Thanksgiving cake ideas photos: Imagine a masterpiece of sweet indulgence, a culinary creation perfectly mirroring the warmth and joy of the season. From classic pumpkin pies to modern masterpieces, we’ll explore a spectrum of Thanksgiving cake designs. Prepare to be inspired by a visual feast, showcasing innovative decoration techniques and a treasure trove of delectable recipes. This journey into Thanksgiving cake artistry promises a delightful blend of inspiration and practical advice, guiding you toward baking a truly memorable Thanksgiving dessert.
This exploration delves into various Thanksgiving cake types, from traditional favorites to innovative modern variations. We’ll examine their flavor profiles and textures, and provide detailed instructions for their preparation. Visual inspiration will be paramount, showcasing exquisite decorations and creative photographic techniques. Furthermore, we’ll discuss key ingredients, preparation methods, and baking tips to ensure your Thanksgiving cake is not just beautiful but also delicious.
Finally, we’ll explore the art of cake photography, guiding you towards capturing the perfect image of your culinary creation.
Thanksgiving Cake Types
Thanksgiving, a celebration of harvest and gratitude, is incomplete without a delectable dessert. Cakes, in their various forms, are the perfect way to cap off a bountiful meal. The diverse range of Thanksgiving cakes reflects the multifaceted flavors and textures of the season. From classic favorites to modern twists, these cakes offer a delightful culinary journey for every palate.The choice of cake for Thanksgiving often hinges on the specific flavor preferences of the guests and the overall theme of the celebration.
Some prefer the comforting nostalgia of a traditional pumpkin spice cake, while others might be drawn to the exciting innovation of a cranberry-orange creation. Regardless of the chosen cake, the preparation process itself often becomes a cherished part of the Thanksgiving tradition, bringing families together and adding a touch of warmth to the festivities.
Traditional Thanksgiving Cake Types
A selection of traditional Thanksgiving cakes includes classic choices like pumpkin, apple, and pecan. These options often embody the comforting flavors and warm spices associated with the holiday. Pumpkin cake, for example, frequently features a rich, moist texture enhanced by the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Apple cake, similarly, often incorporates the crisp sweetness of apples with a delicate buttery flavor.
Pecan pie, with its distinctive nutty taste, offers a sophisticated complement to the Thanksgiving feast. These traditional cakes are often decorated with simple, yet elegant, designs that mirror the season’s bounty. Think autumnal leaves, or clusters of cranberries and pecans.
Modern Thanksgiving Cake Variations
Modern variations of Thanksgiving cakes bring a contemporary flair to the holiday. These innovations may feature unusual flavor combinations or unique textures that set them apart from traditional options. For example, a cranberry-orange cake offers a vibrant burst of citrus and tartness, balancing the richness of the cake. A spiced pear cake introduces a subtle sweetness and a delicate complexity of flavors.
These modern cakes often benefit from sophisticated designs that reflect the creativity and innovation of their bakers. Decorations may feature intricate patterns, fresh fruit arrangements, or even a touch of edible glitter.
Comparison Table of Thanksgiving Cake Types
| Cake Type | Ingredients | Preparation Time (approx.) | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin | Pumpkin puree, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger), flour, sugar, eggs | 1.5-2 hours (prep + bake) | Medium |
| Apple | Apples, flour, sugar, butter, cinnamon | 1-1.5 hours (prep + bake) | Medium |
| Pecan | Pecans, flour, sugar, butter, eggs | 1-1.5 hours (prep + bake) | Medium |
| Cranberry-Orange | Cranberries, oranges, flour, sugar, butter | 1-1.5 hours (prep + bake) | Medium |
| Spiced Pear | Pears, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg), flour, sugar, butter | 1-1.5 hours (prep + bake) | Medium |
The table above provides a general overview. Specific recipes and preparation times may vary. Factors like the size of the cake and the complexity of the design can influence the total time required. Ultimately, the best Thanksgiving cake is one that brings joy and happiness to those who partake in the celebration.
Cake Decoration Ideas
Thanksgiving cakes are more than just desserts; they’re works of art, embodying the spirit of the season. Transforming a simple cake into a magnificent centerpiece is a creative journey. This exploration delves into innovative decorations, offering techniques and inspiration for bringing your Thanksgiving cake visions to life.
Innovative Thanksgiving-Themed Decorations
Thanksgiving-themed decorations go beyond simple sprinkles. This section unveils imaginative designs, ensuring your cake stands out as a festive centerpiece. Consider incorporating elements that evoke the harvest, the family gathering, or the very spirit of gratitude.
- Feathered Thanksgiving: Create a visually stunning effect by meticulously arranging edible feathers, strategically placed to resemble a flock of birds. This effect can be further enhanced with fondant-crafted bird figurines or small, edible beads. These feathered elements, in varying tones of brown and gold, add a sophisticated touch.
- Gourmet Harvest Basket: Imagine a cake shaped like a rustic basket, overflowing with sculpted fondant fruits like cranberries, grapes, and apples. Arrange nuts like pecans and walnuts for a realistic, textured effect. This basket can be embellished with dried flowers for a touch of nature.
- Pumpkin Spice Symphony: A cake adorned with meticulously piped pumpkin spice designs in various shades of orange, accented with cinnamon sticks or miniature pumpkin candies, captures the essence of the season. This can be achieved using a piping bag and various piping tips for intricate designs.
Techniques for Achieving the Decorations
Mastering these decorations requires specific techniques. Thorough preparation and precise execution are key. Here, we explore the techniques essential for successful cake embellishment.
- Piping Mastery: Piping is a cornerstone of cake decoration. Using a piping bag fitted with various tips, you can create intricate designs. Practice your piping techniques with practice cakes before tackling your Thanksgiving masterpiece. Experiment with different pressures and speeds to achieve varied effects.
- Fondant Finesse: Fondant allows for intricate sculpting. By working with fondant, you can craft realistic depictions of fruits, vegetables, and other elements. Roll out fondant to desired thickness and shape with cookie cutters or sculpting tools for precision.
- Edible Paint and Glitter: Utilize edible paints and glitters to add vibrant colors and accents to your cake. This can bring a pop of color and sparkle to your design. Apply paint sparingly to avoid overwhelming the cake’s design.
Thanksgiving-Themed Designs with Seasonal Elements
Incorporating seasonal fruits, nuts, and candies elevates the cake’s visual appeal and enhances the Thanksgiving theme. This section details designs incorporating these elements.
- Cranberry and Pistachio Delight: A cake featuring a cranberry-pistachio design, with cranberries meticulously arranged and pistachio decorations for a festive twist, adds a unique touch. The vibrant red cranberries and the nutty pistachios create a harmonious color combination.
- Maple Pecan Symphony: A maple-pecan design, using maple-flavored decorations and scattered pecan pieces, embodies the essence of autumn. This design can be further embellished with maple syrup drizzle for a realistic, natural effect.
Cake Decoration Styles Table
This table showcases different Thanksgiving cake decoration styles with visual descriptions and suggested colors.
| Style | Visual Description | Suggested Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Rustic Harvest | A cake decorated with natural elements like leaves, fruits, and nuts, creating a warm and earthy feel. | Warm browns, deep oranges, greens, and golds |
| Modern Farmhouse | A clean, elegant design featuring geometric patterns and simple, yet sophisticated decorations. | Crisp whites, creams, muted pinks, and soft oranges |
| Gourmet Harvest | A cake with detailed, sculpted fondant elements of fruits and vegetables, conveying a sophisticated and refined Thanksgiving theme. | Vibrant reds, deep greens, rich browns, and golds |
Ingredients & Recipes
A Thanksgiving feast wouldn’t be complete without a magnificent cake to crown the table. The key to a truly memorable dessert lies not just in the chosen recipe, but in the careful selection and preparation of its ingredients. Understanding the nuances of each component allows for a tailored approach, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.The art of crafting a Thanksgiving cake goes beyond simple mixing.
Each ingredient plays a specific role, influencing the final outcome. From the subtle sweetness of sugar to the delicate tenderness of flour, each element contributes to the cake’s overall character. This exploration delves into the heart of these components, guiding you through the preparation methods for optimal results.
Essential Ingredients for Thanksgiving Cakes
Choosing the right ingredients is paramount to creating a Thanksgiving cake that truly shines. The combination of flavors and textures should complement the other dishes on the table, adding a special touch to the celebration.
- Flour: A fundamental building block, flour provides the structure and texture of the cake. Different types of flour, such as all-purpose, cake flour, or whole wheat, can significantly alter the outcome. Proper sifting ensures even distribution and a smoother final product.
- Sugar: Essential for sweetness and moisture. Granulated sugar provides a classic sweetness, while powdered sugar lends a delicate touch. The type of sugar and amount will influence the cake’s overall flavor profile. Granulated sugar is often used for its consistent sweetness, while powdered sugar adds a light, fluffy texture.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, contributing to the cake’s structure and richness. Room temperature eggs whisk more easily, resulting in a more tender cake. Separate yolks and whites for meringue-style cakes for a lighter texture.
- Butter/Oil: Fat is crucial for moisture and flavor. Butter provides a richer flavor, while oil contributes to a lighter texture. The type and amount of fat chosen will impact the cake’s final mouthfeel.
- Milk/Cream: Liquid ingredients add moisture and richness. Milk adds a creamy, balanced flavor, while cream provides a richer, more luxurious texture. The choice of liquid often influences the cake’s overall density.
- Baking Powder/Baking Soda: These leavening agents are essential for creating a light and airy cake. Baking powder is a versatile option, while baking soda is used in combination with acidic ingredients for a lift.
- Flavorings (Vanilla Extract, Spices): These enhance the cake’s overall flavor profile. Vanilla extract provides a classic, warm note, while spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth and depth, aligning with Thanksgiving’s flavors.
Preparation Methods for Ingredients
Proper preparation significantly impacts the final product’s quality. Following the correct procedures for each ingredient ensures a successful outcome.
- Flour: Sifting flour ensures even distribution of ingredients and removes any lumps. This results in a more uniform cake batter.
- Sugar: Whisk sugar with other ingredients to ensure even incorporation. This helps to create a smooth and consistent batter.
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs are essential for optimal mixing. This allows for better incorporation of the eggs into the batter.
- Butter/Oil: Creaming butter or oil with sugar until light and fluffy develops air pockets, resulting in a tender and moist cake.
- Milk/Cream: Measure liquids precisely to maintain consistency in the recipe.
- Baking Powder/Baking Soda: Measure accurately to ensure proper leavening. Adding these ingredients too early can alter the texture of the batter.
- Flavorings: Add extracts or spices at the appropriate time in the recipe to avoid overpowering other flavors.
Thanksgiving Cake Recipe Table
This table Artikels the ingredients and quantities for several Thanksgiving cake recipes. Remember to adjust quantities based on the desired size of your cake.
| Recipe Name | Flour (grams) | Sugar (grams) | Eggs | Butter (grams) | Milk (ml) | Vanilla Extract (ml) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Vanilla Cake | 150 | 180 | 3 | 100 | 100 | 1 |
| Spiced Pumpkin Cake | 175 | 200 | 3 | 120 | 120 | 1 |
| Cranberry Orange Cake | 160 | 190 | 3 | 110 | 110 | 1 |
Visual Inspiration
A Thanksgiving feast isn’t complete without a visually stunning cake. Beyond the taste, the visual appeal elevates the entire experience. This section delves into the artistry of creating a Thanksgiving cake that’s not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes.Visual appeal extends beyond the cake’s design; it’s about the entire presentation. Lighting and background elements play a crucial role in setting the mood and highlighting the cake’s details.
A well-chosen backdrop and strategic lighting can transform a simple cake into a work of art.
Color Schemes
Thanksgiving palettes offer a range of possibilities. From classic autumnal hues to more modern interpretations, the color scheme sets the tone for the entire display. A carefully considered color scheme will bring out the cake’s textures and details.
| Color Scheme | Visual Elements |
|---|---|
| Rustic Autumnal (Warm Tones) | Earthy tones like burnt orange, deep red, golden yellow, and muted browns. Consider incorporating leaves, acorns, or gourds as visual elements. Use warm lighting to enhance the natural tones. |
| Vibrant Fall (Bold Tones) | Deep crimson, fiery orange, and sunny yellow. These bold colors create a dramatic effect. Use contrasting textures like frosted buttercream or edible flowers. |
| Modern Thanksgiving (Neutral Tones) | A more contemporary approach might involve creamy whites, soft beiges, and subtle gold accents. Focus on clean lines and elegant designs. Use cool lighting to highlight the smoothness of the cake. |
| Gourmet Fall (Rich Tones) | Rich, deep burgundy, deep plums, and forest green tones. These colors evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication. Consider incorporating elements of fall foliage, berries, or elegant frosting. |
Cake Decoration Ideas
The cake’s decoration is crucial in creating a visually stunning centerpiece. Think about textures, shapes, and elements that reflect the Thanksgiving spirit. This section provides inspiration for decorating your Thanksgiving masterpiece.
- Nature-Inspired Designs: Incorporate elements like fall leaves, berries, or edible flowers. These elements add a natural touch, reflecting the harvest season. Consider using a muted color palette to enhance the natural tones.
- Geometric Patterns: Geometric patterns offer a modern twist on a classic dessert. Use frosting to create intricate designs or incorporate elements like piped rosettes or sculpted elements.
- Figurative Representations: A Thanksgiving-themed figurine, such as a turkey or cornucopia, can add a playful and memorable touch to the cake’s design. This adds a unique element and creates a conversation starter.
Lighting and Background
The way a cake is presented is as important as the cake itself. Proper lighting and a well-chosen backdrop can transform a simple cake into a captivating centerpiece. These factors enhance the visual impact and create a more immersive experience.
- Ambient Lighting: Use warm, diffused lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This enhances the colors and textures of the cake, bringing out the natural beauty of the design.
- Background Elements: A carefully selected backdrop can complement the cake’s design. Consider using a neutral tablecloth, wooden planks, or a fall-themed backdrop. This helps create a harmonious and visually appealing presentation.
- Strategic Placement: Position the cake in a way that maximizes its visual impact. Place it on a sturdy stand or a platform to elevate it, drawing attention to its artistry.
Tips & Tricks
Crafting the perfect Thanksgiving cake involves more than just a recipe; it’s about mastering techniques and understanding the nuances of baking. These tips and tricks will elevate your cake from good to extraordinary, ensuring a delicious and visually stunning centerpiece for your feast. From achieving a moist crumb to mastering frosting techniques, these insights will empower you to create a truly unforgettable dessert.Baking a cake is an art, a science, and a delightful journey.
Common pitfalls can be avoided by understanding the elements that contribute to a successful bake. Learning how to overcome these challenges will transform you from a novice baker into a confident artisan, able to whip up a perfect Thanksgiving cake every time.
Achieving Moistness and Flavor
Achieving a truly moist and flavorful cake involves careful attention to ingredient quality and precise baking techniques. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients like butter and eggs, along with a good recipe, will significantly impact the final result. Remember, the freshest ingredients will contribute to the most delectable outcome.
Mastering Mixing Techniques
Proper mixing is crucial for achieving a light and airy cake texture. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix ingredients until just combined, avoiding excessive mixing. Creaming butter and sugar together thoroughly is essential for incorporating air and creating a tender crumb. A whisk or spatula, depending on the recipe, is the ideal tool to ensure proper mixing without overdoing it.
Perfecting Frosting Application
Frosting application is where the cake truly comes to life. The right consistency is key. Too runny, and the frosting will slide off; too thick, and it won’t spread smoothly. Start with a thinner consistency and add a little more icing as needed, working from the center outwards. A piping bag is a fantastic tool for creating intricate designs, but a spatula can also be used for a smooth, even coat.
Avoiding Common Baking Mistakes
Overbaking is a frequent error that leads to dry cakes. Use a toothpick test to check for doneness; it should come out clean. Uneven baking can also occur if the oven isn’t preheated correctly. Preheating the oven to the specified temperature is crucial to ensure even heat distribution throughout the baking process. Also, ensure your oven is calibrated for accurate results.
Baking Tips & Tricks, Thanksgiving cake ideas photos
| Task | Tips & Tricks |
|---|---|
| Mixing |
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| Frosting |
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| Baking |
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| Storage |
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Cake Photography Ideas
Turning your Thanksgiving cake masterpiece into a visual feast is just as important as the taste! A well-composed photograph can capture the artistry and deliciousness, sharing the joy with friends and family far and wide. These tips will guide you in transforming your Thanksgiving cake from a delicious treat to a delightful digital memory.A winning Thanksgiving cake photo isn’t just about the cake itself; it’s about the whole presentation.
Think about the mood you want to evoke – warm, inviting, festive. The right lighting, angle, and background can transform an ordinary image into a stunning work of art. Careful attention to detail elevates the photograph from a snapshot to a cherished keepsake.
Capturing the Essence of the Cake
The key to capturing the beauty of your Thanksgiving cake is to highlight its unique features. Focus on the intricate details of the frosting, the vibrant colors of the filling, and the overall artistry. A shallow depth of field can blur the background, drawing attention to the cake’s textures and design. The right lighting can bring out the subtle nuances of the frosting, showcasing the subtle shades of cream or the sparkle of edible glitter.
Mastering Angles and Lighting
The angle from which you photograph the cake significantly impacts the visual appeal. Experiment with different perspectives: straight-on shots, slightly elevated views, or even a slightly tilted angle. Each perspective offers a different aesthetic. Natural light, such as soft daylight, is ideal for cake photography, as it casts gentle shadows and highlights the textures beautifully. Avoid harsh, direct sunlight, which can create strong shadows and wash out details.
Consider using a reflector to bounce light back onto the cake and soften any harsh shadows.
Choosing the Perfect Background
The background plays a crucial role in setting the scene for your Thanksgiving cake photograph. A simple, neutral backdrop, such as a plain white tablecloth or a subtle pastel color, allows the cake to be the star. Avoid busy patterns or distracting colors that might compete with the cake’s design. Consider using a wooden surface, or a patterned tablecloth with a complementary color scheme to the cake’s design.
For a more rustic Thanksgiving theme, consider a wooden plank or a burlap tablecloth.
Technical Techniques for Highlighting Details
Using a tripod is essential for achieving sharp, clear images, especially when working with a shallow depth of field. This eliminates camera shake and ensures the cake’s delicate details are in focus. Adjusting the camera’s aperture controls the depth of field. A smaller aperture (higher f-number) will keep more of the cake in focus, while a larger aperture (lower f-number) will create a more dramatic blur, emphasizing the cake’s main features.
The use of a macro lens can enhance the texture of the cake’s frosting and other decorations, bringing out the minute details.
Camera Settings and Lighting Setups
| Setting | Description | Ideal Value |
|---|---|---|
| Aperture (f-stop) | Controls depth of field | f/8 to f/16 |
| Shutter Speed | Controls motion blur | 1/125 to 1/250 sec |
| ISO | Controls sensitivity to light | 100 to 400 |
| White Balance | Adjusts color temperature | Auto or Daylight |
| Lighting Setup | Type of light source | Soft natural light, diffused light from a window |
These settings are starting points; adjust them based on the specific lighting conditions and your desired effect. Remember to experiment and have fun with it!
Comparison of Thanksgiving Cake Styles: Thanksgiving Cake Ideas Photos
Thanksgiving, a celebration of abundance and gratitude, is often accompanied by a delectable centerpiece: the Thanksgiving cake. Beyond the traditional, a spectrum of styles emerges, each with its own unique character and appeal. From rustic charm to modern elegance, the choice reflects the spirit of the occasion and the baker’s vision.Thanksgiving cake styles offer a diverse range of options, allowing bakers to express their creativity and match the overall aesthetic of the celebration.
Each style, from the simple elegance of a modern design to the rustic charm of a homemade masterpiece, speaks volumes about the celebration’s ambiance and the baker’s personality.
Rustic Thanksgiving Cakes
Rustic Thanksgiving cakes often embrace a natural, homemade feel. They celebrate simplicity and the warmth of homemade ingredients. These cakes frequently feature natural colors, like warm browns and creams, mimicking the tones of autumn leaves and harvest bounty. They might incorporate elements like burlap, dried flowers, or sprigs of herbs, creating a comforting, inviting atmosphere. Techniques often involve showcasing the natural beauty of the cake’s texture, perhaps with a visible crumb coat or a slightly uneven frosting application.
The appeal lies in their genuine charm and connection to traditional baking practices.
Modern Thanksgiving Cakes
Modern Thanksgiving cakes lean towards clean lines, contemporary designs, and a sophisticated aesthetic. These cakes often utilize smooth, even frosting applications in a range of colors, complementing the cake’s texture. Geometric patterns or abstract designs might be incorporated, along with minimalist embellishments. Techniques involve precise frosting application, creating a sharp contrast between the clean lines and the cake’s structure.
The appeal of a modern cake lies in its sleek presentation and contemporary feel.
Elaborate Thanksgiving Cakes
Elaborate Thanksgiving cakes are a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and intricate detail. These cakes often incorporate multiple tiers, intricate frosting designs, and sculpted elements, reminiscent of architectural flourishes. They might incorporate edible figurines or detailed floral arrangements. Techniques involve advanced cake-decorating skills and an understanding of structural support to maintain the cake’s integrity. The appeal lies in the sheer artistry and spectacle of these cakes, often exceeding the size of a single tier.
Thanksgiving Cake Style Comparison
| Style | Aesthetic | Complexity | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rustic | Natural, homemade, warm | Lower | Easy to Medium |
| Modern | Clean, contemporary, sleek | Medium | Medium to High |
| Elaborate | Intricate, detailed, architectural | High | High |
Modern Thanksgiving Cake Trends
Thanksgiving, a time for family, gratitude, and delectable desserts, is seeing exciting shifts in cake design. This evolution reflects broader culinary trends, embracing innovation while honoring tradition. From intricate details to unexpected flavor combinations, modern Thanksgiving cakes are a testament to the creativity and passion of bakers.
Emerging Design Elements
Modern Thanksgiving cakes are moving beyond the traditional tiered designs, showcasing a variety of styles. Geometric patterns, incorporating sharp lines and clean shapes, are becoming increasingly popular. This aesthetic is complemented by the use of fresh, vibrant colors, derived from seasonal fruits and vegetables, that add a pop of autumnal delight. Sculptural elements, like miniature gourds or detailed leaves, add visual interest and create a sense of playful artistry.
This artistry is also reflected in the use of non-traditional cake bases, like croissants or cookies, to give the cake a unique presentation.
Influencing Factors
Several factors are driving these trends. The rise of social media platforms, where visually appealing content goes viral, has significantly influenced cake design. A desire for visually stunning and Instagram-worthy creations is prompting bakers to push creative boundaries. Furthermore, a growing interest in unique flavor profiles, combined with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, is encouraging the exploration of innovative cake recipes.
Incorporating Modern Elements
Transforming a traditional Thanksgiving cake into a modern masterpiece involves strategic choices. Consider replacing a classic buttercream frosting with a textured, contrasting glaze, perhaps a vibrant orange or deep crimson. Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables, like cranberries, pumpkins, and gourds, not just for decoration, but as flavor components in the cake itself. Adding miniature sculptures or incorporating a non-traditional base can dramatically alter the cake’s aesthetic appeal.
Remember, the key is to maintain the essence of Thanksgiving while injecting contemporary flair.
Example Cakes Reflecting Trends
One example is a cake featuring a sculpted pumpkin, meticulously crafted from the cake’s frosting. The cake’s base is made of a spiced pumpkin bread, with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. The cake is decorated with fresh cranberries and orange zest, in a geometric design. Another intriguing example is a multi-tiered cake where each tier is crafted from a different flavor of cake, showcasing a range of autumnal tastes, like apple, pecan, and cinnamon.
The frosting is a contrasting color palette, such as a rich caramel and a light, creamy vanilla. The layers are separated by a lattice design made of fresh leaves, enhancing the visual appeal.
