How to Frost a Cake With a Paper Towel
To frost a cake with a paper towel, dip a folded paper towel into warm water and use it to smooth out the frosting on the cake. This method allows for even and professional-looking frosting.
Frosting a cake can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not experienced in bakery and confectionery. However, there are several methods that can be employed to make frosting a cake an easy and enjoyable experience. One such method is using a paper towel to frost the cake.
This technique involves moistening a paper towel with warm water and using it to smooth out the frosting on the cake. The result is a beautifully frosted cake that looks as though it was done by a professional chef. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to frost a cake with a paper towel, making it an easy process for even the most novice of bakers.
The Benefits Of Frosting With A Paper Towel
Frosting a cake is undoubtedly the most delightful and creative part of baking, but it can also be a bit tricky. Have you ever struggled with making your frosting smooth and even? Do you find it challenging to deal with annoying crumbs or lumps while frosting your cake?
If you’re nodding your head in agreement, we have a solution for you that might just be a game-changer – frosting your cake with a paper towel!
Smooth And Even Finish
One of the main benefits of frosting with a paper towel is the smooth and even finish it creates. By using a paper towel, you can easily glide over the surface of the cake, creating a perfectly smooth base layer that’s ready for any decorative touches.
Without the use of a paper towel, the frosting can often appear uneven and patchy – not something anyone wants on their baked goods!
No Crumbs Or Lumps
Using a paper towel to frost your cake means you can say goodbye to frustrating little crumbs or lumps that can ruin your perfect finish. Unlike a spatula, which can often pick up and spread unwanted debris, a paper towel is the perfect tool to give you a clean finish.
The paper towel absorbs any crumbs or lumps in the frosting, ensuring your cake looks as perfect as possible.
Easy And Quick To Use
Another significant advantage of using a paper towel to frost your cake is just how easy and quick it is to use. While frosting with a spatula can take time and patience, using a paper towel is practically effortless. It’s a simple and straightforward process that even beginners can master in no time.
Frosting a cake with a paper towel can provide a finished appearance that is smooth and even and free from crumbs and lumps, while also being a quick and easy process. No more frustrating moments of uneven frosting layers or crumbs that ruin the look of your baked goods.
Why not give it a try next time you are baking a cake and see the difference for yourself?
Preparing Your Cake For Frosting
Before you start frosting your cake with a paper towel, you must prepare it well so that the frosting looks perfect. Here are some essentials that will help you in preparing your cake for frosting.
Cooling The Cake Completely
Before frosting your cake, you must ensure that it is completely cooled. Follow these steps to cool your cake:
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, remove the cake from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.
- Ensure that the cake is at room temperature before frosting it. Hot cakes can ruin the frosting.
Trimming Uneven Layers
Trimming your cake’s uneven layers is crucial to achieving a perfect frosted cake. Follow these simple steps to trim the uneven layers of your cake:
- Place your cake on a flat surface, such as a cake turntable, for more precise trimming.
- Using a serrated knife, slice the top off of your cake until it’s completely level.
- Cut off the cake’s sides if they’re uneven or lopsided. Use a gentle sawing motion to do this.
Applying A Crumb Coat
A crumb coat seals the cake’s crumbs to make it easier to spread frosting on top. Here’s how to apply a crumb coat:
- Place a dollop of frosting on the center of your cake and spread it evenly over the top and sides.
- Let the cake rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes, allowing the crumb coat to set.
- Once the crumb coat is set, add more frosting to the top and sides of the cake. Spread the frosting evenly across the cake.
By following these steps in preparing your cake for frosting, you’ll have a delicious looking cake that looks like it came from a bakery.
Making The Frosting
Choosing The Right Type Of Frosting
Frosting isn’t just a decoration, it’s the crowning glory of a cake. Choosing the right frosting is crucial to enhance the cake’s flavour and texture. Here are the different types of frosting you should consider:
- Buttercream: This frosting is rich, creamy and versatile, making it perfect for a wide range of cakes including cupcakes, layer cakes, and sheet cakes. It is made with butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Cream cheese frosting: This is a creamier, tangier and sweeter type of frosting. It is great for carrot cakes, spice cakes and red velvet cakes. It is made with cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Whipped cream frosting: Also known as chantilly cream, this type of frosting has a lighter texture which is perfect for light and airy cakes. It is made by whipping heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract.
- Ganache: This frosting is decadent and rich, making it ideal for chocolate cakes or as a topping on other frostings. It is made with heavy cream and chocolate.
Adding Colours And Flavours
If you want your cake to stand out, it’s time to get creative with colours and flavours. Here are some tips to help you customize your frosting:
- Colour: Start with a basic white frosting and add a few drops of food coloring to achieve the desired shade. You can also use natural ingredients like beet juice, blueberry juice, or matcha powder to dye frosting.
- Flavours: To add flavour to your frosting, you can add extracts like vanilla, almond, mint or lemon. You can also add other ingredients like cocoa powder, peanut butter, or fruit puree to transform your frosting.
Achieving The Right Consistency
The key to frosting a cake with a paper towel is to achieve the right consistency. Here’s how to make sure your frosting is just right:
- Soften your butter: To make a perfect frosting, it’s essential to use softened butter. Leave the butter at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften it. If you are running short on time, you can soften the butter in the microwave.
- Whisk until fluffy: Whisk your butter until it’s pale and fluffy. This takes approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually add sugar: Add powdered sugar to the whipped butter gradually, whisking after each addition. This ensures the sugar is well incorporated, and the frosting is smooth.
- Add liquid: To get the right consistency, you’ll need to add liquid like milk or cream. Add it gradually while mixing the frosting in a stand mixer or mixing bowl until you achieve the desired consistency. If you add too much liquid, the frosting will be too thin, and if you add too little, it will be too thick.
Applying The Frosting
How To Frost A Cake With A Paper Towel
Frosting a cake can be a real challenge, especially when you want to achieve that perfect, smooth finish. But did you know that you can use a paper towel to frost your cake? It’s a simple technique that can give your cakes a professional-quality finish with less effort.
Here’s how to do it!
Preparing The Paper Towel
Before you start frosting your cake with a paper towel, you need to make sure that the towel is prepared properly. Follow these steps to prepare the paper towel:
- Tear off a piece of paper towel, big enough to cover the size of your cake.
- Fold it in half, then fold it in half again to create four layers.
- Place the folded paper towel on a flat surface and moisten it with water, using your hand or a spray bottle.
- Squeeze out any excess water, so that the paper towel is damp but not dripping.
Applying The Frosting With The Paper Towel
Now that your paper towel is prepared, it’s time to start frosting your cake. Follow these steps to apply the frosting using the paper towel:
- Apply a coat of frosting to the cake using a spatula or knife, being as neat and even as possible.
- Hold the paper towel flat against the cake and gently press it onto the frosting, using your hands to smooth it out.
- Continue doing this all around the cake until the frosting is smooth and even.
- If there are any areas that need touching up, use a small spatula or knife to scrape off any excess frosting and smooth out the area with the paper towel.
Tips And Tricks For A Perfect Finish
Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when frosting your cake with a paper towel:
- Use a sturdy cake base or turntable to keep your cake steady when applying the frosting.
- Make sure your frosting is at a spreadable consistency, but not too thin or too thick.
- Use a light touch when pressing the paper towel onto the frosting, to avoid smudging or tearing the frosting.
- If you’re working with a very soft or sticky frosting, chill it in the fridge for a few minutes before starting the paper towel frosting technique.
- If you notice any air bubbles or wrinkles in the frosting, use a toothpick to gently prick the affected area and smooth it out with the paper towel.
And that’s it! With these simple steps and tips, you can achieve a smooth, professional-looking cake without any fancy equipment or techniques. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Frost A Cake With A Paper Towel
Can Paper Towel Be Used To Frost A Cake?
Absolutely! A paper towel is an excellent tool for a smooth, even frosting on a cake.
How Do I Get A Smooth Frosting On My Cake?
Start by applying a thin layer of frosting, and then smooth it out with a paper towel repeatedly until it’s even.
Should I Wet The Paper Towel Before Frosting A Cake?
No, it’s best to use a dry paper towel. Moisture can ruin the texture of the frosting.
What Are Some Other Benefits Of Using A Paper Towel For Frosting?
Not only does a paper towel give you a smooth finish, but it also saves time, is inexpensive, and results in less clean-up.
Conclusion
Frosting a cake can be intimidating, but using a paper towel can make the process much easier. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a smooth and beautiful finish on your cake with minimal effort. Remember to start with a cool cake, use a crumb coat, and be patient when smoothing the frosting.
If you want to add some personality to your cake, try using different colors of frosting or experimenting with patterns. With practice, you’ll be able to frost a cake with a paper towel like a pro. Not only is this method efficient, but it also saves time and creates less mess compared to traditional methods.
So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
