When it comes to decorating a cake, one of the most crucial steps is covering it. This process not only enhances the appearance of the cake but also protects it from drying out and absorbing odors from the environment. The type of material used to cover a cake depends on several factors, including the type of cake, the occasion, and personal preference. In this article, we will delve into the world of cake covering, exploring the various materials and techniques used to achieve a beautiful and professional finish.
Introduction to Cake Covering Materials
Cake covering materials are designed to provide a smooth, even surface for decorating. The most common materials used for cake covering are fondant, buttercream, and ganache. Each of these materials has its own unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.
Fondant: The Most Popular Cake Covering Material
Fondant is a pliable sugar dough that can be molded, shaped, and smoothed to cover a cake. It is available in a variety of colors and flavors, making it a versatile choice for cake decorators. Fondant is the most popular cake covering material due to its ease of use, durability, and ability to be molded into intricate designs. There are two main types of fondant: rolled fondant and poured fondant. Rolled fondant is the most commonly used type, as it can be easily rolled out to the desired thickness and smoothed over the cake. Poured fondant, on the other hand, is used for creating intricate designs and patterns.
Buttercream: A Delicious and Versatile Alternative
Buttercream is a sweet, creamy frosting made from butter, sugar, and milk or cream. It is a popular choice for cake covering due to its delicious flavor and ease of use. Buttercream is a great alternative to fondant, as it can be colored and flavored to match any theme or occasion. There are several types of buttercream, including American buttercream, Swiss meringue buttercream, and Italian meringue buttercream. Each type has its own unique characteristics and advantages, making it suitable for different types of cakes and decorating techniques.
Ganache: A Rich and Decadent Option
Ganache is a rich, velvety chocolate mixture made from melted chocolate and heavy cream. It is a popular choice for cake covering due to its decadent flavor and smooth, even texture. Ganache is a great option for chocolate cakes, as it provides a deep, intense flavor and a beautiful, glossy finish. There are several types of ganache, including dark, milk, and white chocolate ganache. Each type has its own unique characteristics and advantages, making it suitable for different types of cakes and decorating techniques.
Techniques for Covering a Cake
Covering a cake requires a combination of skill, patience, and practice. The technique used to cover a cake depends on the type of material being used and the desired finish. Here are some general tips and techniques for covering a cake:
To cover a cake with fondant, start by preparing the cake surface. This involves crumb-coating the cake with a thin layer of buttercream or ganache, and then chilling it in the refrigerator until firm. Next, roll out the fondant to the desired thickness and smooth it over the cake, starting from the top and working your way down. Use a fondant smoother or a cake turntable to achieve a smooth, even finish.
To cover a cake with buttercream, start by preparing the cake surface. This involves leveling the cake and applying a thin layer of buttercream to the top and sides. Next, use an offset spatula or a cake turntable to smooth out the buttercream, starting from the top and working your way down. Use a turntable to achieve a smooth, even finish and to create a sharp edge at the bottom of the cake.
To cover a cake with ganache, start by preparing the cake surface. This involves leveling the cake and applying a thin layer of ganache to the top and sides. Next, use an offset spatula or a cake turntable to smooth out the ganache, starting from the top and working your way down. Use a turntable to achieve a smooth, even finish and to create a sharp edge at the bottom of the cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When covering a cake, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include:
Using too much material, which can result in a thick, uneven finish
Not preparing the cake surface properly, which can result in a rough, uneven finish
Not using the right tools, which can result in a messy, uneven finish
Not working in a cool, dry environment, which can cause the material to melt or become too soft
Tips for Achieving a Smooth Finish
To achieve a smooth finish when covering a cake, it is essential to use the right tools and techniques. Here are some tips for achieving a smooth finish:
Use a turntable to create a sharp edge at the bottom of the cake and to achieve a smooth, even finish
Use an offset spatula to smooth out the material, starting from the top and working your way down
Use a fondant smoother or a cake turntable to achieve a smooth, even finish with fondant
Work in a cool, dry environment to prevent the material from melting or becoming too soft
Conclusion
Covering a cake is an art that requires skill, patience, and practice. The type of material used to cover a cake depends on several factors, including the type of cake, the occasion, and personal preference. Fondant, buttercream, and ganache are the most common materials used for cake covering, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can achieve a beautiful, professional finish and create stunning cakes that are sure to impress. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cake decorator, practicing and experimenting with different materials and techniques is the key to mastering the art of cake covering.
In terms of the materials and the techniques used to cover a cake, the following table summarizes the information:
| Material | Description | Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Fondant | A pliable sugar dough that can be molded and smoothed | Roll out to desired thickness, smooth over cake, and use a fondant smoother or cake turntable |
| Buttercream | A sweet, creamy frosting made from butter, sugar, and milk or cream | Apply a thin layer to top and sides, smooth out with offset spatula or cake turntable |
| Ganache | A rich, velvety chocolate mixture made from melted chocolate and heavy cream | Apply a thin layer to top and sides, smooth out with offset spatula or cake turntable |
By considering the type of cake, occasion, and personal preference, you can choose the right material and technique to achieve a stunning, professional finish. Remember to practice and experiment with different materials and techniques to master the art of cake covering.
What are the most common materials used to cover a cake?
The most common materials used to cover a cake are fondant, buttercream, and ganache. Fondant is a popular choice because it can be molded and shaped to create intricate designs and smooth surfaces. It is available in a variety of colors and can be flavored to match the cake. Buttercream, on the other hand, is a classic choice for covering cakes, and it can be colored and flavored to match any theme or taste. Ganache is a rich and decadent material made from chocolate and cream, and it is often used to cover cakes that require a more luxurious and indulgent finish.
When choosing a material to cover a cake, it is essential to consider the theme, taste, and texture of the cake. For example, if the cake is a delicate fruit cake, a light and airy buttercream may be the best choice. If the cake is a rich and decadent chocolate cake, a ganache covering may be more suitable. Fondant, on the other hand, is a versatile material that can be used to cover a wide range of cake types and themes. Ultimately, the choice of material will depend on the cake designer’s personal preference and the desired finish.
What is the difference between fondant and buttercream?
Fondant and buttercream are two popular materials used to cover cakes, but they have distinct differences in terms of texture, taste, and application. Fondant is a pliable sugar dough that can be molded and shaped to create smooth surfaces and intricate designs. It has a smooth and firm texture, and it can be colored and flavored to match any theme or taste. Buttercream, on the other hand, is a creamy and sweet frosting made from butter, sugar, and milk or cream. It has a light and airy texture, and it is often used to create a rustic and-homey finish.
The application of fondant and buttercream also differs. Fondant is typically applied to the cake by draping it over the top and smoothing it out with a fondant smoother or a paddle. Buttercream, on the other hand, is applied using a piping bag and tip, or by spreading it onto the cake with a spatula. The choice between fondant and buttercream ultimately depends on the desired finish and the cake designer’s personal preference. Fondant is ideal for creating smooth and intricate designs, while buttercream is perfect for creating a light and airy texture.
How do I prepare a cake for covering?
Preparing a cake for covering is an essential step in the cake decorating process. Before applying any covering material, the cake must be completely cooled and crumb-free. This can be achieved by baking the cake a day in advance and storing it in an airtight container. The cake should also be leveled and trimmed to ensure it is even and symmetrical. Any imperfections or holes on the surface of the cake should be filled with a small amount of frosting or buttercream.
Once the cake is prepared, it can be covered with a thin layer of frosting or buttercream, known as a crumb coat. This helps to trap any crumbs or imperfections, creating a smooth surface for the final covering material. The crumb coat should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to set before applying the final covering material. This ensures that the cake is stable and secure, and it prevents any crumbs or imperfections from showing through the final covering.
What are the basic tools and equipment needed for covering a cake?
The basic tools and equipment needed for covering a cake include a turntable, a fondant smoother or paddle, a rolling pin, and a cake lifter. A turntable is essential for rotating the cake and accessing all sides, while a fondant smoother or paddle is used to smooth out the fondant and remove any air pockets. A rolling pin is necessary for rolling out the fondant to the desired thickness, and a cake lifter is used to lift and move the cake without damaging the covering.
Other essential tools and equipment include a sharp knife or cake slicer, a pastry bag and tips, and a variety of smoothers and textures. A sharp knife or cake slicer is used to trim and level the cake, while a pastry bag and tips are used to apply buttercream or frosting. A variety of smoothers and textures can be used to create different effects and finishes on the cake, from smooth and shiny to rough and textured. Having the right tools and equipment is essential for achieving a professional-looking finish and making the cake decorating process easier and more efficient.
How do I achieve a smooth finish when covering a cake with fondant?
Achieving a smooth finish when covering a cake with fondant requires a combination of proper preparation, technique, and tools. First, the cake must be completely cooled and crumb-free, and it should be covered with a thin layer of frosting or buttercream to create a smooth surface. The fondant should be rolled out to the desired thickness, and it should be applied to the cake by draping it over the top and smoothing it out with a fondant smoother or paddle.
To achieve a smooth finish, it is essential to remove any air pockets or bubbles that form under the fondant. This can be done by gently lifting and smoothing out the fondant, or by using a fondant smoother or paddle to push out any air pockets. The fondant should be smoothed out in all directions, starting from the top and working down. Any excess fondant should be trimmed away, and the edges should be sealed with a small amount of water or fondant glue. With practice and patience, it is possible to achieve a smooth and professional-looking finish when covering a cake with fondant.
Can I cover a cake with multiple layers of covering material?
Yes, it is possible to cover a cake with multiple layers of covering material, depending on the desired finish and design. For example, a cake can be covered with a layer of ganache, followed by a layer of fondant, and finally decorated with a layer of buttercream or frosting. This technique is often used to create a multi-dimensional and textured finish, and it can add depth and interest to the cake.
When covering a cake with multiple layers of covering material, it is essential to allow each layer to set and firm up before applying the next layer. This prevents the layers from mixing and creates a stable and secure finish. It is also important to choose covering materials that are compatible and will not melt or soften when exposed to heat or moisture. With proper planning and execution, it is possible to create a stunning and unique cake design using multiple layers of covering material.
How do I store a covered cake to keep it fresh?
Storing a covered cake requires careful planning and attention to detail to keep it fresh and prevent damage. The cake should be stored in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. If the cake is covered with fondant or buttercream, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If the cake is covered with ganache or cream cheese frosting, it should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent melting and spoilage.
When storing a covered cake, it is essential to keep it away from strong-smelling foods and chemicals, as the cake can absorb odors and flavors easily. The cake should also be handled gently and carefully to prevent damage to the covering material. If the cake is being stored for an extended period, it can be frozen to preserve freshness. The cake should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in a freezer-safe container. When thawing a frozen cake, it should be allowed to come to room temperature slowly and carefully to prevent damage to the covering material.