Lebanese pastry chef Zeina Itani has spent eighteen years in Saudi Arabia quietly shaping a signature style rooted in precision, imagination, and a deep respect for craft. Her work recently caught the attention of the Cartoon Network team, who enlisted her to create a Gumball themed cake for the new season of The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball. The commission followed earlier collaborations with Warner Bros MENA, including a customised cake for the Superman film premiere, and it pushed her further into the spotlight as the founder of Zeina’s Cakery.
Her introduction to the project unfolded naturally through her growing presence online. “Following numerous successful collaborations with Warner Bros MENA, including the creation of a specially customised cake for the premiere of the new Superman film, our team’s expertise in cake artistry and our strong presence on social media began to attract wider attention. It was because of this growing recognition that we were approached by the Cartoon Network team.”
Although she was not deeply familiar with the show herself, the collaboration quickly became personal. “My children, particularly my elder daughter, knew the show well as they regularly watched its episodes. When she learnt that I would be working on a project for Gumball, her excitement was intense.”
Artistry and Engineering
The cake itself demanded both artistry and engineering. “Crafting and sculpting life sized characters from cake presents a considerable challenge. It is essential to ensure that every tiny detail of the character is represented with complete accuracy, so that the likeness is unmistakable.”
She worked with a team of four decorators for eight consecutive days to bring the concept to life. “It took us 8 consecutive days of concentrated effort from all of us. The process involved long hours, steady hands, and a collective commitment to maintaining precision at every stage.”
Much of her evolution as an artist has come through ambitious regional commissions. “The most recent Saudi National Day project represented a significant step up in terms of complexity and ambition for our cake artistry.” The work required her to study the Arabian horse in detail. “Our challenge was to fully immerse ourselves in the intricate features of the horse, ensuring that every aspect down to the smallest element was captured.”
Flavour and Inspiration
Her commitment to flavour mirrors her approach to visual craft. “To achieve this harmony, we developed a unique recipe for the cake itself, carefully selecting premium ingredients for both the sponge and the filling.” Belgian chocolate has become her preferred covering for both taste and texture. “This selection was made not only for its ability to enhance the cake’s flavour, but also to match the elegance and beauty of the final decorated design.”
When ideas stall, she steps away rather than pushes through. “Stepping away from the project for a short period can be incredibly helpful to clear my mind and reset my perspective.” She draws on art, books, design, and the memory of challenging projects that proved transformative. “Reflecting on past projects that challenged me reminds me of the rewarding outcomes that patience and perseverance can bring.”
Saudi Arabia’s creative and culinary energy continues to inform her work. “Saudi Arabia’s evolving food and art scene has had a profound impact on my approach as a cake artist.” Projects tied to national celebrations have deepened her connection to local heritage. “Exposure to the diverse flavours and premium ingredients celebrated in Saudi cuisine has inspired me to experiment with new recipes.”
Global and Local Muse
Travel remains a steady source of inspiration. She would choose Japan for a culinary journey. “The country’s culinary landscape is renowned for its artistry, precision, and deep respect for both tradition and innovation.” For Zeina, one of her most memorable desserts was found far from home. “One of the most unforgettable desserts I have enjoyed while travelling was a tiramisu from a small sweet shop nestled by Lake Como in Italy.”
She never travels without three essentials. “My e-tablet, my facial products, and my mini bake tools kit.” The tools allow her to sketch, test, and refine ideas anywhere. “Having my tools on hand ensures I am always ready to explore my passion for baking.”
Her imagination often returns to destinations when dreaming up showpiece cakes. “I would choose a grand castle fit for a princess as my muse.” Pastel tones, sugar flowers, and layered flavours of strawberry, rosewater, white chocolate, and pistachio reflect her preference for elegance and whimsy.
Within Saudi Arabia, one place stands out to her for its culinary potential. “AlUla stands out as a Saudi destination that truly deserves more recognition for its food and dessert culture.” She cites its blend of local ingredients, inventive restaurants, and a hospitality tradition that mirrors its landscapes.
Her answer to the final question is simple and candid. “For anyone passionate about pastries, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Zeina’s Cakery.” It is where her craftsmanship, curiosity, and long apprenticeship in the Kingdom come together.
Zeina's Cakery, Amna Bint Wahb Street, Jeddah 23622
@zeinascakery
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