This sweetie takes the cake

Chocolates aren't the only edible way to say "I love you."

Consider the celebrated red velvet cake from Carousel, which teams three tender layers of cherry-colored chocolate between thick, dense gobs of unabashedly sweet cream cheese frosting. This time of year, the cake is topped with a pair of red hearts. The sides are studded with white, red and pink sprinkles.

This cake first gained acclaim because Oprah Winfrey, taste maker extraordinaire, loves it. But it's stayed on the top of the rack because it's a quality product with the added benefit of being easily shipped to loved ones.

A cake arrived at our house, scrupulously packed in a chilled, crush-proof box. Inside, the confection was perfect, despite its travels. And it was so yummy -- dense, moist and indulgent -- that my husband Dale, the resident sweet tooth, asked for seconds, urging me to cut a generous slice this time, for goodness sake. Seven inches round, the cake serves six to 10 generously -- or five Dales.

The suggested retail price: $39.95. To order, call (866) 659-2253 or visit www.carouselcakes.com