News

Make Realistic Designs on Desserts with 3 Helpful Tips

Eager to make a cake with a perfect heart shape? Or flag cookies to celebrate? Use these tips to make perfect designs every time.

Whether you are replicating a flag, a shape, or a beloved character on your cakes and cookies, these tips will guide you to delightful results with your desserts.

1. Create Parchment Paper Stencils

Parchment paper can be your best friend when adding designs to desserts, especially if you know how to use it. For this tip, print a picture of the design you want to use. Then lay a piece of parchment paper over it and trace the design. For a simple shape, you can easily trace the outline. But for a design with multiple elements, trace an outline of each part on a different piece of parchment paper to build your design in layers. Now, cut out the outlines and use these as stencils. Press a parchment paper stencil firmly onto your cake or other dessert. Then, apply icing over the stencil and flatten it with an offset spatula. Be sure to cake on the icing so it fills in the outline. Peel the parchment paper away to reveal your perfect design! If you’re working with multiple stencils, start with the base shape and move through the layers. In between each layer, freeze your dessert for 15 minutes so the icing hardens.

2. Freeze Your Designs

Just as in the method above, you should print out a picture of the design you want to use and trace that onto parchment paper. But Instead of cutting it out, you can flip the design over and create your edible design right on the back of the parchment paper. For this method, you would use a piping bag to pipe the design onto the parchment paper, tracing as you go. Then you would put this in the freezer for at least 15 minutes to harden. After, you should be able to peel off the design. To place it onto your dessert, simply apply a fresh layer of icing to stick the hardened design onto. Then freeze again so everything stays together.

3. Copy from the Corner

A final way to recreate a design from a printed picture, which requires the most skill, is to try to copy it onto your dessert. To do this, keep your printed picture in sight and use a piping bag to carefully copy it onto your dessert. This method may work better for cookies while the first method works better for cakes. To match your design, start by copying one corner of the picture and then continue working your way around. To do this with confidence, you can practice piping your copy of the design onto parchment paper first before trying it out on your dessert.

Remember to be patient with decorating and use tools that work for you! Instead of a piping bag, you can always scoop icing with a spoon and spread it out with a butter knife to make a design too :) Make your tools work for you, and have fun!

 

Celebrate the stars and stripes with our

glittery Star Cookie Kit by Duff!

Find more cool kits here!

Frequently asked questions

What comes in a Baketivity baking kit?

Each Baketivity baking kit includes pre-measured dry ingredients, easy step-by-step instructions, and fun educational activities designed for kids. Our recipes are created to help children learn real kitchen skills while baking something delicious with their family.

Do I need to buy additional ingredients?

You may only need to add a few fresh ingredients like eggs, butter, or milk, depending on the recipe. Most of the dry ingredients come pre-measured in the kit, making baking simple, convenient, and mess-free for kids.

What equipment do I need to use the baking kits?

Most families already have everything they need at home. Typically you'll need mixing bowls, a whisk, fork or spoon, measuring cups, and a lined baking pan. Some recipes may also require a microwave-safe bowl or oven.

What age are Baketivity baking kits best for?

Baketivity baking kits are designed for kids ages 4–16. Younger children may need a little help from a parent, while older kids can follow the instructions more independently and build confidence in the kitchen.

Do your baking kits contain nuts?

Nuts are not directly included in the recipes or ingredient lists. However, some components may be produced in facilities that also process nuts, sesame seeds, soy, and gluten, so trace amounts may be present.

Are Baketivity baking kits kosher?

Yes! All ingredients included in Baketivity baking kits are OU-certified kosher, and our facility is FDA-approved, so families can bake and enjoy their treats with confidence.

My ingredients feel hard or clumpy. Is that normal?

Yes! Our ingredients are vacuum-packed to keep them fresh, which can sometimes make them feel firm or clumpy. Simply open the bag and give it a shake, and the ingredients will loosen up and be ready to use.

You might also like

Holiday Baking Traditions & Timeless Family Recipes

Holiday Baking Traditions & Timeless Family Recipes

Discover the heartwarming history behind holiday baking traditions. Learn how to keep family recipes alive, explore global festive treats, and create lasting memories in the kitchen this season.

View more
Holiday Cooking Challenges for Kids: Tips for Stress-Free Fun

Holiday Cooking Challenges for Kids: Tips for Stress-Free Fun

Cooking with kids during the holidays doesn't have to be stressful! Discover actionable tips to manage the mess, overcome kitchen challenges, and create joyful, fun-filled family memories.  

View more
20 Creative Homemade Christmas Gifts Kids Can Make

20 Creative Homemade Christmas Gifts Kids Can Make

Spread holiday cheer with 20 easy, budget-friendly homemade Christmas gifts kids can craft and bake themselves.

View more
Festive Holiday Cookie Exchange Ideas, Tips & Themes

Festive Holiday Cookie Exchange Ideas, Tips & Themes

Host the ultimate festive gathering this year! Discover creative recipes, planning tips, and fun themes to make your holiday cookie exchange a sweet and memorable success for everyone.  

View more
15 Irresistible No-Bake Christmas Desserts

15 Irresistible No-Bake Christmas Desserts

Skip the oven this year! Discover 15 quick, easy, and festive no-bake Christmas desserts that will save you time and keep the kitchen stress-free.

View more
Festive Drinks for Kids: Fun & Easy Holiday Recipes

Festive Drinks for Kids: Fun & Easy Holiday Recipes

Make the holidays magical for your little ones! Discover fun, colorful, and easy festive drinks for kids, from creamy hot cocoa to sparkling holiday mocktails.  

View more