How to Frost a Cake

The difference between baking your own cake and buying one from the store is that you have more fun in the kitchen. Frosting a cake is also more fun because it's the final touches of making a cake and the enjoyment of how much frosting goes onto it. This article will explain how to frost a basic cake, in addition of frosting a layer cake.

Steps

Basic Frosting

1. Be sure that the cake(s) are cooled down. If the frosting touches a hot cake, then it may melt. The picture on the right is created by dividing the cake's batter into two pans. You may bake one cake and cut it into layers using toothpicks or dental floss.
2. Carefully remove the cake from the pan and place it on a plate. Be sure to dust off any loose crumbs before frosting. If you want a nicer presentation, you may layer wax paper around the edge of the plate before putting the cake on.
3. Scoop about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of frosting and place it on the center of the cake topping.
4. Spread it evenly around the top, rotating the plate as you spread. Use leftover frosting or another scoop to cover the sides.
   • If you are doing a layered cake, the sides aren't needed right now.

Layered Cake

1. Place the second layer on top of the bottom layer. Also be sure that there isn't any loose crumbs on this layer.
2. Use 1/2 cup of frosting for spreading on the top.
3. Be sure to cover the sides with any remaining frosting.

Final Touches

1. Dip or wet the knife/spatula in water and shake off any drips.
2. Smooth out the top by spreading the damp utensil across the cake in rows. Damp it again and go around the sides in a circular motion.
3. Remove the wax paper, if used, or wipe the plate's edge with paper towels to finish.
4. Design your cake with sprinkles, icing, and other goodies.
5. Place the cake in the refrigerator until it's ready to be served.

Tips

• If you are using wax paper underneath, make sure you only cover the cake's edges and have the ability to easily pull them out. You don't want to snag the cake with it.
• If you have bubbles or bumps on your cake, just scrap it off with a knife and level the area. The frosting will cover any "marks".
• Make sure that the frosting is room temperature before using it. Cold frosting will be harder to spread and move around; it also may create cracks in the cake if you force spread the frosting.