To ice the top of a cake, start with a generous dollop of softened buttercream and smooth it evenly with a spatula.
Step-by-Step Guide to Icing a Cake Top
Here's how to perfectly ice the top of your cake, based on expert techniques:
- Prepare the Buttercream: Ensure your buttercream is softened but not runny or melted. This makes it easier to spread smoothly.
- Apply the Buttercream:
- Spoon a large dollop of the prepared buttercream onto the center of the cake top.
- The goal is to have enough to cover the entire top surface.
- Smooth the Top:
- Use a spatula or palette knife to spread the buttercream across the top of the cake.
- Gently push the buttercream outwards, working towards the edges of the cake.
- Keep the spatula or palette knife nearly flat against the buttercream to achieve a smooth surface.
- Complete the Sides:
- Once the top is smooth, use the same spatula or palette knife to apply smaller amounts of buttercream to the sides of the cake in sections. Turn the cake as you go, ensuring you cover the entire circumference.
- This step completes the basic icing of your cake by bringing the icing from the top over the sides.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Finish:
- Use an Offset Spatula: An offset spatula provides better control and allows you to spread the buttercream more easily.
- Don’t Rush: Take your time to ensure an even layer of buttercream without any bumps or holes.
- Clean the Spatula: Clean the spatula or palette knife frequently to remove excess buttercream. This prevents it from clumping and interfering with your smooth finish.
- Consider a Turntable: A cake turntable can make icing a cake easier and more efficient, as it allows you to rotate the cake while you work.
By following these steps, you will achieve a beautifully iced cake top that's ready for decoration!
