Learn to Cook: Bridget Lancaster Explains How to Frost a Cake

Summary

This tutorial walks you through the process of frosting a homemade cake to achieve a smooth, professional finish. It covers essential steps like leveling the cake, applying frosting with precision, and smoothing out imperfections using various spatula techniques. The guide highlights important tips for avoiding cake crumbs in frosting and ensuring an even layer throughout the process. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your cake-decorating skills, this video offers clear instructions to help you frost a cake like a pro, leaving you with a polished, beautifully finished treat.

Takeaways

• 😀 Use a serrated knife to level your cake layers for a smooth, even top.
• 😀 Ensure your cake is completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
• 😀 Use parchment paper strips around the plate to prevent frosting from touching the plate.
• 😀 A cake stand is preferred for easy frosting, but a flat platter can work if it is level and rimless.
• 😀 Anchor the cake to the stand by placing a small amount of frosting in the center before adding the first cake layer.
• 😀 Ensure your frosting is soft enough to avoid gouging into the cake, but firm enough to hold its shape.
• 😀 When frosting, push the frosting out to the edges of the cake, allowing it to spill over the sides for a smooth finish.
• 😀 Use a brush to remove any crumbs from the cake before frosting to avoid embedding them into the frosting.
• 😀 If frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 10–20 minutes to firm it up before applying.
• 😀 A crumb coat can be applied by using a thin layer of frosting, then refrigerating the cake to lock in any loose crumbs.
• 😀 To achieve a smooth finish, heat your spatula with warm water and wipe it dry before smoothing out the frosting.

Q & A

Why is it important to remove the dome from the cake layers?

Removing the dome from the cake layers ensures that the surface is flat, making it easier to stack the layers and apply an even amount of frosting.

How can you ensure the cake doesn't slide while frosting?

To prevent the cake from sliding, apply a small amount of frosting to the center of the cake stand before placing the first cake layer. This will anchor the cake in place.

What should you do if the frosting feels too stiff?

If the frosting is too stiff, allow it to sit at room temperature for a while. Alternatively, if it's too soft or starts to melt in a hot kitchen, refrigerate it for 10 to 20 minutes to firm it up.

What is the purpose of using a crumb coat?

A crumb coat is a thin layer of frosting applied to the cake to lock in any loose crumbs. It helps create a smooth final layer of frosting and prevents crumbs from appearing in the finished cake.

How can you achieve a smoother frosting finish on the cake?

To smooth the frosting, use a spatula heated in warm water. This will slightly melt the frosting, allowing it to be smoothed out more easily. You can also use a straight spatula for the top and a flexible offset spatula for the sides.

What is the best way to handle cake crumbs when frosting?

To avoid getting crumbs in the frosting, brush away any loose crumbs before applying the frosting. If you notice crumbs in the frosting, use a crumb coat to lock them in place before applying a final smooth layer.

Why should you rotate the cake stand while frosting?

Rotating the cake stand helps ensure that the frosting is applied evenly on all sides of the cake, and it makes it easier to smooth out the frosting as you go.

What should you do if you see any low spots in the frosting?

If you notice low spots in the frosting, simply add a small blob of frosting to fill them in and smooth it out to create an even surface.

Can you frost a cake in advance, and how should it be stored?

Yes, you can frost a cake in advance. If you do, store it in a cake dome or an overturned salad spinner bowl to keep it fresh. If refrigerated, remove the cake from the fridge at least 1 hour before serving for the best taste.

What is the significance of using an elevated cake stand?

An elevated cake stand makes it easier to check the level of the frosting and allows you to work on the cake without obstruction, giving you better control over the frosting process.