10 beginner cake decorating hacks

Here are ten hacks that can help you with cake decorating:

1. Leveling the cake: Use dental floss or a long serrated knife to level the top of your cake layers. This will ensure a flat surface for frosting and stacking.

2. Crumb coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting called a crumb coat to the cake before applying the final layer. This will help trap any loose crumbs and create a smoother finish.

3. Piping gel for transferring designs: If you want to transfer a design onto your cake, you can use piping gel. Trace the design onto parchment paper with piping gel, then flip it onto the cake and gently press. The gel will transfer the design onto the cake surface.

4. Use a turntable: A turntable makes cake decorating much easier. It allows you to rotate the cake while frosting, ensuring even coverage and smooth edges.

5. Chill the cake: After applying the crumb coat, chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This will firm up the frosting and make it easier to apply the final layer.

6. Viva paper towel smoothing: For a super smooth finish on buttercream cakes, gently press a piece of Viva brand paper towel against the frosted cake and smooth it out. The texture of Viva paper towel helps achieve a clean look.

7. Use an offset spatula: An offset spatula is a valuable tool for spreading and smoothing frosting. Its angled blade helps you achieve clean edges and even application.

8. Add texture with a comb: Use a cake comb or a regular comb to create textured patterns on the sides of your frosted cake. Drag the comb gently along the frosting to achieve various designs.

9. Pipe decorative borders: Use a piping bag and tips to pipe decorative borders on your cake. This can add an elegant finishing touch and hide any imperfections at the base of the cake.

10. Decorate with edible flowers: Adding edible flowers to your cake can elevate its appearance. Make sure to use pesticide-free flowers that are safe for consumption and arrange them strategically on the cake for a beautiful, natural touch.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep experimenting and refining your techniques to become a pro at cake decorating!