About a cake decorating idea, did you know that the first cakes baked in America where small loaves of sweet bread? Today, we are blessed with a huge repertoire of cake recipes that are just as sumptuous as they are beautiful. This should make any homemaker delighted, as they are now able to choose from a wide variety of cakes to bake. To bake a great cake, you just need a little knowledge and some practice. Start your cake making adventure by investing in a good set of cake decorating tools.

It all starts with a smooth icing, which you can apply as soon as your cakes are cool. Crumbs can damage the icing and makes your cake decorating look unprofessional, so start with a thin layer of frost just to cover and lock them before you start application of the regular layer. Once this coat is on, set the cake in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. This will set all crumbs, locked in nicely and ready for the next step. Now you can have fun decorating you cake without having to worry about those dreaded crumbs suddenly appearing.

You can apply the next layer using an icing spatula to make the job much easier. Start at the sides by smoothing the icing nicely using the icing spatula. One trick for smoothing the frosting is to dip the metal icing spatula in cold water, this will aid in smoothing the frosting. To smooth the top, dip the spatula in cold water and holding it horizontally over the top of the cake. Start at the farthest point and drag the spatula towards you.

Keep it Simple for the Best Effect

Some cake decorating experts claim that the hardest part in cake decoration would be learning to smooth the icing. Spend time practicing this before you do the real thing. If you can do it right then let your friends know; even though it is the hardest part.

If icing is not your cup of tea, use dusted sugar powder. Use a stencil for a more elaborate experience or you can use powdered sugar for a dusted look. Try using one of those edible cake decorating additions for a change. To make your cake stand out, use candy, nuts or even coconut slices to decorate your cake; set them in with the icing before they set and you are ready to go.

The use of cardboard combs can make your icing looks textured. Piping is achieved by using a pastry bag fitted with a metal tip that is held on by a coupler. Perhaps this is the most crucial pat of your cake decorating. Start decorating your cake by using a steady pressure and do not fill the piping bag with more than one cup of icing. To guide the tip use your other hand. Be adventurous and learn the new piping methods.

If you wish, fondant is another great way to decorate your cake. They are kneaded and roiled to be placed over the cake for that expensive, classy look. They are often used to create elegant 3-D designs.