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Step up your cake decorating game with these must-haves, according to a pro baker
Decorating a cake can be a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your baked creations. However, achieving professional-looking results can sometimes be challenging. Luckily, we’ve gathered expert advice from a professional baker to help you step up your cake decorating game. By investing in a few essential tools and following some helpful tips, you can create beautiful cakes that will impress your friends and family.
The Power of Color
According to Sarah Wais, assistant culinary specialist at Wilton, one of the easiest ways to instantly improve your cake is to play with color. She recommends using a small set of gel frosting colors because they are more concentrated and won’t affect the consistency of your frosting like liquid colors would. With a variety of colors at your disposal, you can create endless possibilities for vibrant and eye-catching designs.
The importance of decorating tips
A versatile set of decorating tips is a must for any aspiring cake decorator. These tips can be used for a variety of designs, including lettering, detail work, dots, cupcake swirls, shell borders and flowers. By experimenting with different tips and techniques, you can up your baking game and achieve professional-looking results.
Disposable piping bags for easy cleanup
When it comes to piping frosting, meringues or pastries, disposable piping bags are a game changer. Sarah Wais recommends using 12-inch bags for general piping and border work, and 16-inch bags for icing cakes or piping airy meringues. Best of all, you can throw them away after use, making cleanup a breeze. With disposable piping bags, you can focus on the creative process without the hassle of cleaning traditional piping bags.
Improve your technique with a turntable
If you’re serious about cake decorating, investing in a turntable can greatly improve your technique. A turntable is a handy tool that elevates your cake and makes it easier to decorate every inch with ease. By smoothly rotating the cake, you can achieve even and precise designs. Whether you’re piping intricate patterns or smoothing out frosting, a turntable provides the stability and control you need for professional-looking results.
Bottom line
With the right tools and a little practice, you can take your cake decorating skills to the next level. By following the advice of a professional baker, you now know what you need to up your game. Remember to experiment with colors, invest in a versatile set of decorating tips, use disposable piping bags for easy cleanup, and consider adding a turntable to your arsenal. With these essential tools and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning, professional-looking cakes that are sure to impress.
So don’t be afraid to unleash your creativity and have fun transforming your cakes into edible works of art!
FAQS
What are the essential cake decorating tools?
Essential cake decorating tools include a set of gel frosting colors, a versatile set of decorating tips, disposable piping bags, and a turntable for easy and precise cake decorating.
Why should I use gel frosting instead of liquid frosting?
Gel colors are more concentrated and won’t affect the consistency of your frosting like liquid colors. They allow you to achieve vibrant and intense colors without compromising the texture of your frosting.
How can decorating tips improve my cake decorating skills?
A set of decorating tips offers versatility in creating different designs such as lettering, detail work, dots, cupcake swirls, shell borders and flowers. By experimenting with different tips, you can improve your cake decorating skills and achieve professional-looking results.
Why should I consider using disposable piping bags?
Disposable piping bags are convenient for frosting, meringues, pastries and piping. They eliminate the need to clean traditional piping bags and offer easy cleanup. Just throw them away after use, saving you time and effort.
What are the benefits of using a rotary for cake decorating?
A turntable allows for smooth rotation of the cake, making it easier to decorate every inch with precision. It provides stability and control whether you’re piping intricate designs or smoothing out frosting, resulting in professional-looking cake decorations.
Can these must-have tools help beginners improve their cake decorating skills?
Absolutely! These essential tools are not only beneficial for experienced decorators, but also for beginners. They provide a solid foundation for learning and experimenting with different techniques, helping beginners improve their cake decorating skills and create stunning designs.