Whoopi Goldberg has claimed a bakery refused to make her birthday treats because of her political views

The Charlotte Russe - a trifle-type creation featuring layers of sponge, cream, fruit, and a cherry on top - was one of Whoopi's mom's favourites when she was growing up, but the star explained she had had difficulties securing the sweet treats.

She said: "Now, I should tell you, Charlotte Russe has no political leanings, and the place that made these refused to make them for me.

"They said that their ovens had gone down, all kinds of stuff, but folks went and got them anyway, which is why I'm not telling you who made them.

"It can't be because I'm a woman, but perhaps they did not like my politics.

"But that's okay, because you know what? Listen, this is my mother's celebration. Pick these up and celebrate with me and my mom. Thank you everyone for celebrating my birthday today."

The bakery in question was later identified as Holtermann's Bakery on Staten Island, who insisted they hadn't turned down the order "because of political" views, but due to technical issues at the facility.

Owner Jill Holterman told entertainment Weekly: "They'd asked us and we were having trouble with our boilers."

She explained the 'Color Purple' actress initially asked for treats for a 6 November appearance on a talk show and for 'The View' this week but she declined the orders because she "didn't want to make a commitment that I can't carry through" due to her kitchen issues.

She added: "I said to Whoopi, 'I can't do it right now.

"We have so many things going on with my boiler,' because the building is from 1930, so, when she called me, I had no idea [if we could] be baking everything."

Jill confirmed an unidentified woman had picked up around 50 Charlotte Russe desserts early on Wednesday morning, which she had been able to make, and stated she wasn't aware of any connections the person may have had, with regard to 'The View' or otherwise.