Easy Cake Decorating Ideas
May 27th, 2008 by Joe Vincente
You might find it interesting to know that the first cakes baked in the US were actually just small loaves of sweet bread. Just imagine how far we have come. This would be good news for the home bakers, with the huge collection of recipes to choose from. Virtually anyone can bake wonderful cakes. The right thing to do if you are keen is to invest in a good set of cake making tools.
Great icing starts with a smooth surface. Make sure they are cool before you start icing them though! You can prevent crumbs from damaging your dicing layer by starting with a thin base of frosting. Place them on the refrigerator for 20 minutes. This will set the first layer and lock in all crumbs from ever rising to the external layer of your icing. When all crumbs are locked into the first layer, the job will be much easier for you now.
You can apply the next layer using an icing spatula to make the job so much easier. Start at the sides by smoothing the icing nicely using the icing spatula. Dip the spatial in cold water before you use them, it makes the job easier. To smooth the top, dip the spatula in cold water and holding it horizontally over the top of the cake. Start at the farthest point and drag the spatula towards you.
Simple Designs
Some cake decorators claim that smoothing icing is the hardest part. Always practice to perfect the skills you have. Rejoice if you can do it right, it is the hardest part.
One good alternative to icing tops are sugar coated powders that are dusted across the surface of the cake. Use a stencil for a more elaborate experience or you can use powdered sugar for a dusted look. One good addition is to see edible cake decorations. The use of sprinkles, candy, nuts, and coconut pressed into the icing before it sets, will make your cake stand out.
Use cardboard combs to create a textured feel, if you want. You can make a piping by using a pastry bag and a metal tip held together with a coupler. This is real fun and you can get to tap into your talent and rate some new designs-flowers, leaves, at the top or sides of your cake. Do not fill the bag more than one cup of icing and start making those tiny designs by applying steady pressure. To guide the tip use your other hand. There are plenty of techniques you can use when piping.
If you wish, fondant is another great way to decorate your cake. Fondants are used to cover cakes, kneaded and rolled to create a beautiful classic look. Used to created 3-D design, they are exceptionally elegant.
