How to Use an Icing Tube_Baking Techniques

How to Use an Icing Tube

There’s something about the sight of a cook with an icing tube – also referred to as a pastry and decorating bag – in her hand that signals a professional at work. Paradoxically, this very association may cause people to shy away from using this kitchen tool in the first place. But have no fear. Think of decorating bags as no more complicated than the ready-to-use plastic ones at the store: You squeeze on the tube to dispense the icing. Yes, you have to load the tube with icing, but once you master the straightforward process, you’ll be forever free to make your own homemade and superior icings from scratch.

Things You'll Need

Icing tip
Icing tube

Round glass or rotund beer mug
Spoon or spatula

Preparation

Place the icing tip, pointy side down, into the icing tube. Adjust the tip, if necessary, so that it juts out from the very bottom end of the tube.
Place the icing tube into a tall, round glass or rotund beer mug. This will ensure that the tube stays steady and secure as you fill the tube with icing. As such, it might reduce the spills and mess that could ensue if you try to keep the tube open with one hand while filling it with icing with the other.
Pull the edges of the icing tube over the glass or mug, about halfway down. Load the tube with icing, using a large spoon or spatula.
Lift the icing tube out of the glass or mug. Place the tube on a hard surface, turn down the top edges of the tube and press the icing in the direction of the icing tip with both hands. You should have a nice, plump icing tube at this point.
Grab the top edge of the icing tube and twirl it. Now it’s decision time: You can either keep the top edge untied or you can secure the top edge with a nylon tie. Either way, you will squeeze the icing down the tube as you decorate and the tube gradually empties. You may wish to experiment with both options to determine which technique is most comfortable for you.

Application

Grasp the icing tube in one hand with your thumb and fingers and use your other hand to hold the tube pointing downward. Take a few minutes to acclimate yourself to the feel of the tube; your comfort level will bolster your confidence.
Put the icing tip against the surface of the cake, cupcake or other baked good you wish to ice. Press the tube until the icing begins to flow out of the tip, then immediately lift it from the surface. Continue to press on the tube to release the icing until you’re satisfied with the effect.
Exert steady, consistent pressure on the icing tube as you work. Take your time, but don’t pause or plod along the way. Achieving a steady flow should result in a pleasing finish, whether you’re using the icing to write someone’s name or create a puff of sugary flavor.

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