Dairy-Deli-Bake 2012

Ice cream cones, sundae-style toppings, cereal, bacon and jalapenos were just some of the crazy toppings adorning on-trend gourmet donuts at this year’s Dairy-Deli-Bake Expo.

TV personality, restaurateur and author Paula Deen addressed a packed theater during her keynote address. “You have a great responsibility to your customers,” she said.

Andria Chinander, Lund Food Holding (Byerly’s) preps a cupcake cake during the 17th annual Cake Decorating Challenge. Chinander won first place.

Stacie Clawson, Wal-Mart, placed sculpted jungle animal cupcakes on a display during the 17th annual Cake Decorating Challenge. Clawson placed third overall.

Amy Murtha, Hy-Vee Inc., added the finishing touches to one of her decorated cakes during the 17th annual Cake Decorating Challenge. Murtha placed second.

Nary a dull moment on the bustling show floor at Dairy-Deli-Bake. This year’s expo had 1,610 exhibitor booths and 8,576 attendees.

ling and bright colors were a common sight on decorated cakes and cupcakes at this year’s expo.

Amy Murtha’s (Hy-Vee) wedding cake entry in the Cake Decorating Challenge.

Buddy Valastro demonstrated cakes from his new supermarket line. Show-goers stood in long lines for photos with the Cake Boss.

Carol Christison, executive director of the International-Dairy-Deli-Bakery Association, addressed attendees in her annual speech about the latest trends impacting the food retailing market.

Political commentator and former vice presidential candidate for the Republican party Sarah Palin gave her keynote speech before a crowded theater on June 11 during Dairy-Deli-Bake.

By understanding each generation’s unique quirks, you can market more effectively to them, Jane Buckingham, Gen X, Y and Z expert, told attendees during her session, “Bridging the Generational Divide.”

Andria Chinander’s (Byerly’s) wedding cake entry in the Cake Decorating Challenge.

Stacie Clawson’s (Walmart) wedding cake entry in the Cake Decorating Challenge.

IDDBA executive director Carol Christison hosted the awards presentation on the last day of the expo. IDDBA president Steve Beekhuizen presented the trophies.

From left: Second place winner Amy Murtha (Hy-Vee), IDDBA president Steve Beekhuizen, first place winner Andria Chinander (Byerly’s) and third place winner Stacie Clawson (Walmart).