Cupcake critics like to highlight the absurdity of the high prices, market saturation, endless lines, and preposterous pretentiousness (“garnished with 24K gold leaf”!) by pointing out that “you can bake them at home for a fraction of the price” (or some such variation of the sentiment).

No no, says the cupcake industry. You will not save money by baking at home, because now you will buy these twee little cupcake cases to distribute your baked goods. The Crystal Clear Cupcake Boxes are acid-free and “ideal for cupcake presentation.” And nearly 60 bucks for 100 single boxes. With the cost of ingredients and cake mix, that ideally presented, home-baked treat now nearly breaks even with Georgetown Cupcake. STEER CLEAR.