Simple Decorations For Novelty Birthday Cakes
Tuesday, December 14th, 2010
Creating novelty birthday cakes is something anyone can do – particular if they use some of the simple decoration techniques outlined in this article. It doesn’t require fancy equipment, just some basic tools that most home bakers will have.
What is required more than anything is a little imagination and creative thinking to come up with something special for the guest of honour. Nothing is more endearing than taking the time and effort to prepare a special birthday cake.
So here is a list of some simple decorative techniques to try next time your creating novelty birthday cakes.
Doily or Doilies
Lace paper doilies provide a perfect decoration for birthday cakes. Simply place the doily on top of the cake and sift icing sugar evenly and thickly over the doily. Remove carefully and it’s a simple and elegantly decorated cake.
Cake stencils
These can be purchased or simply make your own from thick paper or thin cardboard. Carefully cut the stencil design, place it on the cake and sift icing sugar over the top. Remove carefully.
You could also try searching online for some stencil templates for your decoration.
Chocolate decorations
To make some simple chocolate decorations, trace the designs or shapes for the cake onto baking paper. Using unsweetened, melted chocolate, fill in the outline, using a small spatula or flat knife. Stay within the traced shape and keep the spread of chocolate even – just like colouring in. Let the chocolate decorations harden and then carefully lift them from the paper with a wide spatula. Take care doing this as chocolate can break easily. Place the decorations on top of the cake and the sides too for extra effect.
Candy and Lollies
There are so many types of lollies and candy to choose from and they truly are a cake decorators best friend. It is best to think about what design or effect you want to create with the cake and then buy the appropriate candy to achieve the this result. Don’t forget that candy can also be cut which can sometimes add a new dimension and shape.
Fill the sides of the cake with candy and lollies, even if they aren’t being used on the top. They add plenty of extra colour, fun and festivity to any birthday cake.
Frosted fruit, flowers and leaves
To frost fruit and flowers, simply whisk some egg white lightly and then using a paint brush, lightly coat the item all over. Drain off any excess then dip the item in caster sugar. Dry on a piece of greaseproof paper.
Great fruit for frosting are grapes and berries. Also ideal are violets, rose petals and other small flowers. Leaves from mint can also be a lovely addition to a decorated cake. Experiment with different items here.
So there are four simple ways to decorate novelty birthday cakes. Even if you are a novice you can make a great cake with these ideas and your work will be greatly admired.