Frosting Fake Wedding Cakes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Creating a fake wedding cake is a fun and forgiving project, as you can simply scrape off the frosting and start again if you make a mistake. To frost a fake wedding cake, you'll need lightweight spackle, which you can leave white or mix with acrylic paint to achieve your desired colour. Spread the spackle evenly over your cake form, mimicking the texture and thickness of real cake icing. You can create a smooth or textured finish, using the edge of a spatula to create swirls or peaks in the spackle before it dries.

How to get a realistic look

To get a realistic look, use lightweight spackle to "frost" a thin layer on a base (this can be a box or styrofoam). Apply it in a thickness that mimics the icing on a real cake. You can create a smooth or textured finish depending on the effect you want. To mimic the texture of icing, use the edge of your spatula to create swirls or peaks in the spackle before it dries. You can also use a putty knife or a spatula to apply spackle to the top surface of the base. Spread it in a thick, uneven layer to mimic the texture of cake icing.

For a white frosting look, use plain spackle. Alternatively, mix lightweight spackle (about 3/4 cup) with a squirt of acrylic paint to change the colour. Mix the paint in a cup or on a disposable plate with a popsicle stick or baking spatula until the colour is uniform. You can also use the spackle in a piping bag with a piping tip to add "frosting" details.

How to create swirls and peaks

To create swirls and peaks, use the edge of a spatula to create the desired effect in the spackle before it dries. This will add realism and character to your fake cake. You can also use a putty knife to apply the spackle to the top surface of the cake. Spread it in a thick, uneven layer to mimic the texture of cake icing.

If you want to add more intricate details, use the spackle in a piping bag with a piping tip. This will allow you to add "frosting" details and create a more realistic look.

Remember, the process of frosting a fake wedding cake is forgiving. If you don't like how it turns out, you can always scrape off the frosting and start again.

How to use a piping bag

To frost a fake wedding cake, you can use lightweight spackle to create a base of frosting on a box or styrofoam. You can also use wood jewellery boxes, paper mâché boxes, or styrofoam. Spread the spackle evenly over your cake form, applying it in a thickness that mimics the icing on a real cake. You can create smooth or textured finishes depending on the effect you want. To create a textured finish, use the edge of your spatula to create swirls or peaks in the spackle before it dries. You can also use a piping bag to add "frosting" details.

To use a piping bag, first, choose a bag. Piping bags come in many different sizes, quantities, and materials ranging from polyester to plastic. The size and bag you choose depends on what you’re using it for. The largest-sized piping bag is the 18-inch bag, which holds a large amount of frosting, making it perfect for frosting large surface areas on cakes, or a whole batch of cupcakes.

Next, fill the bag. Hold the piping bag toward the top (at the twist) with your dominant hand — not at the bottom. If this feels awkward, try filling the bag with less filling for more control. Use your opposite hand to help guide the bag and hold it steady as you pipe. Get ready to pipe!

Once the filling has been added, push all of the filling towards the tip of the bag and twist it where the filling starts. This helps the top of the bag stay closed (preventing spills) and keeps the pressure needed to pipe out the filling. Gently "burp" the filled bag by applying a small amount of pressure to push out any air bubbles before getting started. Do this over a spare mixing bowl or the bowl of remaining filling.

How to get a smooth finish

To get a smooth finish when frosting a fake wedding cake, use lightweight spackle to "frost" a thin layer on a base (this can be a box or styrofoam). You can use a putty knife or a spatula to apply the spackle to the top surface of the base. Spread the spackle evenly and smoothly over the cake form, applying it in a thickness that mimics the icing on a real cake. You can also use the edge of your spatula to create swirls or peaks in the spackle before it dries to add texture and character to your cake. If you want a very smooth finish, you can sand the cake after everything is dry.

How to choose the right base

When it comes to choosing the right base for your fake wedding cake, there are a few options to consider. You can use wood jewellery boxes, paper mâché boxes, styrofoam or cardboard. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Wood jewellery boxes can be a great option if you want your fake wedding cake to also serve as functional storage. They provide a sturdy base and can be easily decorated to match your wedding theme. However, they may be more expensive and difficult to find in the desired shape and size.

Paper mâché boxes are another popular choice for fake wedding cakes. They are lightweight and easy to work with, making them ideal for creating unique shapes and designs. Additionally, paper mâché boxes can be painted or decorated to match any colour scheme. On the downside, they may not be as durable as other materials and can be more prone to damage if not handled carefully.

Styrofoam is a common choice for fake wedding cakes as it is inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to cut and shape. It can be found in various thicknesses and sizes, making it versatile for different cake designs. However, styrofoam may not be as durable as other materials and can be more difficult to paint or decorate.

Cardboard is another affordable and readily available option for creating a fake wedding cake base. It is easy to cut and shape, making it ideal for beginners. Cardboard can also be painted or decorated to match your desired colour scheme. However, it may not be as sturdy as other materials and can be more prone to bending or warping if not properly supported.

Ultimately, the best base for your fake wedding cake will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the size, shape, and design of your desired cake, as well as your budget and the level of durability and functionality you require. By choosing the right base, you can create a stunning and realistic fake wedding cake that will impress your guests.

Frequently asked questions