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If you’re looking to start decorating cakes, you will want these tools for cake decorating, in your kithen by your side!
I love decorating layer cakes. I don’t get to do it often because then there’s a lot of cake around, but I love everything about layer cakes. Whenever I get a chance and have the time, I think about my next layer cake. The entire process is exciting – from designing the cake, dreaming up flavor combinations, learning new techniques, and trying the latest cake trends.
But before you get to that cake trend part, you have to get the basics.
Baking the cake. Stacking the cake. Filling the cake. Crumb Coat. – There are a lot of steps involved.
Learning the basics of cake decorating as a beginner is a lot easier when you have the right tools.
Then you can go forth and experiment with all the cake trends and designs your heart desires!
Here I’m sharing my favorite cake decorating tools for layer cakes to make the process just a little simpler, even if you are a beginner!
Essential Tools for Cake Decorating for Beginners
Good quality, straight edge cake pans
Starting with flat, straight, and level cakes makes cake decorating so much easier! Using good quality pans ensures that your cake bakes evenly and the sides are nice and straight.Most of my cake pans are anodized aluminum.
I typically use the brands Fat Daddios and Wilton!
Cake Turntable
Now, this is not a necessary tool to add to your arsenal, but it makes the cake decorating process SO MUCH simpler. If you’re after that smooth buttercream finish, spinning the cake around on a turntable will make it a less stressful project!
Offset Spatula
I use my offset spatula for a LOT of things. When it comes to cake decorating, I use it to smooth frosting between the cake layers and smooth out the sides and tops of the cake.
Grabbing a set that comes in different sizes helps if you are experimenting with cakes of different sizes, and even for smaller decorations on top!
Bench Scraper
Like I mentioned in my guide to tools for all home bakers, I use bench scrapers for everything!
A bench scraper is probably the best tool to smooth out taller cakes (like 3 and 4 layer cakes). I prefer ones that are made of metal and have one that has a little handle so you can apply even pressure to the cakes.
I’ve been loving this one from Williams Sonoma.
You can even find bench scrapers with a straight edge on one side and a jagged edge to make a funky striped cake!
I used a similar comb for my striped rainbow cake!
Pastry Bags & Piping Tips
While it is not impossible to decorate a cake without pastry bags and piping tips. I find that they are necessary for so many pretty designs and to experiment with different cake trends.
A simple rope border on top of a cake is such a simple and minimalistic design – and a pastry bag and a few piping tips would make that so easy!
Cake Boards
I started cake decorating without cake boards. I would place my cake on a plate and decorate on top of the plate. However, placing the cake on a cake board is the ideal flat surface. Plus if you’re planning to take the cake to an event, a cake board is ideal to transport the cake!
Choose cake boards that are greaseproof, so the buttercream doesn’t stain the cake board while you are decorating it.
Nice to have cake decorating tools
Cake Leveler
I personally don’t use a cake leveler. Most of my cake recipes bake flat. And if they don’t, I just use a knife to cut off the domed top.
I also bake thinner cake layers, so I don’t have to slice them in half to decorate.
Decorative cake stands
These are highly optional but I honestly think if you’re going to create a pretty cake, you have to show off your masterpiece.
You can find lots of decorative cake stands online from brands like Amalfi Decor (a few of which I have my eye on), or in your favorite home goods stores too!
Sprinkles
Did you really think you would get a whole post here without a mention of sprinkles?
Sprinkles are by far my favorite way to decorate all baked goods – and cakes are no exception!
You can either stock a few colors of sprinkles you like in a variety of shapes, or indulge in some premium sprinkles.
So many cool companies now make premium sprinkle blends to inspire your designs for all occasions. Some of my favorites are:
- Sweetapolita
- Fancy Sprinkles
- Neon Yolk – currently in love with this Desert Rose sprinkle mix!
If you’re looking for more recommendations for baking tools, here are some in-depth guides:
Follow me on Instagram @sprinklesandscribbles for more cake and dessert inspiration!
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