When it comes to decorating a cake, the process can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. One of the most crucial steps in cake decoration is preparing the cake surface before applying the icing. This step is often overlooked, but it plays a significant role in ensuring that the icing adheres evenly and that the cake looks visually appealing. In this article, we will explore the various options for what to put on top of a cake before icing, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you achieve a professional-looking cake.
Understanding the Importance of Preparing the Cake Surface
Before we dive into the different options for preparing the cake surface, it’s essential to understand why this step is crucial. A smooth, even surface is necessary for several reasons:
- Even icing adhesion: A prepared surface ensures that the icing adheres evenly, preventing it from pooling or forming air pockets.
- Smooth finish: A smooth surface allows for a smooth, even finish, making the cake look more visually appealing.
- Better flavor: Some toppings can enhance the flavor of the cake, while others can help to balance out the sweetness.
Common Toppings for Cakes Before Icing
There are several common toppings that can be used on top of a cake before icing. These include:
1. Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is a popular choice for preparing the cake surface. It’s made by dissolving sugar in water and can be flavored with various extracts, such as vanilla or almond. Simple syrup helps to:
- Keep the cake moist: Simple syrup adds moisture to the cake, keeping it fresh for longer.
- Enhance flavor: Simple syrup can be flavored to enhance the overall taste of the cake.
- Create a smooth surface: Simple syrup helps to create a smooth surface for the icing to adhere to.
2. Fruit Preserves or Jams
Fruit preserves or jams can add a sweet and fruity flavor to the cake. They can be used to:
- Add flavor: Fruit preserves or jams can add a sweet and fruity flavor to the cake.
- Create a smooth surface: Fruit preserves or jams can help to create a smooth surface for the icing to adhere to.
- Add moisture: Fruit preserves or jams can add moisture to the cake, keeping it fresh for longer.
3. Ganache
Ganache is a rich and creamy topping made from chocolate and heavy cream. It can be used to:
- Add flavor: Ganache can add a rich and creamy flavor to the cake.
- Create a smooth surface: Ganache can help to create a smooth surface for the icing to adhere to.
- Add moisture: Ganache can add moisture to the cake, keeping it fresh for longer.
4. Nutella or Peanut Butter
Nutella or peanut butter can add a rich and nutty flavor to the cake. They can be used to:
- Add flavor: Nutella or peanut butter can add a rich and nutty flavor to the cake.
- Create a smooth surface: Nutella or peanut butter can help to create a smooth surface for the icing to adhere to.
- Add moisture: Nutella or peanut butter can add moisture to the cake, keeping it fresh for longer.
Other Options for Preparing the Cake Surface
In addition to the common toppings mentioned above, there are several other options for preparing the cake surface. These include:
1. Dusting with Powdered Sugar
Dusting the cake with powdered sugar can help to:
- Create a smooth surface: Powdered sugar can help to create a smooth surface for the icing to adhere to.
- Add flavor: Powdered sugar can add a sweet flavor to the cake.
- Enhance appearance: Powdered sugar can add a decorative touch to the cake.
2. Using a Crumb Coat
A crumb coat is a thin layer of icing that is applied to the cake to help trap any crumbs or debris. It can be used to:
- Trap crumbs: A crumb coat can help to trap any crumbs or debris, creating a smooth surface for the final layer of icing.
- Create a smooth surface: A crumb coat can help to create a smooth surface for the final layer of icing.
- Add flavor: A crumb coat can add flavor to the cake.
Conclusion
Preparing the cake surface before icing is a crucial step in achieving a professional-looking cake. By understanding the importance of preparing the cake surface and exploring the various options for toppings, you can create a smooth, even surface that is perfect for icing. Whether you choose to use simple syrup, fruit preserves, ganache, or another topping, the key is to create a surface that is smooth, even, and flavorful.
What is the purpose of adding a layer on top of the cake before icing?
The primary purpose of adding a layer on top of the cake before icing is to create a smooth, even surface for the icing to adhere to. This layer, often referred to as a crumb coat or a barrier layer, helps to prevent crumbs and other debris from getting stuck in the icing, resulting in a cleaner and more polished finish. Additionally, this layer can also help to lock in moisture and flavors, ensuring that the cake remains fresh and delicious.
By adding a layer on top of the cake before icing, you can also achieve a more professional-looking finish. A smooth, even surface allows the icing to be applied evenly and smoothly, creating a beautiful and visually appealing cake. This is especially important for special occasions, such as weddings or birthdays, where the cake is often the centerpiece of the celebration.
What are some common options for what to put on top of a cake before icing?
There are several common options for what to put on top of a cake before icing, including jam or preserves, ganache, and buttercream. Jam or preserves can add a sweet and fruity flavor to the cake, while also providing a smooth surface for the icing to adhere to. Ganache, a rich and creamy mixture of chocolate and heavy cream, can add a decadent and indulgent flavor to the cake. Buttercream, a sweet and creamy mixture of butter and sugar, can provide a smooth and even surface for the icing to adhere to.
Other options for what to put on top of a cake before icing include custard, pastry cream, and fruit curds. These options can add a rich and creamy texture to the cake, as well as a variety of flavors and flavors combinations. Ultimately, the choice of what to put on top of the cake before icing will depend on the type of cake, the desired flavor and texture, and personal preference.
How do I choose the right option for my cake?
Choosing the right option for what to put on top of your cake before icing will depend on several factors, including the type of cake, the desired flavor and texture, and personal preference. For example, if you are making a chocolate cake, you may want to choose a chocolate-based option, such as ganache or chocolate buttercream. If you are making a fruit-based cake, you may want to choose a fruit-based option, such as jam or preserves.
It’s also important to consider the texture and consistency of the option you choose. For example, if you are looking for a smooth and even surface, you may want to choose a buttercream or ganache. If you are looking for a more rustic and textured surface, you may want to choose a jam or preserves. Ultimately, the right option will depend on the specific needs and goals of your cake.
How do I apply the layer on top of the cake before icing?
Applying the layer on top of the cake before icing is a relatively simple process. First, make sure the cake is completely cooled and crumb-free. Then, spread a thin and even layer of the chosen option on top of the cake, using a spatula or offset spatula. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the cake, but avoid applying too much pressure, which can cause the cake to become dense or soggy.
Once the layer is applied, use a spatula or offset spatula to smooth out the surface and remove any excess. You can also use a turntable to spin the cake and ensure that the layer is evenly applied. Finally, refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the layer to set before applying the icing.
Can I use a store-bought option for what to put on top of the cake before icing?
Yes, you can use a store-bought option for what to put on top of the cake before icing. Many grocery stores and baking supply stores sell pre-made options, such as jam or preserves, ganache, and buttercream. These options can be a convenient and time-saving alternative to making your own from scratch.
However, keep in mind that store-bought options may not offer the same level of customization and control as making your own from scratch. Additionally, some store-bought options may contain preservatives or additives that can affect the flavor and texture of the cake. If you do choose to use a store-bought option, make sure to read the ingredient label and follow the instructions for application.
Can I skip the layer on top of the cake before icing?
While it is technically possible to skip the layer on top of the cake before icing, it is not recommended. The layer serves several important purposes, including creating a smooth and even surface for the icing to adhere to, locking in moisture and flavors, and preventing crumbs and debris from getting stuck in the icing.
Skipping the layer can result in a cake that is uneven, messy, and unprofessional-looking. Additionally, the icing may not adhere properly to the cake, resulting in a cake that is prone to cracking or breaking. If you are short on time or prefer a more rustic look, you may be able to get away with skipping the layer, but it is generally recommended to include it for the best results.
How long does the layer on top of the cake before icing need to set?
The length of time the layer on top of the cake before icing needs to set will depend on the specific option you choose and the temperature and humidity of your environment. Generally, it is recommended to refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the layer to set before applying the icing.
However, some options, such as ganache or buttercream, may require longer setting times, up to several hours or even overnight. It’s also important to note that the layer should be set, but not frozen or rock-hard. If the layer is too hard, it can be difficult to apply the icing smoothly and evenly. If you are unsure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and allow the layer to set for a longer period of time.