How to Frost a Cake

Frosting and icing are the most common and popularly used methods of cake decoration. Cake decorating is usually done for the attractive appearance that it offers. But, at the same time, one should also note that frosting is used to retain the moisture in the cake, to complement the flavor of the cake and add its own flavor. Here are different icing recipes, techniques and tips for frosting a cake.

Cake Frosting

• You need to cool the cake layers (or the single cake) for 5-10 minutes.
• Now invert the baking pan on a towel and take the cake out. Place the cooling racks below the cake layer and cool all the layers.
• Note that before frosting, you need to brush off all crumbs from the sides and tops of the cake.
• Place a layer of cake (the rounded side should be at the bottom) and spread a thick layer of frosting on top of it.
• Apply a thin layer of frosting on the side so that the crumbs get sealed.
• Place the upper layer. Repeat the process for more than 2 layers. At the topmost part, spread the remaining frosting and make it smooth for further decoration. This is the easiest and the best way to frost a cake.

... with Fondant

• Before working on frosting or icing, you need to let the cake get cooled completely.
• You should roll the fondant in thin or thick layer according to your preference. Also, the size of the cake should be taken into consideration.
• Now apply a very thin later of buttercream icing on the cake. This will help in keeping the fondant at its place.
• You should not lift the fondant with hands and place it on the cake. This will lead to its wrinkling.
• The fondant should be loosely wrapped around the rolling pin and slowly unwrapped on the top of the cake.
• Next, you should smooth the layer with the help of your hands and cut off the excess layer with a knife.

... with Buttercream

You need to follow the above mentioned procedure for buttercream frosting. Here is an easy and simple buttercream recipe that will be helpful to you.

Ingredients

• 3 cups of icing or confectioner's sugar
• 1/3 cups of softened butter
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla essence / extract
• 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk

Method of Preparation

1. Mix icing sugar and softened butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer.
2. When mixed properly, add milk and vanilla essence/ extract into it.
3. Beat the mixture to form a smooth and creamy frosting. You can add milk or sugar to make the mixture thin or thick respectively.

I hope these methods and techniques were helpful to you. So, now you can make your own desserts for your next party or celebration! Good luck!