When was icing put on cake?

It's difficult to pinpoint an exact date for when icing was first put on cake. The history of cake and icing is long and intertwined, evolving over centuries.

Here's what we know:

* Ancient Times: Ancient civilizations had forms of cake and sweet toppings. The Egyptians used honey and fruit to decorate cakes, while the Romans used a mixture of honey, nuts, and spices.

* Medieval Era: During this period, sugar became more accessible, leading to the development of sugar-based frostings. These early frostings were often thick and heavy, more like a glaze than the smooth icings we see today.

* 17th and 18th Centuries: Cake decorating techniques began to evolve, with the introduction of royal icing and buttercream. These frostings were smoother and more versatile, allowing for intricate designs and decorations.

* 19th Century: The invention of the first electric mixer in 1885 revolutionized cake decorating. This innovation made it easier to create light and airy frostings.

So, while we can't pinpoint an exact date, it's safe to say that icing has been used to decorate cakes for at least centuries, with its development and evolution mirroring the changing availability of ingredients and technological advancements.