Covering a cake with royal icing can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to cake decorating. While marzipan is often used as a base layer to help the royal icing adhere to the cake, it’s not the only option. In this article, we’ll explore the steps and techniques involved in covering a cake with royal icing without marzipan.
Preparing the Cake
Before you can start covering your cake with royal icing, you need to make sure it’s properly prepared. This involves baking and cooling the cake, as well as leveling and filling it if necessary.
Baking and Cooling the Cake
The first step in preparing your cake is to bake it. Make sure to follow a tried-and-tested recipe and use the right size and type of pan for the job. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Leveling the Cake
Once the cake is cool, you’ll need to level it to ensure it’s even and flat. You can use a cake leveler or a serrated knife to do this. Simply place the cake on a flat surface and use the leveler or knife to trim the top of the cake until it’s even.
Filling the Cake
If your cake is particularly dense or dry, you may need to fill it with a layer of buttercream or jam to add moisture and flavor. Simply place a layer of filling on top of the cake and spread it evenly.
Preparing the Royal Icing
Now that your cake is prepared, it’s time to make the royal icing. Royal icing is a type of icing that dries hard, making it perfect for decorating cakes. It’s made from powdered sugar and egg whites, and can be colored and flavored to suit your needs.
Making the Royal Icing
To make the royal icing, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Egg whites | 2-3 |
| Water | 1-2 tablespoons |
Simply combine the powdered sugar and egg whites in a large mixing bowl and beat until smooth. Add the water gradually, beating until the icing reaches the desired consistency.
Coloring and Flavoring the Royal Icing
Once the royal icing is made, you can color and flavor it to suit your needs. Simply add a few drops of food coloring or a teaspoon of extract to the icing and beat until well combined.
Covering the Cake with Royal Icing
Now that your cake is prepared and your royal icing is made, it’s time to cover the cake. This involves applying a thin layer of royal icing to the cake and smoothing it out.
Applying the Royal Icing
To apply the royal icing, simply place a large dollop of icing on top of the cake and spread it evenly. Use a flat spatula or offset spatula to smooth out the icing and remove any air pockets.
Smoothing Out the Royal Icing
Once the royal icing is applied, use a flat spatula or offset spatula to smooth it out. Hold the spatula at a 45-degree angle and use long, smooth strokes to remove any air pockets or imperfections.
Tips and Tricks for Covering a Cake with Royal Icing
Covering a cake with royal icing can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can achieve a smooth and even finish.
Using a Turntable
One of the most important tools you’ll need when covering a cake with royal icing is a turntable. A turntable allows you to easily rotate the cake as you work, making it easier to access all sides of the cake.
Working in Small Sections
To achieve a smooth and even finish, it’s best to work in small sections. Simply divide the cake into four or six sections, depending on its size, and complete one section at a time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When covering a cake with royal icing, there are a few common mistakes to avoid.
Applying Too Much Royal Icing
One of the most common mistakes people make when covering a cake with royal icing is applying too much icing. This can result in a thick, uneven layer of icing that’s difficult to smooth out.
Not Smoothing Out the Royal Icing
Another common mistake is not smoothing out the royal icing properly. This can result in a bumpy, uneven finish that’s not very attractive.
Conclusion
Covering a cake with royal icing without marzipan can be a bit challenging, but with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a smooth and even finish. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful, professional-looking cakes that are sure to impress.
What is Royal Icing and Why is it Used to Cover Cakes?
Royal icing is a type of icing made from powdered sugar and egg whites or meringue powder. It is traditionally used to cover cakes because of its smooth, hard finish and ability to set firmly, making it ideal for decorating. Royal icing can be colored and flavored to match any theme or design, and it dries hard, allowing for intricate designs and patterns to be piped onto the cake.
When used to cover a cake, royal icing provides a smooth, even surface that can be decorated with a variety of techniques, including piping, stenciling, and molding. It is also a popular choice for wedding cakes and other special occasion cakes because of its elegant appearance and durability. With proper preparation and application, royal icing can be used to create a beautiful, professional-looking cake that is sure to impress.
What are the Basic Ingredients and Tools Needed to Cover a Cake with Royal Icing?
To cover a cake with royal icing, you will need a few basic ingredients, including powdered sugar, egg whites or meringue powder, and water. You will also need a mixing bowl, a whisk or electric mixer, and a piping bag and tip. Depending on the design and decorations you plan to use, you may also need additional tools, such as a turntable, a cake stand, and a variety of piping tips and brushes.
In addition to the ingredients and tools, it is also important to have a clean and stable workspace, as well as a cake that is completely cooled and crumb-free. This will help ensure that the royal icing adheres evenly to the cake and that the finished product looks smooth and professional. It is also a good idea to have a practice cake or a small test area to test the consistency and color of the royal icing before applying it to the final cake.
How Do I Prepare the Cake for Royal Icing?
To prepare the cake for royal icing, start by making sure it is completely cooled and crumb-free. If necessary, use a crumb coat or a thin layer of buttercream to trap any stray crumbs or imperfections. Next, place the cake on a turntable or cake stand, and use a small amount of royal icing or piping gel to attach the cake to the stand. This will help prevent the cake from moving or toppling over while you work.
Once the cake is secure, use a cake leveler or a serrated knife to ensure that the cake is even and level. This is especially important if you are working with a multi-tiered cake, as uneven layers can cause the cake to topple over. Finally, use a soft brush or a lint-free cloth to remove any stray crumbs or dust from the surface of the cake, and you are ready to begin applying the royal icing.
How Do I Mix and Color Royal Icing?
To mix royal icing, start by combining the powdered sugar and egg whites or meringue powder in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add water to the mixture, whisking constantly, until the icing reaches the desired consistency. The consistency of the icing will depend on the design and decorations you plan to use, but a good starting point is a thick, pipable consistency that can be thinned out as needed.
To color royal icing, use a high-quality food coloring that is specifically designed for use with royal icing. Start with a small amount of coloring and gradually add more, mixing well between each addition, until the desired color is achieved. It is also a good idea to test the color on a small, inconspicuous area of the cake before applying it to the entire surface. This will help ensure that the color is even and consistent, and that it does not affect the texture or consistency of the icing.
How Do I Apply Royal Icing to a Cake?
To apply royal icing to a cake, start by placing a large dollop of icing on top of the cake and spreading it evenly over the surface using a flat spatula or offset spatula. Work from the top down, using long, smooth strokes to cover the entire surface of the cake. Use a turntable or cake stand to rotate the cake as you work, making it easier to access all areas of the cake.
Once the cake is fully covered, use a flat spatula or offset spatula to smooth out any air pockets or imperfections. You can also use a small amount of water or piping gel to help smooth out the icing and create a seamless finish. Finally, use a sharp knife or cake scraper to remove any excess icing from the bottom of the cake, and you are ready to begin decorating.
How Do I Achieve a Smooth, Even Finish with Royal Icing?
To achieve a smooth, even finish with royal icing, it is essential to work in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and heat. This will help prevent the icing from melting or becoming too soft, making it easier to work with. It is also important to use a high-quality royal icing that is specifically designed for covering cakes, as this will help ensure a smooth, even finish.
In addition to using the right icing and working in the right environment, it is also important to use the right tools and techniques. A flat spatula or offset spatula is ideal for spreading and smoothing out the icing, while a sharp knife or cake scraper can be used to remove any excess icing from the bottom of the cake. By combining the right icing, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a smooth, even finish that is perfect for decorating.
How Do I Store and Transport a Cake Covered in Royal Icing?
To store a cake covered in royal icing, place it in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and heat. If possible, store the cake in a cake box or container to protect it from dust and other contaminants. If you need to transport the cake, use a sturdy cake stand or turntable, and make sure the cake is securely attached to the stand using royal icing or piping gel.
When transporting the cake, it is also a good idea to use a cake box or container to protect it from dust and other contaminants. You can also use a non-slip mat or cake pad to prevent the cake from sliding or toppling over during transport. By taking the right precautions, you can ensure that your cake arrives at its destination safely and in perfect condition.