How to decorate a homemade cake like a professional baker

Introduction

Baking a cake is one thing, but decorating it like a professional is another. You might have the perfect cake recipe, but it's the decoration that makes it look impressive. Decorating a cake can be intimidating, especially if you don't have any experience. But don't worry, this Girl vs Baking blog post will guide you through the process of decorating a homemade cake like a professional baker.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start decorating your cake, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You'll need a cake turntable, offset spatula, piping bags, piping tips, and a bench scraper. You can find these supplies at any baking supply store or online.

Prepare Your Cake

Before you start decorating your cake, you need to prepare it. Level your cake by using a serrated knife to cut off the top of the cake. This will make sure that your cake is even and will provide a flat surface for decorating. Brush off any loose crumbs from the cake before you start decorating.

Apply a Crumb Coat

A crumb coat is a thin layer of frosting that is applied to the cake to seal in the crumbs. Apply a thin layer of frosting all over the cake using an offset spatula. This will help the final layer of frosting to stick to the cake and prevent any crumbs from showing through the final layer of frosting.

Apply the Final Layer of Frosting

Once the crumb coat has set, it's time to apply the final layer of frosting. Use an offset spatula to apply a thick layer of frosting all over the cake. Smooth out the frosting using a bench scraper. Make sure the frosting is even and smooth all around the cake.

Add Decorations

Now comes the fun part, adding the decorations. You can use piping bags and tips to create different designs on the cake. If you're not confident in your piping skills, you can use edible decorations such as fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or edible flowers. Be creative and have fun with it!

Use Different Colors

Using different colors can make your cake look more appealing. You can use food coloring to dye your frosting or use different colored fruits to add color to your cake. Make sure to use colors that complement each other and don't clash.

Don't Overdo It

While it's great to be creative, it's important not to overdo it. Don't add too many decorations or colors that will overwhelm the cake. Keep it simple and elegant.

Practice Makes Perfect

Decorating a cake takes practice. Don't get discouraged if your first attempt doesn't look like a professional's. Keep practicing and trying out different techniques. Watch tutorials online or take a class to learn more about decorating cakes.

Conclusion

Decorating a cake like a professional baker takes time and practice. With the right supplies and techniques, you can create a beautiful cake that will impress your friends and family. Don't be afraid to experiment with different designs and colors, but remember to keep it simple and elegant. Happy decorating from the Girl vs Baking fam!