askvity

How to put icing on a cake?

Published in Cake Frosting 3 mins read

To put icing on a cake, start by placing the cake on a stable surface, ideally in the center for easier access, and then apply a generous scoop of frosting.

Steps for Frosting a Cake

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to frost a cake, incorporating tips from the provided reference:

  1. Prepare your cake and workspace:

    • Ensure your cake is completely cooled before frosting.
    • If the cake is uneven, carefully trim the top with a serrated knife to create a flat surface.
    • Place the cake on a cake stand or a flat plate that allows for easy rotation. According to the video, positioning it in the very center will make frosting much easier.

  2. Apply the First Layer (Crumb Coat):

    • Place a generous scoop of frosting on the center of the cake.
    • Use an offset spatula to spread the frosting over the top of the cake.
    • Spread the frosting to the edge and push it slightly over the cake's sides, ensuring complete coverage of the cake to trap crumbs.
    • This thin layer of frosting, known as a crumb coat, seals in the cake crumbs.
    • Refrigerate the cake with the crumb coat for 15-30 minutes to allow it to firm up, making the final frosting layer easier to apply.

  3. Apply the Second Layer (Final Frosting):

    • Once the crumb coat is firm, apply another generous scoop of frosting to the top of the cake.
    • Use your offset spatula to smoothly spread the frosting over the cake's surface.
    • Work your way around the cake, smoothing out the frosting and ensuring even coverage on the top and sides.
    • You can use a cake scraper to get a perfectly smooth finish or create desired textures, depending on your preference.

  4. Add Decorative Touches:

    • Use a piping bag with tips to add decorative elements.
    • Add sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fruits.

  5. Clean Up:

    • Clean the cake stand or plate with a damp cloth to remove any stray frosting.

Additional Tips

  • Always use a generous amount of frosting for better coverage and ease of application.
  • Use an offset spatula to achieve a smoother finish.
  • If your frosting is too thick, microwave it in short bursts or add a tablespoon of liquid such as water or milk.
  • Practice makes perfect! The more you practice, the better you will become at frosting cakes.

By following these steps, you can achieve a beautifully frosted cake.

Related Articles