A fairy cake in England is a small, individual cake that is similar to a cupcake.
A fairy cake is also more delicate and lightly decorated.
Fairy cakes are also traditionally smaller in size than the American style cupcakes and often also feature a lighter sponge cake and simpler icing such as glace icing, instead of the heavier buttercream that is often found on cupcakes.
Fairy cakes in England are a popular treat, especially at children's parties or afternoon tea and are also sometimes decorated with sprinkles or even a glace cherry.
Fairy cakes are also often baked in smaller paper cases than cupcakes and they are often made with a lighter sponge cake that differs from the denser butter cakes that are sometimes used for cupcakes.
Also fairy cakes are known for their lighter, often glace icing, instead of the heavier buttercream frosting that is often used on many cupcakes.