When it comes to decorating a cake, one of the most exciting parts is adding the sweets on top. Whether you’re a professional baker or a DIY enthusiast, learning how to put sweets on top of a cake can elevate your creations and make them truly special. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to put sweets on top of a cake, covering the different types of sweets you can use, the tools you’ll need, and some expert tips to help you achieve a professional finish.
Choosing the Right Sweets for Your Cake
Before you start decorating, it’s essential to choose the right sweets for your cake. The type of sweets you use will depend on the theme, occasion, and personal preference. Here are some popular sweets you can use to decorate your cake:
Candies and Chocolate
Candies and chocolate are classic choices for cake decorating. You can use:
- M&M’s or Skittles for a colorful and playful look
- Chocolate chips or shavings for a sophisticated and elegant look
- Gummy bears or other small candies for a fun and whimsical look
Fondant and Sugar Decorations
Fondant and sugar decorations are perfect for creating intricate designs and patterns. You can use:
- Fondant shapes, such as hearts, stars, or flowers
- Sugar decorations, such as beads, borders, or motifs
- Fondant or gum paste to create custom designs and shapes
Fresh Fruits and Nuts
Fresh fruits and nuts can add a natural and elegant touch to your cake. You can use:
- Fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
- Sliced fruits, such as citrus or apples
- Chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts
Tools and Equipment Needed
To put sweets on top of a cake, you’ll need some basic tools and equipment. Here are some essentials to get you started:
Cake Turntable
A cake turntable is a must-have for any cake decorator. It allows you to easily rotate the cake and access all sides.
Piping Bags and Tips
Piping bags and tips are necessary for creating intricate designs and patterns with fondant or buttercream.
Offset Spatula
An offset spatula is perfect for smoothing out fondant or buttercream and creating a clean edge.
Tweezers
Tweezers are handy for placing small sweets, such as candies or beads, onto the cake.
Pastry Brush
A pastry brush is necessary for applying a thin layer of water or corn syrup to the cake, which helps the sweets stick.
Step-by-Step Guide to Putting Sweets on Top of a Cake
Now that you have your sweets and tools ready, it’s time to start decorating. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put sweets on top of a cake:
Step 1: Prepare Your Cake
Before you start decorating, make sure your cake is completely cooled and crumb-free. If necessary, apply a thin layer of buttercream or fondant to the top and sides of the cake.
Step 2: Apply a Thin Layer of Water or Corn Syrup
Using a pastry brush, apply a thin layer of water or corn syrup to the top of the cake. This will help the sweets stick to the cake.
Step 3: Place Large Sweets First
Start by placing large sweets, such as candies or chocolate chips, onto the cake. Use tweezers to place them gently onto the cake.
Step 4: Add Smaller Sweets
Once you’ve placed the large sweets, it’s time to add smaller sweets, such as beads or sprinkles. Use a piping bag or a small spoon to sprinkle them onto the cake.
Step 5: Create a Pattern or Design
Use your sweets to create a pattern or design on top of the cake. You can use a piping bag and tip to create intricate designs or patterns.
Step 6: Finish with a Border
Finally, finish your cake with a border. You can use a piping bag and tip to create a border around the edge of the cake.
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips and tricks to help you achieve a professional finish:
Use a Variety of Sweets
Using a variety of sweets can add depth and interest to your cake. Experiment with different textures, colors, and shapes to create a unique look.
Experiment with Different Placements
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different placements of your sweets. Try placing them in a pattern or design, or scattering them randomly across the top of the cake.
Use a Turntable
A turntable is essential for cake decorating. It allows you to easily rotate the cake and access all sides, making it easier to place sweets and create a symmetrical design.
Practice Makes Perfect
As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts at decorating a cake don’t turn out as expected. Keep practicing, and you’ll soon become a pro at putting sweets on top of a cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when putting sweets on top of a cake:
Overcrowding the Cake
Don’t overcrowd the cake with too many sweets. This can make the cake look cluttered and messy.
Not Using a Turntable
Not using a turntable can make it difficult to access all sides of the cake, resulting in a lopsided or uneven design.
Not Applying a Thin Layer of Water or Corn Syrup
Not applying a thin layer of water or corn syrup can cause the sweets to fall off the cake.
Conclusion
Putting sweets on top of a cake is a fun and creative process that can elevate your baking skills and make your cakes truly special. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create beautiful and delicious cakes that are perfect for any occasion. Remember to practice makes perfect, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different sweets and designs. Happy baking!
What are the essential tools needed to put sweets on top of a cake?
To put sweets on top of a cake, you will need a few essential tools. First, you will need a cake that is completely cooled and frosted. You will also need a variety of sweets to choose from, such as candies, chocolates, or sprinkles. Additionally, you will need a small amount of frosting or piping gel to act as “glue” to hold the sweets in place. A turntable or cake stand can also be helpful in displaying and decorating your cake.
Other tools that can be useful when putting sweets on top of a cake include a small offset spatula or knife for applying frosting or piping gel, a pair of tweezers for placing small sweets, and a small bowl or container for holding the sweets. Having all of these tools on hand will make the process of decorating your cake much easier and more efficient.
How do I prepare my cake for decorating with sweets?
Before you can start decorating your cake with sweets, you need to make sure it is properly prepared. This means that the cake should be completely cooled and frosted. If you are using a store-bought cake, make sure to follow the instructions for thawing and frosting. If you are making your own cake, allow it to cool completely in the pan before frosting it. Once the cake is frosted, use a turntable or cake stand to display it and make it easier to decorate.
It’s also a good idea to do a quick crumb coat on your cake before decorating it with sweets. This involves applying a thin layer of frosting to the cake and then refrigerating it for about 10-15 minutes to set the frosting. This will help prevent crumbs from getting stuck in the frosting and make it easier to decorate the cake with sweets.
What types of sweets can I use to decorate a cake?
There are many different types of sweets that you can use to decorate a cake, depending on the theme and style of the cake. Some popular options include candies, such as M&M’s or chopped peanut butter cups, chocolates, such as chocolate chips or shaved chocolate, and sprinkles, such as nonpareils or jimmies. You can also use other types of sweets, such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even candy canes or holly sprigs for a holiday-themed cake.
When choosing sweets to decorate your cake, consider the flavor and texture of the cake, as well as the theme and style of the cake. For example, if you are making a chocolate cake, you may want to use chocolate sweets, such as chocolate chips or shaved chocolate. If you are making a cake for a child’s birthday party, you may want to use brightly colored sweets, such as sprinkles or chopped candies.
How do I attach sweets to the top of a cake?
Attaching sweets to the top of a cake can be a bit tricky, but there are a few different methods you can use. One method is to use a small amount of frosting or piping gel to act as “glue” to hold the sweets in place. Simply apply a small amount of frosting or piping gel to the back of the sweet and attach it to the top of the cake. You can also use a toothpick or small skewer to hold the sweet in place while the frosting or piping gel sets.
Another method is to use a dab of melted chocolate to attach the sweets to the top of the cake. This works particularly well for chocolate sweets, such as chocolate chips or shaved chocolate. Simply melt a small amount of chocolate in the microwave or in a double boiler, and then use it to attach the sweets to the top of the cake.
How do I create a pattern or design with sweets on top of a cake?
Creating a pattern or design with sweets on top of a cake can be a fun and creative process. One way to do this is to use a template or stencil to help guide the placement of the sweets. You can find templates and stencils online or create your own using cardstock or parchment paper. Simply place the template or stencil on top of the cake and use it to guide the placement of the sweets.
Another way to create a pattern or design with sweets on top of a cake is to use a freehand method. This involves simply placing the sweets on top of the cake in a pattern or design that you like. You can use a single type of sweet or mix and match different types of sweets to create a unique and interesting design. To create a symmetrical design, start by placing a sweet in the center of the cake and then work your way outwards, using a ruler or other straight edge to help guide the placement of the sweets.
How do I store a cake that has been decorated with sweets?
Storing a cake that has been decorated with sweets requires a bit of care to ensure that the sweets stay in place and the cake remains fresh. One way to store a decorated cake is to place it in an airtight container, such as a cake keeper or a large plastic container. This will help to keep the cake fresh and prevent the sweets from getting damaged.
Another way to store a decorated cake is to place it in the refrigerator. This is particularly useful if you are using perishable sweets, such as chocolates or cream-filled candies. Simply place the cake in the refrigerator and keep it chilled until you are ready to serve it. If you are storing the cake for an extended period of time, you may want to consider freezing it. Simply place the cake in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer until you are ready to serve it.
Can I use sweets to decorate a cake that has been frozen and thawed?
Yes, you can use sweets to decorate a cake that has been frozen and thawed. However, you will need to take a few precautions to ensure that the sweets stay in place and the cake remains fresh. First, make sure that the cake is completely thawed and at room temperature before decorating it with sweets. This will help to prevent the sweets from becoming dislodged or falling off the cake.
Additionally, you may want to consider using a small amount of frosting or piping gel to attach the sweets to the top of the cake. This will help to hold the sweets in place and prevent them from falling off the cake. You can also use a toothpick or small skewer to hold the sweets in place while the frosting or piping gel sets. With a little care and patience, you can create a beautifully decorated cake using sweets, even if it has been frozen and thawed.