Using premade decorations is an easy way to decorate your round cake.
Cakes are traditional for birthdays, weddings and other celebratory occasions. Round cakes are one of the most common shapes, primarily because they are simple to bake. Decorations for cakes range from plain to elaborate. A beginning decorator has many easy options available to make her cake look festive and elegant. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Frosting
The first step in decorating a round cake is to frost the cake. The most popular type of frosting is buttercream. To make buttercream, beat together 6 tablespoons butter, 2 cups confectioners' sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of milk in a bowl until all ingredients are incorporated. Add an additional 2 teaspoons to 2 tablespoons of milk until frosting is light and fluffy. After cake is completely cool, dollop about 1-1/2 cups of frosting in the center of the cake and pull the frosting to the sides with a spatula until you have a smooth layer on top. Use the remaining buttercream to frost the sides of the cake.
Royal Icing
You can find the most popular recipe for royal icing on the Wilton website. Royal icing has many uses and can be tinted with food coloring. To ice a cake with royal icing, use a palate knife or straight-edge spatula to apply the icing to the top of the cake. Pull the knife or spatula across the top to smooth the icing. Smooth any excess icing that hangs over the edge and allow the icing to dry. Ice the sides in the same manner. Apply a second layer, allow it to dry, and ice the cake for a third time. The finished cake should have a smooth crisp surface. Royal icing hardens like cement, which makes it an excellent background for setting in decorations. Using a piping bag, you can write messages or pipe ribbon decorations on your cake in a contrasting icing color.
Fondant
Fondant gives your cake an elegant, smooth, finished look. Buy a block of fondant from your grocery, craft, or baking supply store. Wilton is the most popular brand and comes in a variety of colors. With a rolling pin, roll the fondant in a circle large enough to cover your cake and drape down the sides. Frost the cake with a thin layer of buttercream icing, and place the fondant on the cake, smoothing the sides. If desired, mix any remaining fondant with food coloring and roll thin. Cut out shapes or letters with a knife or cookie cutter. Attach to cake with a drop of water or royal icing. A common addition to fondant-covered cakes is a satin ribbon wrapped around the base of the cake and secured with a dab of royal icing.
Store-Bought Decorations
Using pre-made decorations is easier than making your own from scratch. Purchase pre-made decorations, such as sugar letters and shapes, from your local grocery or craft store. Spell out the name of the person or event you are celebrating. Use candy such as gummy bears, chocolate chips, or peppermint sticks to add flair to your creation.
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