember when Current was known for their designer checks; now their catalog pages pop with wrapping paper, mop slippers, cookbooks and seasonal socks. As I perused the pages, a particular image caught my eye; it was called the Brownie Edge Pan and it looked magical. A self-professed brownie devotee, my mouth watered at the prospect of delicious chewy edges on every piece. Ingenious! The person who invented this non-stick carbon-steel marvel was really thinking.... I often see products like these and wonder, "Why can't I come up with ideas like that?" It seems like such a simple solution - if you like the edge pieces, why not create a pan that bakes a brownie with more edgy delights? Another fantastic idea? The Muffin Top Maker. Brilliant. I remember watching the Seinfeld episode that features Elaine's former boss, Mr. Lippman, opening the store, "Top of the Muffin to You!" I was intrigued by the idea and wondered why no one had developed a pan to create these crispy gems. Voila! No more pesky muffin stumps.

I was always the kid who ate the crust first and then enjoyed the cheesy pizza topping. At birthday parties, I carefully removed the cake frosting to be savored after that bothersome cake was consumed. I faintly remember sitting by the pool, gnawing the chocolate coating off 3 Musketeers candy bar; there was something delectable about uncovering the fluffy inner log, which- by that time - was completely gooey and half-melted in the sweltering summer sun. I even disassembled my Happy Meal cheeseburgers, eating the buns first and then carefully nibbling the bald brown burger. I no longer dissect my pizza or dismember my burgers, but I do think my fascination with the Brownie Edge Pan and the Muffin Top Maker might be a result of my childhood eating quirks. I must confess that, to this day, I still save the frosting for last when I eat cake. I was thinking about developing a product that would eliminate the cake portion, leaving only the creamy coating. But then I remembered it's already been invented. Anyone want to grab a spoon and join me?