Designer cupcakes are now getting popular in the dessert arena. The popularity of cupcakes can perhaps be attributed to the fact that they come in their own little paper case and can be eaten very easily, with just your fingers. On the other hand, large cakes and pies need a knife to cut them into different slices, and then you need a plate and fork to actually eat a single slice.
Therefore, more people prefer to serve cupcakes with attractive and fun designs during parties and special occasions, because of the flexibility and convenience that they bring. Decorating cupcakes is actually fairly simple and so much fun. You only need a few icing skills and a broad imagination, then you’re on your way to cupcake heaven! Here are a few simple tips on how to decorate cupcakes.
Bright coloured sprinkles
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The first tip is to add colour and life to your cupcakes by placing candies, sprinkles, and chocolate chips. By simply adding these ingredients as toppings on your cupcakes, you can already enhance the colour of your cupcakes. They also become more vibrant and exciting with these different kinds of toppings. There are a number of pastry shops and baking supplies stores that sell different kinds of toppings, so you can choose from a wide variety of options.
Another tip is to use a thick layer of icing on top of your cupcake, and make sure to use a variety of colors to make it more exciting. You can also choose to top your cupcakes with frostings and glazes. A lot of beginners may actually think that frostings, glazes and icings are the same, but they actually consist of different ingredients and produce very different results. When applying your frosting, icing or glazes on your cupcakes, you can use a pastry bag or spatula to give it a firm shape and a balanced look.
Glazes are the thinnest of the three toppings, and are made up of sugar and water, or sugar and milk.
Icing has the medium thickness among the three. It is also very commonly used by beginners since it is fairly easy to make and easy to apply.
Frostings are the thickest, and are made up of sugar, butter, and water or milk. Although the thickest, they are very soft and firm and are able to hold certain shapes and forms.
There are a lot of other ways to decorate cupcakes. There are literally hundreds of cupcake ideas for birthdays or for other special events. Kids love the variety of designs, especially when co-ordinated with a themed birthday party, and cupcakes provide the flexibility and convenience of easy eating and distribution, compared to larger cakes and pastries.
Kids just love to eat cupcakes that are decorated with their favourite designs or themes. Decorating cupcakes is definitely a lot of fun for the whole family, as everyone can have a go. You just need a bit of practice, and before you know it, you’re already making cupcakes for that special event.