Ingredients
For the Cake Prep
For the Frosting (see detailed recipe)
Instructions
Step 1
Your cake should be thoroughly chilled before you begin the smoothing process, ideally overnight in the refrigerator. This helps the frosting to set well.
Step 2
Start by applying a rough layer of frosting over the entire cake. This is called the crumb coat, and it captures any loose crumbs. After applying the crumb coat, place the cake in the refrigerator for about 15 to 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
Step 3
Once the crumb coat has set, it's time to add the final layer of frosting. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. After completing this step, put the cake back in the refrigerator for 5 minutes.
Step 4
After chilling the cake again, use a spatula to give it a final smooth. Take your time to ensure a polished finish. Your cake should now be beautifully smooth and ready for decoration!
Servings
For a casual get-together, slice your cake into generous pieces and serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of creamy ice cream against that smooth frosting? Pure bliss! 🍦
And don’t forget to take a moment to snap some gorgeous photos for social media before everyone dives in. Beautiful food is Instagram-worthy food after all! 📸
Equipment
This handy tool helps you slice off the top of your cake evenly, ensuring a flat surface for frosting. If you don’t have one, a serrated knife will work fine too. Just take your time!
A must-have for spreading and smoothing frosting. Its angled blade helps you reach those tricky edges and corners easily.
Allowing your cake to cool completely before frosting is essential. A cooling rack offers airflow all around your cake, preventing sogginess and allowing for perfect cooling.
Your finished cake deserves a solid base! A good board makes transporting your cake easier and adds stability for decorating.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option: Simply replace regular flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. You won’t sacrifice flavor or texture, we promise! 🌾
Vegan Alternative: Swap out eggs for flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg), use almond milk instead of dairy, and choose vegan butter for the frosting. You'll create a delightful cake that everyone can enjoy! 🌱
Faq
- What if my cake is still warm when I try to frost it?
Frosting a warm cake can lead to a melty disaster! Make sure your cake is completely chilled. If you're in a hurry, place it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes after cooling.
- How do I know when to stop leveling my cake?
Stop when the surface is even across the entire top. You can use a toothpick or a long serrated knife to check levels if you’re not sure!
- What’s the best way to apply a crumb coat?
A crumb coat is a thin layer of frosting to seal in crumbs. Simply apply it quickly and keep the layer thin. Chill the cake afterward to set the crumb coat before applying the final layer.
- Can I frost a cake the day before serving?
Absolutely! Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. This can also improve flavor as the cake continues to rest and the frosting settles into the cake.
- How can I achieve sharp edges with my frosting?
Using a bench scraper or an offset spatula for smoothing while applying gentle pressure will help create the sharp edges everyone wants. Chill the cake between layers for better results!
- What's the best way to store leftover cake?
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh, and store it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment!
