Instructions

1. Consider the form of your cake. Before you create a template decide on how you want your cake to look in shape. Round is the most popular shape for a cake but square, heart, oblong and other shapes are used as well. Consider using a molded cake pan for a specific image of a shape or character.

2. Decide on the method of decoration. Buttercream, royal icing and fondant are just a few of the many different media that you can use to decorate your cake. Decide on what type of frosting or icing you will use to make your cake look good.

3. Figure out a design. Think about symmetry and asymmetry. A cake that is symmetrical will have elements that balance out. Asymmetrical cakes with have an intentional unevenness that can refine the design. Decide where you want to put each element on your finished cake.

4. Draw out a template on parchment paper with a pencil. Make sure the piece of parchment paper is large enough to cover the elements you want in the design.

5. Mix 1/8 cup of icing gel with 1/8 tsp. of light-colored gel food coloring in a small bowl with an icing knife.

6. Cuff the top half off a plastic disposable icing bag. Fit a plastic coupler base in the bottom of the bag. Put a small round icing tip over top. Screw a plastic coupler ring to secure the tip into place on the bag.

7. Fill the bag with the colored piping gel. Uncuff the bag and twist it to keep the icing gel in place.

8. Trace over the design you have drawn on your parchment paper by piping out the gel over the lines. Hold the bag at a 45-degree angle with the tip lightly touching the paper as you pipe. Release the pressure and pull away when finished.

9. Flip the gelled design carefully over on a prepared cake. Gently rub the surfaces around the gelled areas but not the gel itself. This will help the gel to transfer to the cake and leave the paper.

10. Peel the paper slowly away from the cake. Use the gel template as a guide to further decorate your cake.