10 tips on how to decorate a cake

Choose the right frosting: Use a frosting that complements the flavor of your cake. Buttercream and cream cheese frostings are versatile options. Consider using fondant for a smooth and professional finish.

Plan your design: Visualize your cake design before starting. Sketch it out or use reference images to have a clear idea of how you want the final product to look.

Level and crumb coat the cake: Level the top of your cake layers and apply a thin layer of frosting, known as a crumb coat. This helps seal in the crumbs and creates a smooth base for the final layer of frosting.

Use a turntable: Place your cake on a turntable to make it easier to frost and decorate evenly. This allows for smooth rotations and better control over the piping or spreading of frosting.

Apply a thick layer of frosting: Apply a generous amount of frosting to ensure an even and smooth finish. Use an offset spatula to spread it around the sides and top of the cake.

Experiment with piping: Use different piping tips and techniques to create decorative borders, rosettes, or patterns on your cake. Practice piping on a separate surface before attempting it on the actual cake.

Add edible decorations: Enhance your cake’s appearance with colorful and edible decorations such as sprinkles, edible glitter, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit. These can add texture and visual appeal.

Get creative with fondant: If using fondant, roll it out evenly and drape it over the cake for a sleek finish. Experiment with different colors and cut out shapes to create unique designs.

Take your time: Decorating a cake requires patience. Take breaks if needed to ensure steady hands and attention to detail. Rushing the process may lead to mistakes or uneven designs.

Practice and have fun: Decorating cakes is an art that takes practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts don’t turn out perfectly. Enjoy the process of learning and experimenting with new techniques and designs.

Originally published @Medium