Step by Step Guide to using Edible Cake Toppers
Here’s a step-by-step tutorial on how to use edible cake toppers to decorate your cakes. Edible cake toppers are a great way to add a personalized and professional touch to your baked creations. These toppers are often made from materials like edible wafer paper, fondant, or icing sheets, and they can be printed with images, designs, or even text.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin, you’ll need the following items:
Edible cake topper (wafer paper, icing sheet, or fondant topper)
Scissors (for cutting out the topper, if necessary)
Cake (frosted and ready to be decorated)
Edible glue or piping gel (optional, for securing the topper)
Fondant or buttercream (for additional decorating, if desired)
Clean hands and workspace
Step 2: Prepare Your Cake
Before applying the topper, make sure your cake is ready for decoration. Here are some key steps to ensure a smooth process:
Frost the cake: Make sure your cake has a smooth layer of frosting (buttercream, fondant, etc.). The surface should be smooth and free of any lumps.
Allow the cake to cool: If the cake is freshly baked, allow it to cool completely before applying any toppers.
Step 3: Prepare the Edible Cake Topper
Depending on the type of topper, follow the instructions for preparation:
Icing Sheets or Wafer Paper: These toppers typically come in a flat sheet with a protective backing.
Icing Sheets: Simply peel the topper from the backing once you’re ready to use it. You can trim the topper with scissors to fit the size of your cake.
Wafer Paper: Wafer paper is delicate, so handle it carefully. If it’s too stiff, you can lightly steam it for a few seconds to soften it. Trim it to the desired size.
Step 4: Apply the Edible Cake Topper
Place the topper on your cake:
For wafer paper or icing sheet toppers, gently place the topper directly onto the surface of the frosted cake.
If the topper is sticking or you want extra hold, lightly brush the back of the topper with edible glue or piping gel. This will help it adhere better to the cake.
Smooth the topper: Once placed, carefully smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles. You can gently press the edges to ensure the topper sticks properly.
Trim excess: If your topper is larger than your cake, use a pair of scissors to trim the edges to fit.
Step 5: Add Extra Decorations (Optional)
If you want to add extra elements to complement your edible topper, you can:
Pipe buttercream or fondant decorations around the topper.
Add edible glitter, sprinkles, or confetti for some extra sparkle.
Add additional elements like flowers or sugar figurines around the topper for a more elaborate design.
Step 6: Let the Cake Set
Once you’ve applied your topper, allow the cake to set for a few minutes to ensure everything adheres well. If you’ve used edible glue or piping gel, it will help keep the topper in place.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Your cake is now ready for display! Be sure to serve it fresh, and enjoy the beauty of your edible cake topper!
Tips for Using Edible Cake Toppers:
Storage: Edible toppers like wafer paper and icing sheets should be stored in a cool, dry place and kept sealed in their original packaging until use. Avoid refrigerating them as moisture can cause them to warp.
Moisture: Avoid applying edible toppers to very moist or wet surfaces. (eg, fresh cream) The moisture can cause the topper to become soggy or dissolve.
Freshness: If your topper is printed, use it within the recommended time frame. The edible inks can sometimes fade over time.
For better adhesion: Use a thin layer of buttercream, royal icing, or piping gel under the topper to ensure it sticks better to the cake.
Using edible cake toppers is a simple yet effective way to elevate your cake decoration skills. Whether you’re making a birthday cake, wedding cake, or simply a fun treat, these toppers make the process faster and easier while ensuring professional-looking results. Enjoy decorating and have fun!
Creating Stand-up Toppers
Cutting images out from icing sheets requires a bit of care and the right tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it effectively:
Materials Needed:
Icing sheet (edible image)
Scissors or a craft knife
A clean, flat surface
Fondant or gum paste
Instructions:
Prepare Your Workspace:
Place your icing sheet on a clean, flat surface like a table or countertop.
Cut Out the Image:
If you’re working with a full icing sheet, use a sharp scissors and or kraft knife to cut out each specific shape or design you need.
Work Slowly and Gently:
Cut slowly to avoid tearing the icing sheet. Try not to apply too much pressure on the icing.
Use smooth, fluid motions to follow the edges of the image.
Remove the Cut Image:
Once the image is cut out, gently peel it off the backing paper. If the icing is sticking, try warming your hands slightly and gently lifting from the corners.
Apply to Your Cake or Dessert:
Once cut out, place your image carefully onto your cake or dessert. If needed, use a little edible glue or water to help it stick.
Creating Stand Up Toppers
Roll the Fondant or Gum Paste: Dust your work surface with a little powdered sugar or cornstarch and roll out the fondant or gum paste to about 1/8 inch thick.
Cut Out Shapes: Use a sharp knife or kraft knife to cut out the fondant around your icing sheet images.
Let the Toppers Dry: To ensure your toppers stand up, let them dry for several hours (or overnight) on a flat surface or Styrofoam to maintain their shape.
Use a Skewer or Toothpick for Stability (Optional): If your topper is large or heavy, you can insert a small toothpick or lollipop stick into the bottom to provide extra support. Make sure the toothpick is completely covered in fondant or gum paste to keep it edible.
Place the Toppers on the Cake: Once your toppers are fully dry, place them on the cake or cupcakes. If necessary, use a dab of edible glue or a small amount of water to help them stick to the cake’s surface.
Ensure Stability: Make sure the toppers are stable and will not fall over. For heavier toppers, use a little more support (like inserting a lollipop stick into the cake).
Displaying Your Toppers:
Once your toppers are placed, allow them to sit on the cake until serving time.
Be cautious about humidity as it can cause fondant to soften, which may affect the topper’s ability to stand up.
Tips:
If you need to cut multiple shapes, using a craft punch or cookie cutter can help make the process faster and cleaner.
If the icing sheet is very thin or dry, it can crack easily. Be gentle when cutting and handling.
Be sure to keep your tools clean to avoid contamination, especially if you are using scissors or knives that have been used for non-food purposes.
With patience and the right tools, you’ll be able to create perfect cutouts from your icing sheets!