When we were asked to review Step by Step Cake Decorating by Karen Sullivan we jumped at the chance. As professional bakers and cake decorators we have amassed an impressive collection of cooking and baking books.
In order to review Step-by-Step Cake Decorating we decided to be hands on and re-create a playful and seasonal cake from within the book… the fun jack o’ lantern! We put our own spin on this cake and added candy corn (a bit of an addiction in the Juniper Cakery office) which we made using strips of coloured sugarpaste / fondant. We also decorated our cake board with wood effect painted fondant. The pumpkin cake itself was created by following the book’s instructions step by step.
Step by Step Cake Decorating by Karen Sullivan is a great beginners guide where novices will find an array of cakes to re-create. The instructions for this fun, ‘fangtastic’ cake were clear and concise and prove to be a prime example of how accessible other tutorials are in the book. Whilst the tutorial is simple and straightforward you’ll still be eased into learning some handy terminology throughout. There are a good few pages dedicated to introducing the decorator to a selection of tools and equipment with explanations of use where needed. These tools range from basics such as scrapers and turntables to specialist items such as airbrushing machines and florist tape. The difference between a cake drum and cake board is also discussed as are other basics such as how to fill and cover a layer cake.
Step-by-Step Cake Decorating by Karen Sullivan, published by DK, £16.99 at dk.com
For advanced cake decorators this will still become a reference book where quick ideas, tips and tricks of the trade are at the ready as we all have our ‘designer’s block’ days. Though the jack o’ lantern cake is one of our personal favourites, and a fitting choice for this time of year, there are still plenty of projects to take you though winter, spring and summer too! There are also great ideas for children’s birthdays including, but certainly not limited to, a pirate ship, dinosaur and a train.
Step-by-Step Cake Decorating by Karen Sullivan is a book filled with fun and vibrant projects. This book a great introduction to those eager to begin learning the craft and the book even includes and a collection of basic cake, icing and buttercream recipes ready for you to get creating!
If you’d love to get your hands on a copy of Step-by-Step Cake Decorating by Karen Sullivan why not try your luck at entering our giveaway! We have two copies ready to send out to two lucky winners. All you need to do is comment on this post! Entrants must reside in the UK and have their comment submitted by November 1st. The two lucky winners will be chosen at random and will be announced via our blog and social channels (Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram) on November 4th. Good luck!
