Frosting a Cake with Store-Bought Frosting: A Guide
Frosting a cake may seem like a challenge if you’re new to baking, but don’t be intimidated! Even with store-bought frosting, you can create a masterpiece that tastes as good as it looks. But why is frosting so important, you ask?
Importance of Frosting a Cake
Frosting a cake is not merely an afterthought, but a vital aspect of baking. The process of frosting not only enhances the overall appearance and taste of the cake, but it also provides several other key benefits. These benefits can be categorized into three main areas:
- Protection and Preservation;
- Enhancement of Flavor;
- Aesthetic Appeal and Creativity.
Let’s delve into these areas:
| Categories | Details |
|---|---|
| Protection and Preservation | The application of frosting forms a protective layer around the cake, safeguarding it from environmental factors. This layer aids in preserving the cake’s moisture and freshness. |
| Enhancement of Flavor | Frosting can significantly amplify the overall flavor of the cake. It provides an additional taste dimension, which can be customized based on personal preferences or the nature of the occasion. |
| Aesthetic Appeal and Creativity | Frosting allows for artistic expression and personalization. With a variety of tools and techniques available, it enables a baker to add a unique touch to each creation. |
Gathering Your Materials
Before embarking on the journey of frosting a cake, it’s important to ensure you have all the necessary tools at your disposal. This preparation stage can significantly influence the outcome of your frosting experience. The right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable, while also helping to achieve a professional-looking result.
List of Materials Needed
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Cake | Your cake acts as the canvas on which you will apply the frosting. The cake should be completely cooled before you start frosting to prevent the frosting from melting. A freshly baked cake is usually preferred, but a store-bought cake can also be used. |
| Store-Bought Frosting | There is a wide variety of store-bought frosting available in different flavors and colors. Depending on the size of your cake, you might need more than one container. If you’re planning to create designs or layers, ensure you have extra. |
| Spatula or Cake Smoother | These tools will help you spread the frosting evenly over the cake. An offset spatula is handy for its angled design, which gives more control and helps to keep your fingers out of the frosting. A cake smoother, on the other hand, is great for achieving a professional, smooth finish. |
| Turntable (optional) | This optional tool can significantly ease the frosting process. It allows you to smoothly rotate the cake while applying frosting, leading to a more consistent and neat finish. If you frost cakes regularly, investing in a turntable could be a good idea. |
Selecting the Right Frosting
Choosing the perfect frosting is vital. But with all the options out there, how do you know which one to pick?
Types of Store-Bought Frosting
Store-bought frosting offers a convenient option for those who want to save time and effort in the kitchen. With a wide range of flavors and textures, you can easily find a frosting that suits your taste preferences and complements the cake you’re baking. Here are some popular types of store-bought frosting:
| Frosting Type | Description | Flavors | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buttercream | Classic choice made with butter, powdered sugar, and flavorings, offering a smooth and creamy texture | Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, almond, coconut, and more | Pairs well with a variety of cake flavors, commonly used for birthday cakes and cupcakes |
| Cream Cheese | Rich, tangy, and slightly sweet frosting made with cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla | Vanilla, chocolate, lemon, pumpkin spice, and more | Popular choice for carrot cakes, red velvet cakes, and spice cakes, as it complements their sweetness with its tangy flavor |
| Chocolate | Decadent frosting made with cocoa powder or melted chocolate, butter, powdered sugar, and sometimes milk or cream | Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, fudge, and more | Versatile and can be used with various cake flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, and fruit-flavored cakes |
| Whipped | Light and airy frosting similar to whipped cream, made with heavy cream, powdered sugar, and flavorings | Vanilla, strawberry, almond, coconut, and more | Ideal for light and fluffy cakes like angel food cake or chiffon cake, adds a delicate touch without overpowering flavors |
| Ganache | Rich and velvety frosting made with chocolate and heavy cream, can be used as a glaze or whipped | Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, and more | Perfect for chocolate lovers, works well with chocolate cakes, brownies, and as a drizzle over cupcakes |
Choosing the Best Frosting
When it comes to selecting the perfect frosting for your cake, it’s important to choose one that complements the flavor of the cake without overpowering it. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
| Consideration | Description |
|---|---|
| Cake Flavor | Different frostings pair well with specific cake flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience. For example, a chocolate cake may be complemented by a rich chocolate frosting, while a vanilla cake may benefit from a subtle flavor. |
| Texture | Frostings come in various textures, from smooth and creamy to light and airy. Consider the desired texture for your cake. Ganache or cream cheese frostings are velvety and dense, while whipped or buttercream frostings are lighter and fluffier. |
| Occasion and Presentation | The occasion and presentation of the cake can influence the frosting choice. Buttercream or whipped frosting can be easily piped or decorated, making them suitable for birthdays or weddings, while ganache or cream cheese frosting provides a refined finish. |
| Personal Preferences | Your personal taste preferences, as well as those of the intended cake consumers, should be taken into account. Consider whether a sweeter, tangier, or more chocolatey flavor is preferred when selecting the best frosting for your cake. |
Preparing the Cake
Alright, you have your materials, and you’ve chosen your frosting. Now, let’s prepare the cake.
Baking the Cake
When preparing a cake from scratch, baking is a crucial step that requires attention to detail for achieving the best results. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind when baking your cake:
| Baking Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Recipe | Start by selecting a cake recipe that suits your desired flavor and occasion. Follow the recipe closely, paying attention to the ingredients, measurements, and instructions provided. |
| Ingredients | Gather all the necessary ingredients before you begin baking. Measure them accurately, following the recipe’s instructions. |
| Preparation | Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in the recipe. Prepare your baking pans as directed, ensuring easy release and preventing sticking. |
| Mixing | Follow the recipe’s instructions for mixing the cake batter, combining dry and wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can result in a dense and tough cake. |
| Baking Time and Temperature | Place filled cake pans in the preheated oven and set a timer based on the recipe’s suggested baking time. Monitor the cake’s progress and check for doneness. Adjust baking time if needed. |
| Cooling | Allow the baked cake to cool in the pans for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps the cake set and prevents crumbling when frosted. |
| Leveling and Frosting | Optionally, level the cake tops for an even surface. Then, proceed to frost the cooled cake using your chosen frosting, considering the earlier discussed flavors and types. |
Frosting the Cake
Now, the fun part – frosting the cake! But first, let’s prepare the frosting.
Prepping the Frosting
To ensure optimal consistency and ease of use, it’s important to properly prep your store-bought frosting before applying it to your cake. Here’s a detailed guide to prepping your frosting:
- Take it out of the fridge: Store-bought frosting is typically kept in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. About an hour before you plan to use it, remove the frosting from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature. This will allow the frosting to soften and become easier to spread;
- Check the texture: After the frosting has come to room temperature, give it a quick stir or whisk to ensure it has a smooth and creamy texture. If the frosting appears too stiff or hard to spread, you can microwave it in short intervals of 10-15 seconds, stirring in between, until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Be cautious not to overheat the frosting, as it can melt or become too thin;
- Adjust the consistency (optional): Depending on your preferences and the desired application, you may need to adjust the consistency of the frosting. If you find the frosting too thick, you can gradually add a small amount of milk or cream and mix until you achieve the desired spreadable texture. On the other hand, if the frosting is too thin, you can gradually add powdered sugar and mix until it thickens;
- Flavor enhancements (optional): If you wish to add extra flavor to your store-bought frosting, you can incorporate various ingredients. For example, you can mix in extracts such as vanilla, almond, or citrus zest to enhance the flavor profile. You can also experiment with adding a touch of cocoa powder, coffee, or fruit preserves to create unique and customized flavors;
- Stir and smooth: Once you have adjusted the consistency and added any desired flavor enhancements, give the frosting a final thorough stir to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated. This will result in a consistent and smooth frosting ready for application.
Applying the Frosting
Now, let’s get down to business. Here’s how to frost the top layer and the sides.
Frosting the Top Layer
When it comes to frosting the top layer of your cake, attention to detail is key to achieving a beautiful and professional-looking finish. Here’s a detailed guide on how to frost the top layer of your cake:
- Prepare the Cake: Ensure that your cake is completely cooled before proceeding with the frosting process. A warm cake may cause the frosting to melt or become unstable;
- Level the Cake (optional): If your cake has a domed or uneven top, consider leveling it with a serrated knife or cake leveler. This step will provide a flat surface for frosting and result in an evenly distributed layer;
- Pre-crumb the Cake (optional): To minimize the appearance of cake crumbs on the final layer of frosting, you can perform a pre-crumb coating. Apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake, sealing in any loose crumbs. Allow this initial layer to set before moving on to the final frosting layer;
- Apply an Even Layer: Using a spatula or an offset spatula, scoop a generous amount of frosting onto the top of the cake. Start from the center and gently spread the frosting toward the edges, working in smooth and even strokes. Aim for an even thickness of frosting across the entire top surface;
- Smooth the Frosting: After spreading the frosting, use the flat side of the spatula to smooth the surface. Hold the spatula parallel to the cake and gently glide it over the frosting, starting from the center and moving toward the edges. Continue smoothing until you achieve a level and even finish.
Frosting the Sides
Frosting the sides of a cake requires some finesse and patience to achieve a smooth and even finish. Here’s a detailed guide on how to frost the sides of your cake:
- Prepare the Cake: Ensure that your cake is completely cooled before beginning the frosting process. A warm cake can cause the frosting to melt or slide off;
- Crumb Coat (optional): Applying a crumb coat is recommended to minimize the appearance of cake crumbs in the final frosting layer. To do this, spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake, covering the top and sides. Smooth out the crumb coat as much as possible and allow it to set before proceeding;
- Apply a Dollop of Frosting: Take a generous dollop of frosting and place it on the side of the cake. Start at the bottom of the cake and work your way up. Use an offset spatula or a cake smoother to spread the frosting evenly across the sides;
- Smooth the Frosting: Holding the spatula or cake smoother at a slight angle, press gently against the frosting while rotating the cake on a turntable or cake stand. This motion helps spread the frosting evenly and create a smooth surface. Continue this process, working your way around the entire cake until all sides are frosted;
- Fill in Gaps: As you smooth the frosting, you may encounter gaps or uneven areas. To fix these, add small amounts of frosting where needed and blend it into the surrounding frosting with the spatula or cake smoother. Take your time to ensure a seamless and consistent appearance.
Adding Finishing Touches
Once your cake is frosted, you can add some finishing touches. There are countless ways to decorate a frosted cake, such as adding sprinkles, piping designs, or placing fondant shapes.
Decorative Ideas
When it comes to decorating your cake, there are countless creative options to consider. From simple embellishments to intricate designs, the key is to ensure that the decorations enhance the cake without overshadowing its main appeal. Here are some detailed decorative ideas to explore:
| Item | Description | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Sprinkles and Edible Confetti | Sprinkles and edible confetti are an easy and colorful way to add a festive touch to your cake. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing you to customize the look to match the occasion. | Sprinkle them over the top or sides of the cake for a vibrant and fun appearance. You can create patterns, borders, or simply cover the entire surface. They work well with different frosting types and cake flavors. |
| Fresh Fruits and Berries | Fresh fruits and berries not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing and natural element to your cake. Consider using sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or kiwi to create beautiful patterns or arrangements. | Arrange the fruits on top of the cake or along the sides. You can place them in a uniform pattern, create a border, or scatter them artfully. Pair them with complementary frosting flavors such as cream cheese or whipped cream. |
| Piped Designs | Piping is a versatile technique that allows you to create intricate designs and patterns using frosting. It involves using a piping bag and various tips to achieve different shapes, borders, and textures. | Experiment with different piping techniques, such as rosettes, shells, dots, or writing. Pipe decorative borders around the top or bottom edges of the cake, or create personalized messages or names. Piping works well with buttercream or whipped frostings. |
| Fondant Decorations | Fondant is a pliable icing that can be rolled out and used to cover the entire cake or create decorative figures, shapes, or accents. It provides a smooth and polished finish. | Roll out the fondant to cover the cake entirely or cut it into shapes like flowers, bows, or characters. Fondants can be molded and shaped to bring your creative ideas to life. Use it for more elaborate designs and custom cake themes. |
| Chocolate Ganache Drizzle | Chocolate ganache is a rich and glossy mixture of chocolate and cream. It can be drizzled over the cake for an elegant and decadent touch. | Prepare a smooth ganache by heating cream and pouring it over chopped chocolate. Let it cool slightly and then drizzle it over the top of the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides. This adds a luxurious and visually appealing element to your cake. |
Conclusion
Frosting a cake with store-bought frosting is a rewarding and fun process. With these steps, you can turn any cake into a frosted masterpiece. Now, it’s time to put your skills to the test and start frosting!
FAQs
Yes, you can. However, this guide primarily emphasizes the use of store-bought frosting for convenience. When deciding whether to use homemade or store-bought frosting, there are a few factors to consider:
Homemade frosting: Offers the freedom to control ingredients and customize flavors based on personal preferences, allowing for unique and creative flavor combinations. It is made using ingredients such as butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and sometimes milk or cream, with a process involving creaming the butter, gradually adding powdered sugar, and incorporating other flavorings. The result is a homemade frosting with a smooth and creamy texture that enhances the overall taste of baked goods;
Store-bought frosting: Provides convenience, saving time and effort in the kitchen. It comes in a wide range of pre-made flavors and textures, ready to use without any extra preparation. With a longer shelf life than homemade frosting, it eliminates the need for measuring ingredients, washing mixing bowls, and additional kitchen tasks, making it a quick and convenient option for frosting cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods.
When determining how much frosting you need for a cake, there are a few factors to consider:
Size of the cake: The amount of frosting required will vary based on the size of the cake. Larger cakes will typically require more frosting to cover the surface adequately;
Desired thickness of frosting: The amount of frosting you want to apply to your cake will also affect how much you need. If you prefer a thick layer of frosting, you’ll need more compared to a thin layer.
As a general guideline, 16 oz. a tub of frosting is typically sufficient to cover a two-layer cake. However, this estimate can vary depending on the size of the layers and your personal preference for frosting thickness. It’s always better to have a little extra frosting on hand to ensure you can cover the cake adequately.
If you’re unsure about the exact amount you’ll need, you can always start with a smaller quantity and add more as needed. It’s easier to add extra frosting gradually than to have too much and risk an overly thick or excessive layer.
If your frosting is too hard to spread, here’s what you can do:
Leave it at room temperature: Allow the frosting to sit at room temperature for a while. This will help soften it and make it easier to spread. Depending on the initial hardness of the frosting, it may take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour to reach a more spreadable consistency;
Mix or beat it: If leaving the frosting at room temperature doesn’t sufficiently soften it, you can try mixing or beating it with a spatula or an electric mixer. This process helps incorporate air and warmth, making the frosting smoother and easier to spread. However, be careful not to overmix, as this may lead to a loss of structure and affect the overall texture;
Add a liquid or fat: If the frosting is still too hard, you can try adding a small amount of liquid or fat to loosen it up. For example, you can add a teaspoon of milk, cream, or melted butter to the frosting and mix it thoroughly. This will add moisture and make the frosting more pliable for spreading.
Yes, you can frost a cake the day before serving it, and it is actually a recommended practice. Here are some reasons why:
Allows the frosting to set: By frosting the cake in advance, you give the frosting enough time to firm up and create a stable surface. This makes it easier to transport the cake if needed and helps prevent any smudging or smearing of the frosting during handling;
Enhances flavor development: When the cake is frosted ahead of time, the flavors have a chance to develop and blend together. The frosting acts as a barrier, sealing in the moisture and enhancing the taste of the cake layers. This results in a more delicious and well-rounded flavor profile when the cake is finally served.
To ensure the best results, it’s important to store the frosted cake properly:
Proper storage: Once the cake is frosted, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or place it in a cake container. This helps protect the cake from drying out while allowing any excess moisture to escape;
Room temperature or refrigeration: Store the cake at room temperature if the frosting doesn’t require refrigeration. However, if the frosting contains perishable ingredients such as dairy or cream, it’s best to refrigerate the cake. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents any potential food safety issues.
By frosting the cake the day before serving and storing it correctly, you can ensure that the frosting sets and the flavors have a chance to develop, resulting in a beautifully finished and delicious cake when it’s time to be enjoyed.
