O.C. shop wins Food Network's 'Cupcake Wars'

Casey's Cupcakes made their red carpet debut and took home top prize on Tuesday night's episode of "Cupcake Wars."

Four bakers from around the country competed on the Food Network show for a chance to share their cupcakes with guests at the 50th anniversary of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Casey's Cupcakes, which opened a Laguna Beach location last week, won after successfully baking their way through three cupcake challenges.

Casey Reinhardt boxes one of her Razzmatazz Raspberry cupcakes. Casey's Cupcakes will be featured Tuesday night on Food Network's "Cupcake Wars."

Owner Casey Reinhardt won the judges over with a White Russian cupcake, followed by white chocolate cherry, chili chocolate and lavender entries. The competition scores bakers on their cupcakes' taste, appearance and the final display of 1,000 of the treats. In her shops, Reinhardt said attention to detail is key, from décor and packaging to ingredients.

"A lot of thought goes into those cupcakes," she said.

During the day-long competition, judges looked for the best fit for the Hollywood event. In general, Casey's Cupcakes strives for a glamorous take on the popular dessert, Reinhardt said.

"It's like a magical experience when you walk into our cupcake shop," she said.

Details like sugar diamonds and 24-karat gold struck a chord with judges. Sprinkles founder Candace Nelson praised Reinhardt after one round.

"You talk about the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, and you certainly encapsulated that on this plate," Nelson said.

Reinhardt co-owns the business with parents Kelly and Duane Roberts. The Roberts, who are Laguna Beach residents, also own the Mission Inn in Riverside, which is home to the first Casey's Cupcakes location. Reinhardt said she was excited to open the second location in her family's hometown. In 2005, she also had a role on MTV's "Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County."

To celebrate her "Cupcake Wars" win, Reinhardt will visit both store locations Saturday, appearing in Laguna Beach noon-1 p.m. and in Riverside 3-4 p.m. The celebration will also feature entertainment, and the four winning flavors will be available for purchase Friday, Saturday and Sunday.