I always wanted to learn how to make a naked cake they always look so beautiful and natural and delicious. This is such a beautiful cake decorating trend right now.
The first thing you’re going to need to do is bake the cake! This type of design is best with as many layers as possible. I started with two layers so I can get a feel for it. This method worked great on my Green Tomato Cake with Amazing Cream Cheese Icing . You will probably need to double the icing recipe, depending on how many layers you choose to make the cake.
Before you begin icing, put wax paper onto the edges of your cake stand or the platter you would like to use for displaying the cake. This way you can just pull the wax paper pieces out quickly at the end and the plate will stay clean. Easy!
Start with using an ice cream scooper, and scoop balls of icing right right on top of the first layer. Just start laying it on thick to end up with approximately an inch thick layer of icing. Spread icing to hang over the edges a bit. You will scrape the excess off at the end to get the naked cake effect we are looking for.
Once you get your first layer of icing down you’re going to add the next cake layer. If you’re going to make two layer cake, flip the second layer over so that the bottom of the cake is actually on top. You want the top completely flat. (If you’re adding more than 2 layers, it is best to cut a little off a little layer of each with a long serrated bread knife so that they are completely flat.)
Top your second layer with scoops full of the icing and spread it out like you did for the first layer creating an inch thick layer of icing. Repeat this step for any other layers you are adding.
Once you get all the icing on the top, you going to go ahead and take some icing on your spatula and fill the edges to make sure any gaps are filled. Next, scrape along the side to create that naked cake look. This is very it’s going to look very organic so there’s no right or wrong way. If you feel like you’ve added too much icing, just scrape some off, and if you need more go ahead and slap some more on! Work with the icing until the edges are completely flush with the cake.
When you are finished icing the cake, I suggest sprinkling it with a little bit of turbinado sugar or powdered sugar or maybe a little cocoa or cinnamon. This will just to give it a little extra color and finishing touch and is especially effective on white icing.
The last step is to garnish your cake with some beautiful flowers or fruit. I chose to pick some herbs from my garden for a garnish. I used sage, mint, rosemary and extra small green green tomatoes. It really added a unique feel to this rustic cake.
I had a fun time trying this. Just remember you can always just eat it and try again! I think next time I’ll tackle more layers by adding 4. It it makes a great visual impact. Try this method with my Green Tomato Cake with Amazing Cream Cheese Icing. You won’t regret it!
Pro Tip: Run your spatula under hot water throughout the process. It helps to smooth out the top of the cake and sides. You don’t want the spatula to be soaked, but it does help to keep a light sprinkle of water on it. You could keep even keep a cup of hot water next to you to dip your spatula in as you work.
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