Electronic Highways
The art of cake decorating
The centerpiece of many special occasions, such as birthdays, weddings and holidays, is a well-decorated cake. According to An A-Z of Food & Drink, the frosting of cakes has been a fairly common practice since the 18th century (p. 52). Today, we see more than a simple icing of a cake, but rather elaborate designs that turn a simple cake into an eye-catching centerpiece for many special occasions.
Although the most elaborate of cakes may have been created by individuals with art backgrounds or those practicing for many years, the art of cake decorating can be a hobby or passion for individuals of all ages and levels. While culinary arts schools offer courses, many cake decorators have learned the trade by watching videos and/or reading books. For those eager to get started with cake decorating, the Web also is full of wonderful resources.
Cake Central is a one-stop shop for all your decorating needs. "The World's Largest Social Networking Site for Cake Decorators" has it all. You’ll find everything from cake, frosting and filling recipes to articles, tutorials and instructions for character pans. There is even a large, active forum to chat with other decorators and newbies.
Of course, who hasn't heard of Wilton? Wilton Cakes provides a comprehensive site full of project ideas, instructions for decorating techniques, cake pans, tutorials, recipes and active discussion boards. You'll also find products for purchase, such as character pans, cake decorations, bags, tips and more. It's a cake decorator’s go-to place for it all. If you are looking to take cake decorating classes, the site also can direct you to Wilton classes being offered in your area. (Many times these classes are offered at local craft stores, such as Michaels and Jo-Ann Fabrics.)
Baking 911.com is a great place, not just for cake advice, but for all your baking needs. This hidden treasure is full of recipes, tips, techniques and step-by-step instructions to help you get started. You’ll even find information about the science behind baking, such as why certain recipes do not work. Looking for specific advice for cakes? Check out the “Decorating 101” section and you surely will not be disappointed.
Decorating a cake for a child? Cakes and Kids offers tons of tips on baking, frosting and using fondant. The site also includes recipes, party themes, cake photos, additional resources and even a list of supplies that you’ll need to get started.
If the above sites don't offer enough decorating ideas, try perusing online photo galleries, such as the Flickr Cake Fun group or cake decorating groups on Facebook. These sites will not only lead you to thousands of unique ideas, but also give you a chance to network with other cake decorators and enthusiasts. Explore, share and indulge in techniques, advice and creative ideas.
For those interested in a more simplistic means of decorating, try an alternative, such as using a glaze or confectioner's sugar. Betty Crocker Cake Decorating Templates are great for stenciling designs on a cake. Grab a stencil, lightly dust confectioner's sugar and voila—you have a light, tasty and visually satisfying treat!
So, what are you waiting for? Give the art of cake decorating a try - with a little bit of patience and practice, it's sure to be a cake walk!
—Bridget Schumacher, Arts & Sciences Libraries
Reader Comments