Buttercream has to be one of the most versatile decorating mediums around. You can spread it, and pipe it, model it, paint it, and of course, make stripes!

One of my favourite techniques is Buttercream Stripes. There are so many different design options, and of course, you don’t even have to make stripes, you can use this technique to create any stencilled effect in any shape you can think of! And the good news? Is easier than you think!

The key to using parchment as a stencil, is to apply it to your cake BEFORE it crusts so it holds still, and REMOVE it before it crusts.  You can refrigerate if you need to, but don’t let the cake dry out, or both you and your Buttercream will crack!

You will need:

• A smooth iced Buttercream cake, not yet crusted.
• Evenly cut strips of parchment/baking paper
• A flexible scraper (left over cake box is perfect!)
• Any tools you may want to use to texture, such as a silicone basting brush

Step 1

Apply a strip of parchment to your cake (for best results, attach before the Buttercream has crusted). Continue to attach strips around your cake, equal distances apart.  The final strip may have to break the rules a little and split the difference! Refrigerate until the Buttercream has firmed up.

Step 2

Using a piece of cake box, or flexible smoothers, apply a stripe of Buttercream to your cake, moving from the bottom up. Don’t worry if some buttercream sticks up above the cake line, it can be easily trimmed when chilled.

Step 3

Using a pastry brush, or food only paint brush (here I’m using a silicone basting brush), brush the Buttercream gently in one direction. If you accidentally pull up some buttercream, just gently brush in the other direction to smooth it down. Move onto step 4 before chilling the cake, or allowing it to crust.

Step 4

Using a steady motion, carefully peel the parchment strips off in a downward motion. Refrigerate until ready to attach flowers or decorate further.

So Cool!

Ok, so its a little time consuming, but the effect is worth it. Ita also great for sprinkle stripes, and even abstract geometric patterns if you’re feeling adventurous! Just remember to attach the strips and remove them BEFORE the buttercream crusts, and the sky is the limit!

Viva La Buttercream x