Archive made 3/30/98
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PRICING CAKES:

Author: Amy
    Subject: pricing sculpted cakes
    Date: Sun Mar 29 14:40:26 1998
    Message:
    How do you price your sculpted cakes, especially if you haven't done that design before? I had an order for a    car theme. She said a car theme or in the shape of a car, what ever I wanted. I didn't know what I was going to    do. I knew I wanted to try a sculpted cake but I wasn't going to promise her one. I ended up sculpting a car    following Dolores' directions. I quoted her the price of $20, my base price. The car turned out so great, I    impressed myself. I smoothed the curves with a small wet paintbrush and even made a royal icing blacktop    with grass and tiny flowers on each side. It was worth more than $20, but I'm not sure how much. I'm also   afraid next time she will expect more than what I charge her for. Any advice?    Thanks,    Amy

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: pricing sculpted cakes
    Date: Mon Mar 30 08:44:28 1998
    Message:
    You really have to make up prices. Usually people expect to pay more for something like this...AND a lot of    this depends on how you 'put it'! I let them know right off they are getting a very 'special' cake so they expect a    higher price. You must sell yourself sometimes and let them know you do special work...at a premium.
    I made a sculptured 'pig' once. I think I got $50.00 for it. Was fun.
    Roland Winbeckler gets $5,000.00 for his lifesized sculpture cakes...and they pay his accomodations, air fare    etc too.

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: sculptured cakes
    Date: Mon Mar 30 09:56:31 1998
    Message:
    I would say that was worth $25-30. I think it's a good idea not to charge extra when you're trying a new
    technique, since you're not sure how it will come out. I make sure when they pick up the cake that I point out
    the extra work and explain that normally it would be "X" amount extra, but that I didn't charge them because it
    was new, and they may not have asked for it. That way, they won't be suprised when you charge more the next
    time.

Author: Debi
    Subject: Easter "Sugar" Eggs
    Date: Fri Mar 27 17:37:26 1998
    Message:
    What would the going price for a basic sugar egg. Like Wilton's kits look like. And then for the one Delores    had in her newsletter?
    Thanks in advance. I am making them for show but need a guess price to quote if asked.    Debi

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Easter "Sugar" Eggs
    Date: Sat Mar 28 11:29:56 1998
    Message:
    (Fancy eggs...in S. Ohio)
    small $5.00
    medium $7.50
    large $10.00
    But most people charge more than this. I figure that if I stay cheap I'll get the custom going again around here.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Re: Easter "Sugar" Eggs
    Date: Sat Mar 28 22:18:08 1998
    Message:
    that's the prices i have been getting for almost 10 yrs now.    lynne

Author: Judy
    Subject: Pricing summer coating mints
    Date: Thu Mar 26 12:06:18 1998
    Message:
    I have been asked to make mints for an up coming wedding. The mints will be made in those 1 inch rose candy    molds that you get from Dolores or other suppliers.
    I can buy the coating for about $4 per pound. I figure I will charge about $8 to $10 per pound. My question is:
    ABout how many mints should I get from each pound of coating? The customer wants to know about how   many mints they will get. I will only fill the molds even with the top of the mold using squeeze bottles to fill.    Any help appreciated.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Pricing summer coating mints
    Date: Fri Mar 27 09:30:32 1998
    Message:
    Isn't that pretty expensive for the chocolate? Ours is only $2.45 per pound for reg. white, milk or dark or   pastel colors (Merckens brand)
    To determine how many you'll get per lb... From 1 cup water, pour water in the mold cavities - full, count   how many you got from this 1 cup water....1 cup water equals 1/2 lb chocolate. IF you don't overfill the   chocolate or eat one
    We charge $7.50 per lb for 1 color or $10.00 per lb for 2 colors...or $12.00 per lb for 3 colors. But your
    chocolate cost almost double what ours does.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Re: Pricing summer coating mints
    Date: Sat Mar 28 18:59:55 1998
    Message:
    your chocolate sure is cheaper than around here. i pay $2.99 per full 16 ozs. that's at one supply shop. at  michael's or other simmular shops they are getting $3.49 per 14 oz (?).....i know it is *not* a full #.
    lynne

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Re: Pricing summer coating mints
    Date: Mon Mar 30 08:39:48 1998
    Message:
    At Michaels they will only have that waxy Wilton stuff too! (Right, its just 10 oz! - makes them think it is  cheaper i suppose, this way) Ours is Merckens...the only brand the good cany makers here will use.

Author: Amy
    Subject: cream cheese mints
    Date: Mon Mar 23 23:49:23 1998
    Message:
    If I charge ingredients X 3 for cream cheese mints that I mold individually, I would get $4.50 for 121 mints(I    didn't figure in flavoring, which is so little) This doesn't seem like much for all that molding. How much do   you all charge? Also, how do you package them if not for a wedding.   Thank you,   Amy

Author: Carolyn
    Subject: Mints
    Date: Tue Mar 24 23:44:01 1998
    Message:
    I make cream cheese mints. I charge 10 cents each for molded ones or 6 cents each for the cut ones. I do most    of mine by cutting. I have the small aspic or canape type cutters and roll the mint dough out like pie dough and    cut them. So much faster. I usually use the heart shaped cutter especially for weddings. I can get between 300    and 400 done per hour and I can usually plan on at least 400-500 mints per 8 oz. box of cream cheese mixture.
    I plan on 2 mints per person unless they want more. I put them in a sheet cake box on saran wrap. I think it    depends where you are. Someone told me recently they had been to a bridal fair in the city just 30 miles from    me and 2 booths at the bridal fair were charging $30 per 100 molded mints - that's 30 cents per mint!!! I can't   believe anyone would pay that much!!

Author: kellyann
    Subject: mints
    Date: Wed Mar 25 09:30:58 1998
    Message:
    Amy,    From the information I've read, $15.00 per 100 mints seems to be the going rate.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: cream cheese mints
    Date: Wed Mar 25 12:30:04 1998
    Message:
    Here we charge the same as kellyann. $15.00 per tray...a tray being Wilton's Show 'n Serve 12" cardboard. It    holds about 100 or a few more, depending on the shapes.
    But I sure like Carolyn's way better! I could go for 300 per hour fine.
    One thing, we only dip the top of each mint in gran sugar then they stay in place real pretty on the tray. (I have   a picture on my RECIPES / Icing Recipes page).

Author: Debbie
    Subject: Groom's cake-price
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:48:54 1998
    Message:
    How much would you charge for a double layer 14" round with basket weaving and crystalized fruit on top?
    Thanks!

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Groom's cake-price
    Date: Mon Mar 23 20:00:14 1998
    Message:
    debbie; my price for that would be $1.50 a serving. don't have a serving chart here, but i believe it is about 75
    on a 14" tier.    lynne

Author: Sonya
    Subject: For profit?
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:01:24 1998
    Message:
    I have the oppurtunity to make b-day cakes for a local party place that could mean as many as 6/7 cakes a
    week.    I was very excited and being new to cake decorating, I have turned my kitchen upside down practicing. My
    husband who is very supportive of all my ventures, began to start figuring time, supplies, etc and realized I
    will only be making about $6 per cake. How do I justify?? Is there a place where it is worth it finicially??
    I really love the decorating, it is very theraputic to have a cake as a blank canvas, but it kind of takes the wind
    out when you realize you are making about $1.60 an hour. thanks for any input and encouragement. SONYA

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: For profit?
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:04:08 1998
    Message:
       I think it is wonderful that someone wants you to do their cakes. I would count myself lucky. It does take much
    more time at first than after you get more familiar. I probably averaged about 25 cents per hour when I first
    started. But this is okay, you are leaning by doing. Take your time.
       If we get $15.00 for a 1-mix sheet cake, we have 3-4.00 in it. Charge extra if it will take you longer than an
    average cake...what we do.
       Do let us know after you've been doing this awhile...its getting your foot in the door!

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: Re: For profit?
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:06:55 1998
    Message:
       A general rule of thumb is to charge thee times what all your ingredients and consumable supplies (boards,
    boxes, etc) cost you. This gives enough to cover utilities, your labor, and initial investment of equipment and
    pans. Of course, in the beginning you're slow and don't make much per hour, but after awhile you pick up your
    pace. I figure I make $1.50-$2/hr, not counting the time cleaning up and planning. It's not much, but it's about
    the same as if I worked part-time outside and had to pay for day care, and I still get to spend all day with my
    child. Also consider the exposure you may be getting by providing cakes to this place. If they're getting a good
    deal on the price, make sure dispaying your flyer or business cards is part of the deal, so you're getting some
    free advertising to make up for the lower price. I have a deal like this with an office. They bought cakes from
    me for their Christmas party and liked them so asked me about providing all the cakes for their employees
    birthdays and other events that might come up. I gave them a break on the price, and deliver, since it is good
    exposure for me. Also, they leave it all up to me, which can be nice, too. If I'm busy then I do a simple design,
    but it's a good opportunity to experiment a little.

Author: Crystal
    Subject: For Profit:
    Date: Tue Mar 24 16:37:17 1998
    Message:
       Congrats on getting your foot in the door.....
       As a rule I don't add in what the cost of time for mixing and baking....If I did that I would be so depressed I
    would have quite years ago....I get $25 for a basic cake very simple....The cost is on the rise if they want to a
    more elaborate cake.....Once your name gets out and your talent is shown people are willing to pay.....I figure
    $ 5 for cost of mixes and sugar and box....on an average...sometimes alittle more sometimes less....Now
    average time to decorate a basic cake is 30 minutes or less....So that is $20 bucks a half hour....Don't start
    picking your pricing apart in the beginning...You will go nuts...The best of luck....

Author: Zara
    Subject: Profit
    Date: Sat Mar 28 02:00:47 1998
    Message:
    What type of cake are you selling to them sheet cakes or shaped cakes?

Author: sonya
    Subject: shape
    Date: Sun Mar 29 15:18:15 1998
    Message:
    Zara, all they want is a simple 11x13 sheet cake to offer with their party package. The party place is trying to
    keep its cost down. what do you think??

Author: Kellyann
    Subject: cookie bouquets
    Date: Sun Mar 22 11:14:46 1998
    Message:
       Recently I've been asked from several customers if I could create cookie bouquets for those occasions where
    a cake would just be too much - i.e. single persons birthday, something for a new mother, thank you for..., etc.
    Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get started? How much to charge? What should I put them in? I
    could use any and all the help. Thanks so much!

Author: Millie
    Subject: Cookie bouquets
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:02:00 1998
    Message:
       I saw something similar to this in a catalog.
       The cookies were round (probably sugar cookies) on a long cookie
    stick and wrapped in colored cellophane (just the cookie, not the
    stick).
       All 6 cookies were then packaged like a flower bouquet with
    tissue paper.
       Don't know what you would charge (depends on your costs) the catalog
    charged something like 24.99 plus shipping.    Hope this helps.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: cookie bouquets
    Date: Sun Mar 22 17:16:24 1998
    Message:
       there is a shop in my town that does this....that's all they do! that is except sell the cookies by the dz, too.
       unfortunately, i don't know what they are charging and right now i have no way of getting over there to find out
       maybe in a few days i can get by there and let you know. i'm told they do a *fantastic* business, especially
    w/local offices/businesses in town.    lynne

Author: sonya
    Subject: cookies
    Date: Mon Mar 23 00:41:09 1998
    Message:
       kellyann, I have been doing cookie boquets for about a year now. I started last Easter. I offered to do
    centerpieces for a function at my church. I had seen a demo on a craft show and thought I would try it. I never
    new it would launch such a business for me. People began asking if I would make one for this or that. I have
    never advertised and I can honestly say I have gotten orders from every one I have delivered. If I send one to
    a Dr. office for someone, someone that works there will probably order one for someone else. They are a
    great alternative to flowers. Another great market is childrens b-day parties. I have sold several, Parents use
    as centerpeice and then give a way cookies as party favors. kids love them. There is a place called the cookie
    bouquet and it can be found on the internet. They charge $7.00 per cookie plus shipping and handling. Living
    in a small comunity there is no way I could charge that much. I usually charge about $2.00 - $3.00 a cookie
    with the average being about $25 for a dozen. It really depends on whether I have a cutter or if I have to free
    hand the cookie and also on how many different color icings I use. Right now I put my bouquets in flower pots
    or in recycled formula cans which I paint to match the theme of the bouquet. I learn new tricks everyday so if
    you are interested, just email me at blhall@seark.net and I will try to help you any I can. This is a fun way to
    be creative becuase some will tell you to do whatever you like and I have really done some crazy things. My
    favorite was one I did of real organs (liver, heart, kidneys, etc) for a girl who had her gallbladder taken out,
    On the card we put "be thankful for what you have left." That one got me several orders because everyone at
    the hospital was talking about it!! have fun, Sonya

Author: kellyann
    Subject: cookies
    Date: Thu Mar 26 09:56:44 1998
    Message:
    Sonya,
    This cookie idea sounds like alot of fun! I would love to try it but, I do have a few questions. Could you help?
    I'm wondering what type of flower pot? - I love your can idea.
    Do I have to put something in the pot such as foam in order to keep the cookies upright?
    You charge 2-3 per cookie - what size is that for?
    Flavors?
    Do you put a dowel or something in them / before or after baking?
    Do you decorate them with icing or wrap them in those festive bags?
    I've seen some bouquets with balloons, stuffed animals, tissue paper etc. Do you ever use any of these?
    Gosh, I had more questions than I thought. They just keep coming. Any help is always appreciated!
    Thanks so much!

Author: Beth
    Subject: pricing list by Beth Russell
    Date: Sun Mar 22 11:05:57 1998
    Message:
    After putting this off for awhile I think it is time I made my pricing list. You know, no more discounted cakes
    for    your co-workers , friends etc, it's time to have it down in black and white. I was wondering if you all could
    give    me a little help on my pricing, or atleast give me some ideas on what the going rates are. I do character cakes,
    sheet cakes, specialty cakes, candy molds and specialty cookie bouquets. I have a pretty good idea on the
    cakes,    however I'm stuck on the candies and cookies. I also would like to know if I'm in the right price range. Thanks
    to    all,    Also I would like to say thanks about all the advice on the character cakes, I had no idea selling licensed
    character cakes was illegal, I guess those will just have to be "donations" to help get the word out.

Author: Mike
    Subject: Re: pricing list
    Date: Sun Mar 22 11:07:58 1998
    Message:
    Hi Beth.
    I do specialty cakes or tarts for restraunts. They are mostly 6 and 7 layer cakes that because of labour and
    time    the restaunts wouldn't make themselves. I live in Canada so pricing is different. My cakes cost me around 16
    to    18 Can.$ to make and I have no problem selling them at 36.00 to 42.00. I hope this helps. Keep me Posted.
    Mike

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: pricing list by Beth Russell
    Date: Sun Mar 22 11:09:57 1998
    Message:
    >co-workers , friends:I still DO discount cakes to family and close friends...the key is 'discount' not 'free' - I
    allow a larger discount depending on how close they are to me...or 'paybacks' for what they've done for me
    etc. This  really helps illiminate feeling cheated. See, if your niece chooses a 400 serving cake and you have discounted
    it    20% you still make money. OR - you could say...you'd discount it the price of a gift in dollar amount. Thats
    safe    too. she pays the rest.
       For wedding cakes, I have a label attached to each pict. to say what servings and the price of that cake.
    Listingextras if nec.
       In my area it is safe to start with $12.00 per mix, lengthy techniques being extra (fig. piping etc). We charge
    $42.50 for a full sheet cake (4-cake mixes).
    > character cakes - take a long time...I'd start with about $15.00 in my area. Some take longer and cost more.
    > candy molds - we charge 3 times what it cost to make. Or $7.50-$8.00 per pound for filled candies.
    > cookies - a 'service' I don't feel I can really charge enough to make it worthwhile though we do them. I don't
    know exactly what we charge for cookies...not my dept.
    > "donations" to help get the word out - don't think this will make it legal...thats been thought of too and it is
    full of holes in court. Bottom line, you don't infringe on someone else's copyrights like you don't break the law
    in otherareas...just because it isn't ethical.

Author: Debbie
    Subject: Pricing - Doll Cake
    Date: Sun Mar 22 10:55:56 1998
    Message:
    How much should I charge for a doll cake similiar to or the same as the one on Dolores web site?

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Pricing - Doll Cake
    Date: Sun Mar 22 11:01:05 1998
    Message:
    I charge $25.00 for it.
    Get what the market will allow where you live. High-cost-of-living areas MUST charge more...re: NY, NJ,
    MD  are high cost areas. Southern OH where I am is a low-cost area.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Re: Pricing - Doll Cake
    Date: Sun Mar 22 17:23:42 1998
    Message:
       dee;; glad to see i'm right up there in the right price range :)
       this prolly has already been covered but i don't remember:
    i have a customer who wants this doll cake w/barbie. it *must* be barbie (the doll part). i told her i'd do the
    cake part if she supplies the doll and charge only $20. is that legal?    lynne

Author: Debbie
    Subject: lynne-re doll cake
    Date: Mon Mar 23 00:51:45 1998
    Message:
       Lynne , I too will be very interested in the answer to your question. You see a coworker asked me what I
    would charge for a "barbie cake". Well, I politely explained I why I couldn't do a barbie cake ie illegal
    $10,000 fine , etc.
       I thought she was talking about a cake like the Wilton Barbie (that lays flat). Then as she was leaving she
    made a comment and I realized she meant the doll cake. So I told her that I could do that. Lesson learned-make
    sure you understand exactly what your customer wants before you
    say you won't do their cake! We discussed the doll and she did not say it had to be a barbie but now I'm
    wondering if I need to clarify this! Thanks!

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: lynne-re doll cake
    Date: Mon Mar 23 20:09:42 1998
    Message:
    debbie; that's the exact conversation i had w/this customer (via phone) :)
    i think we are getting off subject on this, but i have a further?? on what is legal.
    when little mermaid first came out wilton made plastic? figures. i have a couple of those on hand. is it legal to
    use them on a cake. i did this for a close friend, but just in case someone else asks i want to know. since
    wilton seems to limit the use of other more recent things, i;m not sure on this one.    lynne

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Re: Re: Pricing - Doll Cake
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:26:47 1998
    Message:
      Sure, that would be legal. See, you aren't reproducing a Barbie this way. Same thing with other opyrighted
    characters. We use the PVC figures like Disney sells all the time, in sceneries. This is all we can do besides
    using Edible Images. Kids like the toys to play with anyway.

Author: Amy
    Subject: $$ sheet cakes vs. round tiers
    Date: Sat Mar 21 17:20:03 1998
    Message:
    I'm making my price list for my first wedding cake consultation. What if they want sheet cakes because they
    might be cheaper. Do you all price them the same as the traditional round tiers?     Thank you,

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: $$ sheet cakes vs. round tiers
    Date: Sat Mar 21 18:53:08 1998
    Message:
       hi amy; what i offer is an *undecorated* sheet cake. i price it under what i would charge for a decorated one.
    example: 1/2 sheet (35 servings) - decorated is $25; *undecroated* is $18. what they get is a 2" high cake
    w/filling that is iced and bordered but no decorations of any kind.
       i never put that on my price lists. i don't want people knowing it is available unless they ask or if they need
    200 servings and what they picked out only serves 181 then i mention they can fill in w/it. if you have it listed
    people will always think they can order a cake that serves say 100 when they have over 200 guests so they
    want 5 sheets :( it's almost as much work to do that and you don't make anything on it.
    enough of them ask that i know it is general knowledge. recently i had a call from someone who wanted a *3*
    tier cake to serve only about 25 people *for pictures* and then they were going to have friends make sheets to
    serve :(     i'm insterested in finding out w/others do, too.    lynne

Author: Carolyn
    Subject: Sheet Cakes vs. Round
    Date: Tue Mar 24 23:55:45 1998
    Message:
       When it is for a wedding, I charge the same price - $1.50 per serving. I tell them I put a rosebud on each piece
    and therefore it is as much decorating, etc. as another tier would be. When they hear that, they elect to go for
    the extra tiers usually. I just did 4 big 12 x 18 sheet cakes to serve 200 and then 2 more sheet cakes to serve
    another 50 for the Dr. to take home. These went to a hotel and were for a Dr's. 70th birthday where they had a
    big dinner, etc. When I quoted the price, I decided to ge the same price as if it were a wedding cake and
    would you believe, they thought it was "cheap"??? I wished I had charged more then!! However, this was in
    the city and I can't get those prices out here in the country!!

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: $$ sheet cakes vs. round tiers
    Date: Sun Mar 22 10:51:51 1998
    Message:
       Usually I charge the same for the sheet cake as I would if it had been made for a BD cake etc. But if they
    wanted it decorated LIKE the wedding cake, then it would cost them the same per serving as the wedding
    cake.
       I try to get them to have a supplement cake ROUND (as the wedding cake) and decorated the same. I've seen
    people shun sheet cake and not come up until the tiered cake is served. It just isn't the same taste....at least
    'they' think so. They can't tell the dif. if its the same shape.
       Then, you could call the supplement cake a 'groom's cake.

Author: Mike Mccarty
    Subject: pricing
    Date: Tue Mar 17 21:32:33 1998
    Message:
    Most of my cakes I sell to restraunts run between 32.00 and 36.00 Canadian. I add 100% to 150% to the cost
    of of the cake, cake box, and cake plate. For cheesecake I add 60% to the cost. I have six cakes, all five to
    seven layers and seven cheesecakes with eight toppings that are sold seperatly so the restraunt can mix and
    match. I do get myself in trouble sometimes. I was asked to supply a cake for a party at a resraunt. The cake
    must serve sixty. I don't like to get into this type of baking as it will be just a slab cake frosted with royle
    frosting and not to exciting. Time snuck up on me now I'm running around tring to finish my pricing for the
    morning. Mike

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"EQUIPMENT, BOOKS AND PUBLICATIONS"
Author: Caesanea
    Subject: Oven
    Date: Thu Mar 26 12:43:45 1998
    Message:
    ISO-Which oven do you prefer for baking cakes successfully, Gas, Electric, or Convection?

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Oven
    Date: Thu Mar 26 20:36:15 1998
    Message:
       We recently bought a new electric (convection) oven for our shop. It was recommended to us by Earlene
    Moore...aka Pwd sugar - on AOL.She got one too. The name of it is DELUXE. I am home now. I'll try and
    remember to give you the 800# tomorrow. This is the nicest company I've ever dealt with. Business like but
    very patient. I bet we called them 10 times asking questions. They patiently answered every one. We are in
    OH.
       The company is in Florida. Earlene met them when they had a booth at the FL ICES convention last year.
    Someone else told me they got one there too and liked it very much. I forget who, but she lives in FL.
    We got 2 ovens. Each holds 3 full sheet cakes. The ovens are permantly attached.

This is where we got our wonderful ovens:
    De Luxe
    Bradenton, FL 34207
    1-800-367-8931

    We paid over $6,000.00 for 2 ovens. They have several sizes to fit your needs. They have brochures. I totally
    endorse this company!

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Oven
    Date: Fri Mar 27 11:50:20 1998
    Message:
       well i have tried all of them and *imho* they are all alike!
       right now, i have an electric oven at home and a commercial convection (elec) at the shop. the one at home
    seems to have a 'hot spot' in the back of the oven, but i have learned to deal w/that.
    the convection is what is called a 1/2 oven. it is small and the largest it holds is a lg 1/2 sheet (12"x18"); it
    will hold 3 at once. there are 4 shelves, but when filled w/many pans it dosn't bake evenly.
    i have put a 1/2 sheet, a 12" round, 2/8" rounds; and 2/6" rounds (or some sort of combination) in all at once
    and the cakes all finish at different times w/the 8"ers takeing the longest! lol. we bought it used for $1200.
    lynne

Author: michelle
    Subject: flower arranging book
    Date: Thu Mar 26 11:15:37 1998
    Message:
       I need to find a good book that shows pictures of arranging
    flowers on a cake after I've made them, and pictures of making flowers. If you have any ideas let me know.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: flower arranging book
    Date: Thu Mar 26 20:40:10 1998
    Message:
       The Wilton Encyclopedias come to my mind first. This is the largest selection of flowers in one book that I
    can think of. Each encyclopedia is geared to dif. techniques. I don't know which I'd want just for flowers. All
    have flowers. I suppose it would be Book 1 for beginning. They get more advanced in Book 2 & 3.
       For florist books, try a florist supply shop. They have one downtown Cincinnati and I'd think there would be
    one nice one in most larger cities.
 

Author: linda
    Subject: Disney cake pans
    Date: Wed Mar 25 21:13:32 1998
    Message:
       I am trying to collect all the Disney cake pans, (I cake decorate only as a hobby) but I am unaware of which
    ones were made and when. I only have yearbooks from 1985 and up, so I am aware of those, need to know
    any Disney pans previous to 1985. Any help would be great, so I can continue my search.    Thanks, Linda

Author: Rebecca
    Subject: Old Disney pans
    Date: Thu Mar 26 01:10:43 1998
    Message:
    Hi Linda!
    I just saw 2 different 1976 Jiminy Cricket cake pans on the Ebay auction. This one ends in a 5 days:
    http://iguana.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=9199477
    and this one ends in 2 days:
    http://iguana.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=8944865
    (If you just highlight the web address I listed with your mouse and copy and paste it into your destination or
    location box, you can get there without having to type in the big old long address.)
    Hope this helps!! :)    Rebecca

Author: Karen
    Subject: Do you know about PME Sugarcraft
    Date: Tue Mar 24 11:44:17 1998
    Message:
    I am looking for an email address or web site to contact cake & confectioners equipment manufacturers : PME
    Sugarcraft, Brember Road, South Harrow, HA2 8UN England.
    If you have the details, please do post it here or email it to me.    Thank you,    Karen

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Do you know about PME Sugarcraft
    Date: Wed Mar 25 12:22:50 1998
    Message:
    Hi Karen,    We carry quite an extensice line in PME cutters and tools. Is there something I can help you with here?
    Dolores

Author: Karen
    Subject: PME RollerBoards
    Date: Wed Mar 25 22:46:44 1998
    Message:
    Hi Dolores,
       Thanks for your quick reply. I would like to buy the Rollerboards for making marzipan fruit/ petit-fours. I
    have an old catalogue with me (1991). As we live in India it is difficult to buy stuff on the Internet. I do have
    someone in the UK who would be willing to buy the boards for me there and bring it to India. That is why I
    was looking for PME(UK) Sugarcraft's Latest Catalogue and their email address.
    If you do have the boards could you send me the price list and also tell me if you could post them to Cincinati
    OHIO. I have a sister there.    Thanks,    Karen

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: PME RollerBoards
    Date: Thu Mar 26 11:27:59 1998
    Message:
      Sue just added PME items last night...under GUMPASTE in our 'online catalog' - Check there and then you
    can email me from there.
       By the way...your sister is only probably 30 minutes from my shop (small world isn't it!) Tell her I am on
    Rout 4 in Hamilton Ohio...that is just north of Cincinnati and above the I-275 Cincinnati circle freeway.

Author: Karen
    Subject: PME Rollerboards
    Date: Fri Mar 27 05:34:40 1998
    Message:
    Hi Dolores,
    I checked out your catalogue but I did not find the rollerboards. They may not be available anymore. I had
    seen them in the 1991 Catalogue. Anyway, thanks for replying, and I will be visting your site often. I just
    finished making a Witch with a Cauldron Cake for my seven year old daughter Neha. I am very fond of making
    and icing cakes and used to make wedding cakes professionally up until my children were born. Now it's
    Birthday Cakes !!!
    Thanks for the help. I will pass on your address to my sister and she will probably visit your shop.
    Regards,    Karen

Author: Kristiana
    Subject: Airbrush
    Date: Sun Mar 22 22:22:53 1998
    Message:
    I want to buy an airbrush system, but I don't know which one is the best. Can anybody help me . Thank you
    very much!

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Airbrush
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:56:48 1998
    Message:
       Check on my AIRBRUSH page
    And I would definately want the Kopy Kake one thats about $150.00 (You MUST use airbrush colors with
    airbrushes too, not the regular)
       And don't get suckered into getting the airbrush with the expensive compressor! It is NOT necassary. With all
    our cakes we don't need it, so I doubt you do unless you work in some baking plant that does cakes all day
    long non-stop.

Author: MaraTLee
    Subject: Re: airbrushes
    Date: Sat Mar 28 18:09:20 1998
    Message:
    Hi,     Dolores is right. There is an airbrush out there with a black compressor and it comes with some empty bottles
    for about 150.00 dollars from Kopy Kake. I used it for a couple of years , then I upgraded the compressor,
    then I upgraded the airbrush when I took the Winbeckler's airbrush class. Even though the class was GREAT!
    I haven't really had the oportunity to use the tech, very much in my little town. So, if you are gung ho to get into
    airbrushing, the inexpensive model is just as good as any. You will find that your cakes will take on a life they
    didn't have before with the bit of added color. Also, don't be afraid to play with different looks. *for example
    for valentine's day, I airbrushed red through a paper doiley around the edges of my cakes. It looked very
    nice.* Mara

Author: Linda
    Subject: candy mold
    Date: Fri Mar 20 18:40:35 1998
    Message:
    I am looking for a candy mold to make a shot glass. At some weddings they are using these with amaretto to
    toast the bride and groom. Any ideas where to get the mold?

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: candy mold
    Date: Sun Mar 22 10:45:19 1998
    Message:
    We carry a 'flower pot' mold that is the size of the shot glass. But maybe you really want a mold the size of a
    liqueur cup for Amaretta? We also carry these molds....what I'd use

Author: Julie Guay
    Subject: patterns
    Date: Thu Mar 19 11:20:28 1998
    Message:
    I have just recently started doing cakes from home and really enjoy it. I wasn't aware of the character cakes
    and the copyryghts laws. There is a great demand for them in my town. I am not going to make them any longer
    but would like to know where I may get a book with assorted patterns that are not illegal to transfer on a cake
    to sell.I live in Canada and would not mind the cost of shipping /handling .
    Please reply as soon as possible, Many Thanks Julie

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: patterns
    Date: Thu Mar 19 18:03:06 1998
    Message:
    We carry pattern books that ARE legal. Go to our BOOKS section of our online catalog. There are some
    under Roland Winbeckler's books and others. I like Barb McCann's (books 1, 2, 3 - Sweet Talk $7.99 each.)

Author: Julie
    Subject: pans
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:39:51 1998
    Message:
    Thank you very much for your fast reply, it was greatly appreciated. I do have one more question ,if you could
    clarify this subject once and for all for me. Can I purchase a cake pan say from Wilton's own assorted
    occasion pans ,not Disney's and decorate them for selling. Is this also illegal because Wilton's also have
    copyright signs on their pans . I feel very confused with this subject, so if you can email me with info I'd be
    very happy to hear from you. Thanks again!    Your friend Julie Guay

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: pans
    Date: Mon Mar 23 16:15:51 1998
    Message:
    It isn't Wilton that CARES if you make a cake in their pan...they only bought rights from Disney and others for
    personal use. They won't care if you make non-copyrighted cakes like a Teddy Bear and sell it.
    Wilton's pans ARE all copyrighted to the extent that they don't allow someone else to manufacture a pan in a
    likeness of one of theirs, you see.

Author: Julie
    Subject: Enlightened
    Date: Tue Mar 24 11:08:21 1998
    Message:
    Dolores
    Thank you very much for all your information.It was a tremendous help in finally figuring out the legal
    technicality of decorating cakes the right way. I think this kind of communication line is crucial in order to
    help others who are in need of information pertaining to cakes and decorating. Keep up the great work and
    best wishes!!!    your friend, Julie/ Creative Cake Designs

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Chocolate Easter Eggs
    Date: Tue Mar 17 15:11:55 1998
    Message:
    Hi Gang,
    Does anyone know if you can use a panoramic egg 5" plastic mold to mold hollow chocolate Easter Eggs? I
    want to make a large chocolate mold and fill it with other candy and would hate to buy a different mold if this
    will work. Thanks Renee

Author: Julie
    Subject: Re: Chocolate Easter Eggs
    Date: Tue Mar 17 23:26:52 1998
    Message:
    I don't think you should use the mold if you have already used it with sugar. The sugar is course probably
    scratched the mold - those little scratches really show up with chocolate!     Sorry,     Julie

Author: Renee V
    Subject: New Mold
    Date: Wed Mar 18 08:26:43 1998
    Message:
    It is a new mold. I bought it because I liked the size, etc, never used it for sugar eggs. I think I'll just try it and
    see if it works. Thanks for the input. Renee

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: New Mold
    Date: Sun Mar 22 10:47:38 1998
    Message:
    Right on (about the scratches) they will show up.
    I think maybe you'll need to coat it twice to make the chocolate thick enough for filling with candies. Just
    coat/chill and then coat/chill again.

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Results of Choc. Eggs
    Date: Mon Mar 23 08:46:49 1998
    Message:
    Hi All,
    Thanks for the info Delores. That is exactly how I did it this weekend and the egg came out perfectly!.
    I finally got around to trying the tempering "trick" I read about in Faye Gardern's "Cake Decorating". Well....
    it doesn't work! I mixed about 8oz of Callebaut milk chocolate with about 2oz of compound coating and
    melted them together per her instructions. The first sign that it was a failed experiment came when the
    chocolate took forever to harden and did not want to release from my new metal molds even after they had
    been in the freezer forever. The true results came when the chocolate got soft at room temperature. A
    definative sign that it had not been tempered or it had been tempered improperly. Oh well, you've got to try
    new things to see if they work. For now, I'll go back to using compound coating. (I really do like the taste, I
    just wanted to see if this worked with the real stuff.) I know how to temper chocolate traditionally, but it is a
    lot of headache and sometimes even for all your efforts, it doesn't turn out right. Someday someone will figure
    out how to make real chocolate with cocoa butter that it stable enough not to need tempering. Until then , count
    me in as a Merken's memeber LOL.    Renee

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Results of Choc. Eggs
    Date: Mon Mar 23 16:59:04 1998
    Message:
    I certainly have to agree with you on the Merckens chocolate. It handles by far the best. It will withstand more
    abuse of heating/cooling than any other I've ever used. And tastes best too.
    One thing...if you ever do want the challenge of tempering, try the big thick book by Elaine Gonzales. Now
    there IS a candy lady! She demos at shows and is THE expert. She gives you so many great ideas it makes
    your head spin.

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Chocolate book
    Date: Tue Mar 24 08:28:50 1998
    Message:
    Hi Delores,
    I have definitely heard of her! What is the name of her book and do you carry it? Thanks, Renee

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Chocolate book
    Date: Tue Mar 24 09:13:39 1998
    Message:
    Yes, the title it "Chocolate Artistry" by Elaine Gonzalez $14.95 - It is out of stock. Probably out-of-print. It
    even shows chocolate decorating with cakes and cookies too.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"DECORATIONS":

Author: Mary
    Subject: Choo choo
    Date: Sat Mar 28 22:34:54 1998
    Message:
    What would Y'all charge for a 3D choo choo engine with three or four small cars covered and decorated with
    buttercreme? I quoted $30. Am I underpricing?

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Choo choo
    Date: Sun Mar 29 00:22:56 1998
    Message:
    sounds in the ballpark to me mary.
    my guess is this would be about the amount of cake in a 1/2 sheet, right?
    are you using the 3d engine pan?    if so, i'd charge about the same.    lynne

Author: Dana
    Subject: Interlocking string work
    Date: Sat Mar 28 10:01:27 1998
    Message:
    I need to make a cake with triple interlocking string work where one side goes under and the other goes over
    the next set of strings. I can't figure out how to start this pattern. It is pictured in a cake called Synchronized
    Strings (p16) in one of the new Wilton Wedding books. If anyone can help direct me to some type of diagram
    or other illustration on how to do this, I willl be grateful. Thanks

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Interlocking string work
    Date: Sat Mar 28 11:38:42 1998
    Message:
    I didn't know which book you meant. What was the title?
    Try it this way: make one row of 3 strings. For the next row, start in the center between the left & right side of
    where you did the last group of strings.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Re: Interlocking string work
    Date: Sat Mar 28 19:08:25 1998
    Message:
    i think that is the best way to do it.
    i haven't place which book she is talking about either.
    i have too much trouble w/stringwork, i avoid it when ever i can :) i can do great if it is short 'loops' but to do
    anything wider than 1", it's awful.    lynne

Author: Dana
    Subject: book name
    Date: Sun Mar 29 08:34:35 1998
    Message:
    The book is called Wilton Wedding cakes (or Album)-paperback-put out within a year..not the newest "Bridal
    cakes"

Author: Jeannine
    Subject: car cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 18:36:23 1998
    Message:
    I have a customer who would like a cake on Monday, and wants the cake to look like a red Grand Am. I do
    not own a car shaped pan and was wondering if anyone has any ideas? I do have some wafer paper I could
    draw a red grand am, but the customer really wanted a shaped cake. Help!

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: car cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 00:36:46 1998
    Message:
    since you want a shapped cake why not cut it out of a sheet?
    just draw your pic and enlarge it. (go to a copy place? use graph paper?) use a pic of shapped pan in a wilton
    yrbk to get idea of shape you want.    lynne

Author: Julie
    Subject: car cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 11:24:40 1998
    Message:
    I have done a car cake a couple of times - I use a loaf pan (I think it was originally for meatloaf), carve out the
    shape of a car. Place the entire car on a larger cake that I draw a road on. Use chicklet gum for the side
    mirrors, spaghetti for the antenea, flatten a tootsie roll for the spoiler and oreo's for the wheels. Stick a dowl
    thru the entire thing so the car does not roll off.
    I don't think I'm doing it justice with my explanation, if your interested I can e-mail you a picture.    Julie

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: car cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 11:41:15 1998
    Message:
    Can you download my carcakes.zip? I have done these with 9x13" sheet cakes. It shows 3 styles 3D all
    decorated.    You can find this file under CAKE PICTURES, FROM MY menu

Author: Vicky
    Subject: Color of Roses
    Date: Fri Mar 27 11:22:50 1998
    Message:
    I was wondering if anyone can tell me what the different colors of roses mean? Thank you.    Vicky

Author: Kathy M.
    Subject: color of roses
    Date: Sat Mar 28 19:50:56 1998
    Message:
    Hi Vicky,     Red means love, yellow is friendship and I'm not sure about the others, buy like Carolyn said, a florist would
    definitely know.     Kathy M.

Author: Vicky
    Subject: I found some.
    Date: Sat Mar 28 21:32:10 1998
    Message:
       Thanks for your input but I was looking around on the web and found some. Here they are for others if
    interested.
    Red Roses- Love, respect
    White Roses- innocence, secrecy
    Yellow Roses- Joy, friendship
    Coral Roses- Desire
    Light Pink Roses- Grace, joy
    Dark Pink Roses- Thankfulness
    Lavender Roses- Enchantment
    Orange Roses- Fascination

Author: Robin Hamann
    Subject: Armadillo Cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 10:27:08 1998
    Message:
    I recently completed Wilton's professional cake decorating course. So,I'm fairly new at this craft. A friend of
    mine is getting married in May and asked that I prepare the groom's cake. The groom is from Texas and tells
    me it's tradition to have an armadillo cake. And it's to look
    lifelike. So, I located pictures of armadillo's via the net. I baked a rectangular cake, cut it in half, stacked it
    and put 1/2 of the sports ball on top. My husband was very scared and suggested that I surf around and see if
    there may be an armadillo cake pan out there. I'd appreciate any and all suggestions. Thanks in advance!
 

Author: Debi
    Subject: Re: Armadillo Cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 17:51:53 1998
    Message:
    You didn't say how big you needed the cake. I did one last month using a square pan and placed on top of it an
    egg shaped pan (half of it :)) I used one corner of the square pan for its face. It turned out well it feed approx.
    20 people. And I did the cake in red velvet. They loved it.    Debi

Author: kelly
    Subject: armadillo cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 21:16:16 1998
    Message:
    Hi Robin, I too am from Texas, right smack dab in the middle and I can tell you first of all it's pronounced
    "armadilla" and secondly, I have seen hundreds of armadillas (LOL) and they all had one thing in common,
    they were all flat as pancakes!!! I don't think I ever saw a real armadilla for more than 10 seconds actually
    ALIVE!!I am sorry, I know that you really need some ideas and since I could not offer any help I thought
    maybe I could put a smile on your face! Have fun with this cake and let us all here how it turns out. I hope you
    receive this message in the spirit it was sent, laughter. kelly

Author: MaraTLee
    Subject: Re: armadillo cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 18:20:34 1998
    Message:
    Dear Robin:
    The best That I can do is this, There is an "armadillo" groom's cake in the movie "Steel Magnolias" you can
    rent the video and check it out. ( I have a collection of movies with cake in them, DON'T ASK--{G}-----) It
    was red inside LOL---you could make it out of white cake batter that you have tinted red and use some
    rasberry or strawberry filling--:)    I think they covered that cake with rolled fondant, that they may or may not have airbrushed. mara

Author: jen
    Subject: I've made one.
    Date: Sun Mar 29 09:28:28 1998
    Message:
    Hi! I made one last year. I baked a cake with the doll pan split it in half to make body. I also baked two small
    cakes with the little loaf pans that serve one. I shaped the little loaf pan into the head just by trimming it. The
    other loaf pan I cut into pieces to make the tail, also using trimmed pieces from the doll pan. For decorating I
    used chocolate buttercream that I added black coloring to, so it would look more natural. I remember that I
    used the round tips to resemble the different scale markings on its shell.(Don't think I'm naming these parts the
    right way :) Anyway, for the ears I used two corners off the small pans trimmed them and then they had to be
    held on with a toothpick each. I try to make completely edible but pretzel sticks didn't work. As a reference
    picture I just used the encyclopedia. I did rent Steel Magnolias also but didn't use that idea. Everybody at my
    husbands work loved it, they even said mine looked more life like than the movie one. Hope this helps you.

Author: Heather
    Subject: Re: the topic of last weeks "kitchen chat"- making flowers
    Date: Fri Mar 27 06:58:03 1998
    Message:
    Could anyone please send me or post the copy of last weeks chat when Dolores was telling us how to make
    the flowers? I tried to do it from memory.. but cant seem to be able to....
    Thankyou to everyone in advance    Heather

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Re: the topic of last weeks "kitchen chat"- making flowe
    Date: Fri Mar 27 09:33:49 1998
    Message:
    Hi Heather,    I already posted that on my web site under AOL CHATS...

Author: Doreen
    Subject: Marking scallops on cake sides
    Date: Thu Mar 26 21:17:48 1998
    Message:
    Does anyone have a tried and true method for marking scallops on cake sides? I've tried the Wilton method of
    dropping stringwork guidlines....with disaster!!!!
    I've tried doing it free-hand with a toothpick then covering with tip 16 or 17 shells or e-maotion, but they
    never come out even.
    Any good methods or tools for doing this? I'd appreciate any help you can give.

Author: Susan
    Subject: Scallops on sides
    Date: Thu Mar 26 22:47:06 1998
    Message:
    I know that Wilton has a gadget that marks the sides to make it easy to follow. And I also have a press that I
    use that marks the sides. It is pink and has prongs that stick out that leaves little holes so that you can mark it
    and then cover with your scallops. I am sure that Dolores has either one of these and they are excellent. They
    also are adjustable so you can mark the cake, no matter what size, evenly. Check out Dolores' on line catalog.
    They are probably listed there. Susan

Author: Cindy
    Subject: scallops on sides
    Date: Thu Mar 26 23:02:10 1998
    Message:
    To mark the sides, you could also cut a plastic/paper/styrofoam cup down the middle vertically. Then just use
    the half lip to lightly mark sides.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Marking scallops on cake sides
    Date: Fri Mar 27 00:06:26 1998
    Message:
    the markers susan spoke of come two to a set. they are what i use most of the time.
    i have seen people use anything round or oval. have the oval cutter set? or as was mentioned a foam cup cut
    down or *anything* round lightly pressed into the icing will leave a mark that can be followed w/you string or
    zizzag deisgn.    lynne

Author: Amy
    Subject: wrap-around colorflow train
    Date: Thu Mar 26 21:05:02 1998
    Message:
    I have an order for an 8" train cake for a 3 yr. old. I thought of making the train cars in colorful colorflow :)
    formed to wrap around the cake by drying on the side of a cake pan. I've never done this before any hints?
    Also are there any ideas for attaching it to the cake?     Thanks,    Amy

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: wrap-around colorflow train
    Date: Fri Mar 27 00:10:19 1998
    Message:
    i have not done this.
    as for how to get it to stand up on the cake, just attach toothpicks to the back of the pieces w/royal to help
    support /hold it up.    lynne

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: wrap-around colorflow train
    Date: Fri Mar 27 09:39:08 1998
    Message:
    I haven't made a train. But I have made other items on the sides of cakes.
    A cake dummy the very same size as the cake it will be placed on is better than a pan. Put was paper on the
    dummy and secure with corsage pins....NOT little straight pins (for safety!!!)! Be sure your color flow is not
    real thin. I like it to be thick enough that I need to jar it a bit for it to thin out. Otherwise it can run too much.
    Let the piece dry for 2 days. I like Lynne's suggestion of propping it for a little bit, placing it on the cake.
    Secure it on the cake with buttercream icing. The piece may soften some, but won't break.

Author: MaraTLee
    Subject: Re: wrap around train
    Date: Sat Mar 28 18:30:46 1998
    Message:
    Dear Amy:
    Dolores' suggestion is the way to go--attach wax or parchment paper to a dummy with the pattern under it.
    Pipe out your train. I suggest piping each car separate to minimize the breakage, let dry. ( I have a cake
    dummy that I have cut in 1/2 so that I can lay it on it's cut side to dry and not loose my shapes)--( you can also
    rub a minute amount of crisco on the paper before you pipe to make it easier to remove the piece. ) When it is
    dry I would decorate the sides of my cake with the passing scenery as seen from a train window, --grass,
    trees, cows, building, whatever---simple or extravagant, it's up to you----then I would have some royal icing
    train tracks on the cake board and stand my cake on it. (make sure it is well attached and dry--24 hours)---then
    you can pipe your message on the top of the cake. Cute, Huh? Let me know how it turns out. :)

Author: Judy
    Subject: Cub Scout Cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 20:27:31 1998
    Message:
    I need an idea for a cub scout pack meeting. Next month we
    are having a cake decorating contest. The cakes will then
    be auctioned off to raise money. I need an idea that is easy
    enough for my 8 year old to help too. Thanks!    Judy

Author: kelly
    Subject: cub scout cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 20:59:28 1998
    Message:
    Hi Judy, My husband and son did this once, they just did a simple baseball cake,16" round with the red
    stitching on it, they actually did a very good job. I think you could try maybe, the troop # or pack # what is
    your son a bobcat or what? I have forgotten what age is what, but maybe you could find a picture in a coloring
    book of whatever he is, you know like bobcat or whatever, and then trace it and transfer it on to the cake and
    fill in with stars, whatever you decide good luck but most of all, HAVE FUN!!!! Kelly

Author: Nannette
    Subject: cub scout cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 23:35:38 1998
    Message:
    I'm going out on a limb here, because I don't have boys and know next to nothing about cub scouts. But, I
    thought they were supposed to earn badges for stuff (I hope I'm not completely embarrassing myself by
    confusing them with girl scouts....). Anyway, you could cut out wafer paper in the shape of the badges, color
    the wafer paper to look like a badge with food coloring pens, coat the "badges" with piping gel, and put them
    on the cake. If your son can't actually draw the badges, maybe you could draw them and he could just color
    them in.

    To coat with piping gel: put the wafer paper badge on a big piece of wax paper. Dump a huge amount of
    piping gel on the badge. Draw a large spatula over the top of the badge so that you just leave a *very* thin and
    even coat of piping gel on top of the wafer paper; try not to actually scrape the surface of the wafer paper, and
    don't draw the spatula over the badge more than two times. You can put all the extra piping gel back in your
    container. The badge may buckle a little, depending on the type of piping gel you use; after a few minutes, it
    will absorb whatever moisture it is going to, and flatten out. With a clean spatula, scoop the badge off the wax
    paper, and put it on to a clean piece of wax paper to dry some more, or put directly on your cake. Hope this
    helps.

    (Sorry if you're getting this for the second time. I actually posted this idea a couple of nights ago, but it seems
    to have gone off into a black hole somewhere in cyberspace!)

Author: Dana
    Subject: Cub Scout cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 10:18:57 1998
    Message:
    I did a cub scout cake recently to look like the emblem and it wasn't too difficult. Use a square cake and ice it
    golden yellow. Use a large basketweave tip to make straight lines around the top edges. Transfer the wolf to
    the cake (I used the piping gel method) and trace lines with the royal blue. Then write CUB SCOUTS
    underneath. If you want a picture of this cake, I can e-mail it to you. Or, you can make a simplified camping
    cake scaled down from the 91 or 93 yearbook (I forget which). Ice a cake brown. Make grey rock shapes for
    top and bottom borders (They should not be uniform). Pipe a mound of icing with tip 12 and cover with grass
    tip for bushes (or one of the leaf tips). A couple of pretzels make the campfire with tip 67 flames coming out.
    Then figure pipe a figure or too in a sleeping bag. If you don't have a yearbook, I did one of these for a men's
    retreat. The pictures aren't back yet, but I could e-mail this too when I get the pictures Monday.

Author: Carol
    Subject: Football helmet cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 18:31:58 1998
    Message:
    I have and idea for a cake as a standup football helmet. My friend wants a Green Bay Packers helmet for a
    groom's cake. Any suggestions as to how I would go about doing that? I would like to try to do it 3D. Any help
    would be appreciated. Thanks. Carol

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Football helmet cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 09:41:33 1998
    Message:
    Did you see our Green Bay Packers Edible Image? I think that would make a very striking design. Have the
    helmet that size etc. (View a pict. under EDIBLE IMAGES / FOOTBALL)

Author: Sue
    Subject: frosting a chocolate cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 16:52:19 1998
    Message:
    How do you frost a chocolate cake with white frosting from having chocolate crumbs show thru the frosting?
    Also does any one have a good chocolate frosting recipe. Thanks for any suggestions.

Author: Carolyn
    Subject: Frosting Chocolate Cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 19:58:10 1998
    Message:
    I freeze or chill most all my cakes and find this helps in not having the crumb problem. Some crumb coat
    which would also keep them out of the main frosting. Put a blob of lots of frosting on the top and work the top
    part first and then do the sides.

    For chocolate frosting, I just add cocoa to my buttercream and a little warm water if it gets too stiff. Makes a
    very tasty chocolate icing and easy, too.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: frosting a chocolate cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 09:46:26 1998
    Message:
    Chocolate Icing: I add Hershey's Powdered Cocoa to my white buttercream icing...wioll take almost a cup for
    an entire batch of icing. Then add water to thin it back to the proper consistency.

    If icing is very stiff it pulls off crumbs. Usually this won't happen much wehn the icing is thinner....add water
    if too stiff. I crumb coat first, then go right back over and finish icing...BEFORE the bottom coat dries...or the
    dry crumcoat makes crustys in the final coat sometimes. Never ice a frozen cake for any reason...you'll have a
    mess. I think they've told you to freeze it then bring to room temp before icing.

Author: Carolyn
    Subject: Frosting Chocolate Cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 20:07:56 1998
    Message:
    Yes, Dolores is right and I hope I didn't mislead anyone. I let the cakes thaw out before icing them.

Author: Rebecca
    Subject: chocolate buttercream
    Date: Fri Mar 27 23:40:36 1998
    Message:
    Hi Sue!
    I just tried this last week. I put 4 ounces of *white* baking chocolate into my normal buttercream recipe (2 lbs
    of pwd sugar). Since white chocolate isn't pure white, it tinted the icing just a bit, but not very noticibly unless
    you were to put pure white flowers or something on it. I liked the taste a lot better, but I think I'll probably
    only use it in the future if I plan to tint the icing anyway (i.e. for ivory wedding cakes).

Author: Renee V
    Subject: frosting a chocolate cake
    Date: Mon Mar 30 08:51:07 1998
    Message:
    Hi!
    I find that freezing and thawing the cake works very well to controll crumbs and then I use the Icer Tip. I have
    never had a crumb problem with this meathod. I just did a chocolate cake with white icing last weekend and it
    worked perfectly. Hope this helps. Renee

Author: Carolyn
    Subject: Cake for Mayor
    Date: Thu Mar 26 13:33:15 1998
    Message:
    I've been asked to do a cake for 100 people and they want it in 2 sheet cakes (one chocolate and one white)
    and I will use 2 12x18's. This is for the Mayor of a very small town and he has been Mayor for 20 some years
    and is moving up in the world to a larger area as their Mayor. They want something really neat, but I haven't
    come up with any great ideas yet. Can you guys give me some help on this one??? Thanks.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Cake for Mayor
    Date: Fri Mar 27 00:29:19 1998
    Message:
    hi carolyn;    the 1st thing that comes to my mind is a gavel :)
    how about making the city seal or logo?
    in all that time he must have doen some really special things or for humor something he is teased about?
    maybe done as rice paper drawings or drawn w/icing right on the cake.
    how about an airbrushed portorate of him or city hall.
    will these 1/2 sheets be two layer (4")?
    oh, something in celebrate just flashed in my head. one of them has 3 or 4 past presidents (u.s.) done
    needlepoint fashion colorflow portorate.
    whene do you need this, tomorrow?? :)    lynne

Author: Carolyn
    Subject: Cake for Mayor
    Date: Fri Mar 27 23:32:18 1998
    Message:
    To answer some of your questions - I don't need this until sometime in April, the 20th, I think. I don't do
    airbrush and this town is so small, they don't have a city hall. The gavel or something humorous might work or
    the bridge idea to the 2 towns/cities might work. I'll have to call the lady and see if she knows of anything
    humorous about him. I also don't care for rice paper - just draw it on the cake with my projector and fill in.
    The cakes are only 1 layer. This is the way most cakes are done in this area if they are sheet cakes. If anyone
    comes up with any other ideas, please post them. They want something really special they said as he has been
    there 20 years. Thanks to all.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Cake for Mayor
    Date: Sat Mar 28 00:01:32 1998
    Message:
    don't you just love it when the customer wants something 'really special' and dosn't give you a clue! :)
    i'll keep my thinking cap on for you:)    lynne

Author: Anonymous
    Subject: Re: Cake for Mayor
    Date: Fri Mar 27 18:51:53 1998
    Message:
    How about decorating each of the two cakes to represent the two cities (past and future cities he is mayor of)
    and connecting them with a bridge?

Author: Jane
    Subject: Frozen Buttercream
    Date: Wed Mar 25 00:13:28 1998
    Message:
    I saw a posting about transferring pictures using frozen buttercream recently and just had the chance to try it. It
    worked beautifully! I found a cute graphic of a bunny sitting on an easter egg on CorelDraw. The cake is a
    monthly birthday cake for a realty office and had 8 names for this month. The bunny graphic is on the center
    bottom of the full size sheet cake with Happy Birthday written over his head. I outlined 4 egg shapes on either
    side of the bunny to put the birthday names in and decorated everything in pastel colors with lots of green
    grass. I also used grass and drop flowers as the base border. It really turned out nice and I love the frozen
    buttercream method. It softens really fast, though, so I don't think too large a picture can be used -- or you'd
    have to do it in sections.

Author: Sly
    Subject: bunny pattern URL
    Date: Wed Mar 25 07:44:16 1998
    Message:
    Amazingly, I have used the exact same Corel Draw picture you are referring to. It's quite cute. If anyone wants
    it in time for Easter, you can see it, print it, or download it from
    http://www.wizard.net/~casanova/Bunny1.gif

Author: Patricia
    Subject: Frozen Buttercream
    Date: Wed Mar 25 10:29:53 1998
    Message:
    I like using the frozen buttercream technique too. Before I found out about this method, I always used royal
    icing to "draw" pictures for my cakes. But, I like this method much better. I like the idea that you can cut
    through the design instead of having to remove it before cutting the cake. I had an order earlier in the week for
    a birthday cake with a picture of a horse on it. It worked out fine. I was afraid the black I used for the outline
    and for the mane and tail might bleed as it thawed, but this wasn't a problem.:)

Author: Jeannine
    Subject: frozen buttercream method
    Date: Fri Mar 27 19:50:34 1998
    Message:
    Can someone explain to me what the frozen buttercream method of pattern transfer is? I know I've heard about
    it before, but I don't know how it's done. I'd like to try it if it's worked so well for everyone else! :) Thanks!

Author: Jane
    Subject: How To . . .
    Date: Fri Mar 27 22:00:52 1998
    Message:
    It's really simple. Place a piece of glass over your picture or drawing (I used a piece from an 8 x 10" frame)
    and then tape waxed paper over the glass. Outline and fill in your picture with stars or whatever works in
    buttercream. Carefully untape the waxed paper, then slide onto a cookie sheet or cutting board or something
    that will fit into your freezer. Freeze overnight, then, working quickly, slide the picture toward the edge of
    your counter, carefully peeling the waxed paper downward from the back of the picture. Lay it in the
    appropriate place on your cake and you're ready to finish. I was so afraid I'd break the bunny, that I worked a
    little too slow and actually lost one of his ears -- meltdown! Luckily, it was such a small easy part of the
    picture, I was able to just draw it directly onto the cake and you couldn't even tell it was done separately.
    This cake was done for my daughter's real estate office and she told me that everyone cut pieces from all
    around the bunny until that's all that was left because they all thought it was too cute to eat!

Author: Nannette
    Subject: how to/frozen buttercream
    Date: Sat Mar 28 23:12:27 1998
    Message:
    Jane's method sounds easy, but it is completely different from the way I have learned/seen it demoed. If you
    go to www.cakemag.com , there is an article there on the frozen buttercream method you could take a look at.
    The way it is shown there is how I have learned it.

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: Marpol tip #85-What's it for?
    Date: Tue Mar 24 12:02:27 1998
    Message:
    I got this tip as a promotional gift, but I've never seen one like it and can't figure out what I would use it for. It
    has sort of a triangular opening. Anyone ever used this?

Author: Sly
    Subject: Tip #85
    Date: Wed Mar 25 07:32:21 1998
    Message:
    I've used one before to create a top border ruffle, by keeping one point of the triangle against the cake, the
    other two corners point up and out and down and out, so if you do a slight zig-zag motion as you go around,
    you can get a double-ruffle effect. Heaven only knows what it's really meant for. I inherited one when I got all
    of my grandmother's decorating supplies. All I could find in an old Wilton book was that it is to be used for
    "flute effects". (Yet they always show a picture of just a straight triangular stripe as the sample decoration.)

Author: jillybean
    Subject: tip 85
    Date: Wed Mar 25 19:59:02 1998
    Message:
    I have the wilton encyclopedia 3 and in it they show the uses of tips. They show using 85 just like a star tip
    for borders, shells and even stars. Hope this helps!

Author: BETH RUSSELL
    Subject: KITTY CAKE
    Date: Tue Mar 24 08:57:02 1998
    Message:
    I'VE BEEN ASKED TO DO A KITTY CAKE. I'VE LOOKED AT ALL THE LOCAL STORES AND NO
    ONE HAS A PAN FOR THIS. I'M SURE I COULD ORDER ONE FROM SOMEONE BUT I DON'T
    REALLY HAVE THE TIME. THE PERSON ASKED FOR IT FOR THIS FRIDAY, 4 DAYS FROM NOW.
    DOES ANYONE HAVE ANY IDEAS ON HOW TO DO A KITTY CAKE WITHOUT HAVING A CAT
    PAN?    ANY IDEAS WOULD BE APPRECIATED!

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: KITTY CAKE
    Date: Tue Mar 24 11:49:32 1998
    Message:
    hi b eth;; one of wilton's yrbks has a great idea how to use some other pan and add a 6" heart as a head, but i
    don't have that info here at home. i'll look it up at the shop today and post for you tonight. on the same pg is a
    dog also -- i think it's in a yrbk in the last 5 yrs -- say around '90 thru 96 if you have any of those to look thru
    today. or maybe this will give someone else enough info to come up w/it for you before i can get back on
    tonight.    lynne

Author: lynne
    Subject: curled up kitty
    Date: Wed Mar 25 01:06:26 1998
    Message:
    ok........found what i was after:)    wilton's celebrate a to z pg. 16.
    you make the body in an oval pan....about 9x12. if you don't have an oval, cut it from a sheet. it really adds to
    the overall look to have the shape.
    also bake a small heart (6"). trim the tip from the heart so it is rounded. this is the top of the head. place it on
    the oval at top left w/the 'trimmed pointed end at the top. for front paws use some trimmed off cake or make a
    very small cupcake or use marshmellows or even just icing figure pipped. these are at the bottom of the oval
    under the head, but actually on the board. for the back paw just figure pipe a big 'dot' on the oval at the very
    edge. also figure
    pipe a tail starting about 2" up from the bottom on the right lower side of the cake, bringing it around and up
    onto the lower edge of cake. finally figure pipe pointed ears (leaf shapes).
    cover all in stars or use tip #233 for short hair. then make face (tip 5): eyes, nose and mouth. for whiskers,
    cover dry speghetti w/icing and place around mouth.
    hope this helps. if you can see it you will really fall in love w/this....it's all done in pink :)    lynne

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Re: Kitty Cake
    Date: Wed Mar 25 09:39:44 1998
    Message:
    Hi Lynne,
    I love the idea for the Kitty Cake, but am a little confused about the directions. (I'm not great at visualizing
    things!)    Is the oval on the board vertically or horizontally? (I thing horizontally, right?) Does the trimmed heart go on
    top of the oval or does it sit on the board above it? Also where does the back paw go? Thanks for your help. I
    have always wanted to make a kitty cake and don't really like Wilton's shaped pan. Renee

Author: lynne
    Subject: making kitty cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 01:30:36 1998
    Message:
    i understand having problems visulizing this. usually i do too, but *i have the book* lol!

    the oval is horizonal on b oard. the original istructions say to make 2 6" hearts and cut away part of the oval,
    putting the dbl heart in that area. i would just put one heart on top of oval in the upper left side of oval
    the back paw is shown just under the oval about 2/3 of the way back. i'm going to try to give a 'drawing'
    ......don't know how it will come up w/limited symbols to work w/on the puter:)
    ( )
    ( )
    ; ; (paws placement)

    when looking at the oval picture a 1/4 sheet that might help w/placement. the tail starts about 3/4 of the way
    down on the right hand side (on the 1/4 sheet this would be the shorter side of cake) and kind of circles *on
    the board* part of the way then comes up and over the edge ending where the back paw is.

    hope this helps. lynne

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: making kitty cake
    Date: Sun Mar 29 00:28:09 1998
    Message:
    sorry folks.........just checked out my post on discribing how to make the kitty cake and saw the attempt to
    make a drawing did not post right :(

    apparently the word discription did help :)    lynne

Author: debbie
    Subject: Kitty Cake
    Date: Tue Mar 24 22:06:38 1998
    Message:
    If you can find a cute picture of a kitten in a coloring book
    you could transfer the outline to a sheetcake and fill it in
    First xerox the picture and then transfer from that. I f you can find a machine that will let you enlarge the
    picture you can make it whatever size you need it to be. You could add some grass and flowers at the bottom ,
    maybe a blue sky above? Hope this helps to give you some ideas. Good  luck!

Author: Sly
    Subject: Easy Kitty Cake
    Date: Wed Mar 25 07:22:00 1998
    Message:
    There's a very easy kitty cake you can make using two rounds of the same size. The cake is listed in Betty
    Crocker's "New Cake Decorating" book. (Unfortunately, I loaned that to someone yesterday, so I can't
    guarantee the name) It's more of a beginners book of cakes that you can do without purchasing a lot of
    decorating supplies, but it's full of great ideas. I've seen this book at most book stores.

Author: vicki
    Subject: log truck
    Date: Mon Mar 23 17:10:22 1998
    Message:
    my husband would like for me to make a log truck, so he can take it to the woods to share with co-workers. I
    seen the semi truck, but I'm just not sure how I could do the logs and log trailer.  Thanks for any suggestions.
    vicki

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: log truck
    Date: Mon Mar 23 19:44:54 1998
    Message:
    the only thing that comes to my mind is for the logs: use pretsel rods. make a flat cake for the trailer......like a
    sheet cake, but thin and put the pretsels on it.
    hope someone else can suggest something better :(    lynne

Author: Susanna
    Subject: log trailer
    Date: Tue Mar 24 18:39:22 1998
    Message:
    How about making the cake as you would for a full size semi-trailer, (or bake a loaf shape to put on top of the
    flat "bed" of a truck trailer (I don't know what basic method you are using to get the truck and trailer, but
    either method would work). Then with a small serrated knife gently carve the surface of the loaf-shaped cake
    to resemble stacked logs by slicing out small, long horizontal "V" shapes along the length and top and curving
    the top and bottom edges. Ice the logs using a basketweave tip and slightly wavering the lines to simulate
    bark. Need "staves" along the sides to simulate the supports that hold the logs onto the truck bed? How about
    vertical lengths of red or black licorice pressed into the icing and sticking up just slightly over the top of the
    logs?

Author: Anonymous
    Subject: Hand molded decorations
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:58:45 1998
    Message:
    i would like to know if anyone knows how i can get into doing hand molded decorations, esp. people i has
    seen alot of molded decorations or hand molded people on cakes and i wold like to get started on that. I also
    would like to know how much would i charge for a cake that has this type of decoration on it. A customer
    wants to know if i had do the bride and groom, for an anniversary caake, so i am eager to get started.
    any books that I get to learn from? any input on this would be greatly appreciated.    thank you

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Hand molded decorations
    Date: Mon Mar 23 16:38:16 1998
    Message:
    A bride and groom would be made using gumpaste. Use the scratch recipe for people! Not the mix. There are
    molds. You press the (freshly-made) gumpaste into the mold and unmold. Then you roll out and cut out
    clothes. Wet with water just a bit and dress the doll. Hair is done with royal icing.

    You can also use marzipan. But don't expect the nice detail you can achieve with gumpaste.

    This is like sculpting. You can use an exacto knife, very fine sand paper etc for perfection. I love this but is
    time consuming.

    Forget getting enough money for the bridal couple, at least until you get good at it. It will take many hours and
    the items will be priceless. No matter if you really love doing it that much. With this sort of thing, you'll need
    to build up a reputation and a 'following' - don't worry...the word will get out.

    We carry molds and we have one book. Also not plentiful. My gumpaste recipe worked just great for the dolls
    when I made them on my daughter's wedding cake.

Author: Sly
    Subject: hand-molded characters
    Date: Tue Mar 24 08:28:31 1998
    Message:
    i do a lot of hand-molded characters in fondant. Done this way, the characters are a bit more "cartoonish" and
    fun. This probably wouldn't work for something like a bride & groom, but it works great for less formal
    cakes.    If you're new to this, I'd recommend any of Ann Pickard's "Idiot's Guide To...." books. they are great, and easy
    to follow!

Author: Debbie
    Subject: Crystalized Fruit
    Date: Mon Mar 23 00:23:21 1998
    Message:
    Someone has asked me to do a cake with crystalized fruit on top . I have never done this before can someone
    tell me how and pass on any hints? When do you put the fruit on the cake (how long before serving?)
    Thank-you.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Crystalized Fruit
    Date: Mon Mar 23 16:43:59 1998
    Message:
    waaay back this was dicussed. But I don't think they called it 'crystalized' - maybe sugar coated fruit. Its in
    one of the archives...about midway. If you are using Netscape, just open the archive and click EDIT and then
    FIND IN PAGE
    Fill in the word you are searching for in the box.

    I saw this also mentioned on another message board from someone else's web site. 'Gerard' knows how...if
    you can find him.

Author: MaraTLee
    Subject: R: crystalized fruit
    Date: Thu Mar 26 18:52:16 1998
    Message:
    Dear Debbi:
    No need to panic, this is simple. You can use an egg white, or meringue powder and water (ratios are on the
    can)--or powdered egg whites with water, whatever you feel comfortable with. You brush this onto your
    fruits , cover well but do not soak, then sprinkle a good dusting of "extra fine granulated sugar" on to cover the
    fruit, let this dry and "VIOLA" you have crystalized fruit. As far as puting them onto the cake, well, I usually
    arrange them the morning of the event. mara

    I forgot to mention. If you can't find "extra fine granulated sugar" in you local supermarket you can put some
    regular sugar in your food processor, just give it a few pulses(not to many you don't want to make powdered
    sugar) and that will grind the granulated sugar down a bit for you. also, your arrangement of fruit would look
    very attractive with some chocolate twigs and leaves. mara :)

Author: Betty
    Subject: Buttercream Roses
    Date: Sun Mar 22 20:37:07 1998
    Message:
    After teaching for 30 years, I retired about a year ago. Having 8 grandchildren, I decided to learn how to
    make birthday cake. I purchased the Wilton yearbooks and basic supplies and started on the journey of
    learning on my own.

    In this time I have gotten pretty good. My question is this:

    When making buttercream roses, is there anyway to prevent the "broken edges" that I always seem to have. I
    know some people like this but not me. I like to use tip 102 to make daintly roses and the always seem to have
    broken edges. I've tried using 103 and 104 but they also come out the same way. I've tried thinning the icing,
    but then the petals don;t stand up well. I use the crisco/powdered sugar/water/flavoring icing to make the
    roses with.

    Is there a better recipe, an additive or better technique to help prevent this problem? Any advise would be
    most helpful. Thank you.

Author: Mary
    Subject: roses
    Date: Sun Mar 22 22:27:30 1998
    Message:
    I was reading some past messages in the archived posts about this problem. It was suggested to take a
    decorator's brush and paint a line of piping gel up the inside of the icing bag. Make sure that the thin opening
    of your tip lines up with the gel stripe. I hope this helps you.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Buttercream Roses
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:45:33 1998
    Message:
    Have you tried opening your 102 tip a bit more on the small end?

Author: Tamaitha
    Subject: Purple flowers
    Date: Sun Mar 22 17:30:19 1998
    Message:
    I have been using Ateco's VIOLET gel/paste color to make my violet/purple buttercream flowers. However,
    they almost always turn blue when the cake sits in the light, especially if moved in a car and exposed to
    sunlight.

    Does anyone know of a more stable brand of coloring that won't turn blue? I already use water instead of milk
    in the buttercream [someone said that would help but it didn't]    Any suggestions appreciated.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Purple flowers
    Date: Sun Mar 22 20:36:21 1998
    Message:
    Are you saying you DID use milk and your roses still turned blue? Mine never did when I used milk. Let us
    know.

Author: Tamaitha
    Subject: Purple flowers
    Date: Sun Mar 22 17:30:19 1998
      Happened with BOTH milk and water!! [NT] by Tamaitha , Sun Mar 22 20:40

Author: Margaret
    Subject: Cathedral Cake
    Date: Sun Mar 22 14:20:19 1998
    Message:
    I've had several brides show an interest in the Westminster Cathedral Cake. It's shown on the cover of
    'Wedding Cakes" A Wilton Album. My question is how would you charge for this cake? Do take your regular
    price per serving and add the cathedral kit expense? When I tell them it will cost extra they turn the page
    looking for something less expensive. I would love to make this cake but I can't see doing it too cheaply. Any
    advice will be appreciated. Thank you.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Cathedral Cake
    Date: Sun Mar 22 16:57:09 1998
    Message:
    hi margaret; isn't it frustrating when that happens?
    i have several cakes that the same thing happens with :(

    i have yet to figure out the best way to give the price on those. hubby sayes just figure out the cost you want
    based on per serving but just tell customer it is x # of $s....not the price per serving *plus*. but then what do
    you do when they need less (or more) servings and you have to figure it in front of them? :(
    i think we will all be interested in other opinions on this.    lynne

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Cathedral Cake
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:40:19 1998
    Message:
    I have never made this cake, but I have seen the kit in the Wilton yearbook. I assume these peices are not
    reusable and there in lies the problem because you can't just charge a deposit and get the items back. I guess I
    would just be up front about it. Tell the bride that this cake involves some special items that are not reusable
    and therefore you must charge her for this. I think most people will see the logic in this and accept it. Anyone
    who thinks the decorator should just absorb this cost is cheap anyway and not looking for what they really
    want in a wedding cake, they are just look for a great deal. Those who understand, but still don't order the
    cake are probably on a budget. I would think that eventually someone will want the cake enough and be able
    to afford it and will order it. It probably won't be one the cakes you make very often. Are you in a shop or
    have designated area in your home that you can display cakes. Perhaps making a model dummy of this cake
    would entice brides to order it. Just an idea. Whatever you do, don't short change yourself!
    Hope this helps. Renee

Author: Doris
    Subject: Cake Design Projectors
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:21:02 1998
    Message:
    I am really interested in having a cake design projector for drawing images on cakes. I check out the online
    catalog and was surprised at how expensive the Kopy Cake line is. I also saw a projector called a "kopyrite"
    which sell for only about $60.00. I don;t do that many cakes where I'd need a projector and am wondering if
    this one is worth investing in.

    Does anyone out there own and use the Kopyrite model? If so, tell me how you like it and what problems you
    might have encountered with it. Thanks.    Doris

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Cake Design Projectors
    Date: Sun Mar 22 17:04:15 1998
    Message:
    hi doris; i have had the kopyrite projector for many yrs and love it. it is just a smaller (i believe less
    powerful) version of the kopycake. it does everything the same. i think if you had a shop w/many employees
    using it all day long you might want to invest in the kopycake model for endurance. for your use, the kopyrite
    model is perfect.

    mind you, i have had mine for a # of yrs (about 8?). i don't know if it has changed since i got mine. sometimes
    companies do 'cheapen' things over the yrs.     lynne

Author: Carolyn
    Subject: Projector
    Date: Mon Mar 23 23:19:10 1998
    Message:
    Hi Doris - buy the Kopyrite. I don't think you will ever regret it. I've had the Kopyrite for almost 20 years and
    it is the BEST investment I ever made for cake decorating. I do a lot of drawings on cakes - seems people lay
    awake dreaming up ideas to see if I can do them. I am no artist either! I don't use stencils at all. I get pictures
    everywhere to put in the machine - newspapers, copyright free books, coloring books, wherever I see
    something cute. I don't use an airbrush. I outline the projected picture with a #1 and black or brown icing.
    Then I fill it in with buttercream from a #2 and then smooth it with a smooth paper towel. I usually go back
    over the lines with a #1 when it is all filled in. My customers that I have sent elsewhere because I didn't have
    time to work any more cakes in are so disappointed by other cakes as they usually do airbrushing and they are
    used to my way of doing it which is very much different. You could not go wrong with Kopyrite!!!

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Cake Design Projectors
    Date: Sun Mar 22 17:13:03 1998
    Message:
    If it were me...I'd get the most expensive one...knowing what I know now. We own the lesser one. It has only
    ONE photo bulb. This works fine if you can get the room dark enough. The good one has 2 photo bulbs and
    you can use it anytime in light or darkness.

    There is also the Projectoscope...has one regular bulb $60.00

    All are listed on my web site under AIRBRUSH
    They ARE expensive...I have added how to make stencils you want to transfer. That won't cost you anything.
    Dolores

Author: Doris
    Subject: The Projectoscope
    Date: Sun Mar 22 18:09:20 1998
    Message:
    Is this one worth investing in? I only do about 5-6 cakes a month that require drawing a design and, if it's
    worth it, this would be an easy investment. There's no problem with getting the room dark; my kitchen has
    only one small window and I can close the blinds and make it as dark as night. What do you think?

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: The Projectoscope
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:32:05 1998
    Message:
    I vote that it isn't worth it to you yet. DO check out my stencil page. It explains in full detail on how to get a
    picture onto a cake without the gadgets. Takes about 5 minutes to make a stencil from wax paper. If you do a
    lot of one certain picture, you'll want to make permenant stencils. (They make more defined lines than it
    would to just draw lines on with the airbrush.) So, you'll want stencils regardless of whether you have the koy
    kake projector.

Author: sharon ruffner
    Subject: castle cake
    Date: Sat Mar 21 06:34:32 1998
    Message:
    Hi Does anyone have a good plan for a castle
    cake? I'm getting married in June and we're trying to find
    just the right castle cake. (My theme is castles) My cake baker doesn't have
    web access, so I thought maybe I could help my checking
    out some web sites, and I found this one. Any help would
    be great. Everyone involved with cake decorating seems
    so friendly and really interested in sharing recipes! Thanks
    for any responses.

Author: Sharon
    Subject: Castle cake
    Date: Sat Mar 21 21:45:40 1998
    Message:
    Hi Sharon,
    Welcome to the board. There is a cake decorator's magazine called Mailbox News. The Sept/Oct 1996 issue
    has a beautiful castle wedding cake on the cover. (directions inside) You can order back issues for $2.50 +
    S&H. Write to: Mailbox News
    P.O. Box 16208
    Minneapolis, MN 55416-0208

    Sorry, If I had fax capabilities, I'd just send you the pic. Maybe someone else on the board could. I believe I
    have seen a castle cake in one of the older Wilton Cake Decorating books. Will have to do some research on
    that.    Good luck,    Valerie

Author: kelly
    Subject: re:castle cake
    Date: Sun Mar 22 00:17:49 1998
    Message:
    hi sharon, i saw one in the 97 wilton year book but probably is not what you are looking for although it could
    provide some helpful hints, i have no means of sending it to you but i am sure you can find the pic. in the year
    book, sorry i couldn't be of more help. congrats on the wedding and good luck with the cake, kelly

Author: Lisa
    Subject: Castle Cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 10:32:37 1998
    Message:
    On the cover of the book "Wilton Weddings" there is a castle cake on the cover. It serves over 600 but you
    can have your baker size it down. It is a quite a cake!! I'm sure you can order from this web site because she
    carries most Wilton items or get the 1998 yearbook from her and you can order it from that. Hope this helps.

Author: Bruce
    Subject: Fondant Flavors
    Date: Thu Mar 19 23:17:40 1998
    Message:
    What are the "typical" flavors for fondant? I've heard of mixing oils to get a new flavor? What are good
    combinations to try? Thanks :-)

Author: Vikki
    Subject: fondant flavour
    Date: Fri Mar 20 17:04:50 1998
    Message:
    Bruce:
    I normally use clear almond flavouring. I've wanted to try the oils and will have a chance to this weekend. I'll
    let you know how it turns out.    Vikki

Author: RobinG
    Subject: Fondant Flavors
    Date: Fri Mar 20 19:22:51 1998
    Message:
    I like to match the color fondant to the flavor, like yellow could be lemon or banana; or pink could be cherry,
    strawberry, raspberry, cotton candy; I like to use coconut in plain white w/pineapple filling in the cake.
    Remember, when using flavoring oils, they are much more concentrated that extracts, so use very sparingly or
    your flavor will be bitter. Use by the drops, not teaspoons.....RobinG

Author: Nicole V.
    Subject: fondant
    Date: Thu Mar 19 14:02:35 1998
    Message:
    I'm trying to make a cake covered in fondant, then placing fondant shapes on top of the original fondant layer.
    I'm new to using fondant- what's the best way to get the shapes to stick on? a dab of buttercream?- or should I
    moisten the backs of the fondant shapes?    Thanks-    Nicole V.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: fondant
    Date: Thu Mar 19 17:46:11 1998
    Message:
    I just put some water on the backs and they stick fine. Don't put much on...melts the icing if you do.

Author: Kimberly Jackson
    Subject: cake creation
    Date: Thu Mar 19 12:02:58 1998
    Message:
    Help! My coworker has been offered a new job and my office is planning a going-away luncheon in his honor.
    I've been asked to do the cake. We expect around 25 to 40 people to attend. His favorite is red velvet w/
    cream cheese frosting. I was thinking of having his picture with "the dancing baby" since he loves that baby.
    Does anyone have a good recipe for 1. red velvet cake (not too heavy), 2. a good cream cheese frosting that
    can withstand some heat (it will probably be warm by then) and 3. how do I transpose a picture onto a cake. I
    saw an advertisement for something like that on the web but was hoping to learn to do it myself or maybe have
    it done locally. I live in the Washington, D.C. metro area. Any and all thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
    The luncheon is scheduled for Friday, May 15.

Author: Diana
    Subject: location of recipes
    Date: Thu Mar 19 17:50:11 1998
    Message:
    Hi I love that dancing baby too. you can find 3 red velvet recipes at www.sugarcraft.com/arc4.htm
    you won't have to scroll down very far. The cream cheese recipe that can withstand heat is at
    www.sugarcraft.com/recipes/recipes.htm

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: cake creation
    Date: Thu Mar 19 17:53:48 1998
    Message:

    1. red velvet cake (not too heavy)
    My cake is light and SO easy:
    1 yellow cake mix (I like the one with the stick of butter in it
    use water, eggs and oil as directed on the box.
    ADD:
    2 TB Hershey's Powdered cocoa
    Red food coloring to desired color

    This cake tastes great without the work.

    2. a good cream cheese frosting
    We buy ready-made cream cheese icing. It IS good (and we do carry it if you'd like this). It WILL withstand
    the heat and is wonderful to dec. with.

    3. how do I transpose a picture onto a cake.
    I just gave all that to Isabel. Look through the archives. Its in the next to last one I'm almost sure. Otherwise, I
    have that on my web page as a zip file you can download. It is easy and won't cost you any money : )
    Dolores

You sure you can make it from scratch. Earlene Moore has shared her cr cheese icing recipe on her web site...go
    to my LINKS page and you can get to hers from there.

    Our pre-made cream cheese icing works great. It is $2.59 per 1 lb. We think you'd need 3 lb. none will be
    wasted! They eat it with a spoon around here LOL...and we have LOTS of icing - you'd think they'd be tired of
    it.

Author: Nannette
    Subject: cake creation
    Date: Sun Mar 22 22:12:32 1998
    Message:

    1> I think there are 3 or 4 recipes in the archives (I know people have already sent you there), but I tried the
    red velvet cake recipe in the archives where you add instant chocolate pudding and buttermilk. It was great!

    2> I've also made cream cheese icing by adding commercial canned cream cheese frosting to my buttercream;
    that doesn't spoil like a true cream cheese frosting.

    3> The Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe in Arlington (VA) has one of the machines where you can transfer a picture
    onto a cake, but you'll have to call them to see if they will just sell you the photo (i.e., without it being on their
    cake). I also just saw an advertisement for a place that I think was called Apollo Photo (in Merrifield, VA?)
    that will produce edible images from your picture. Don't know how expensive either is.

    There are a couple of cake clubs in the Washington DC area (one meets in Annandale, VA; the other in Camp
    Springs, MD). You might consider joining one of those to be able to meet with other decorators and get some
    pattern transfer ideas. Feel free to e-mail me back for specifics on club meetings.

Author: Kimberly Jackson
    Subject: cake creation
    Date: Mon Mar 23 08:35:46 1998
    Message:

    Nannette, Thank you so much. The information you provided is most helpful. I tried the boxed yellow cake
    recipe and added 2 Tbls of cocoa and the red food coloring. It turned out great (looking). My family can't wait
    to taste it. I think I'll try the scratch recipe also, just to compare the difference (if any). Re adding cream
    cheese frosting to buttercream: do I blend it with a mixer or stir by hand. Don't want to overbeat since both
    will already be complete. I will definately call the the two shops in Northern VA today. Yes, I would love to
    join the cake club in Camp Springs, MD. Although, I live in Silver Spring, MD, it shouldn't take me long to
    get there. When and where do they meet? Any fees? Are you the contact person or should I call someone else?
    Any information on this would be great! Again, thanks for all your helpful suggestions.

Author: Nannette
    Subject: cake creation
    Date: Mon Mar 23 22:42:30 1998
    Message:
    I add the cream cheese frosting after my buttercream is made, and beat together with a mixer 'til they're well
    blended.
    The Greater Washington Area Cake Club meets on the 2nd Monday of each month from 7-9 pm. I'll e-mail you
    more details separately.

Author: Sly
    Subject: DC cake events
    Date: Tue Mar 24 08:15:54 1998
    Message:
    Although the meetings for the Northern Virginia group (Cake & Sugar Artists of No. Va.) may be further than
    you wish to drive, we do have lots of inforation about our club (as well as a listing of upcoming events and
    classes that are going on in the DC area) on our webpage. And since I'm a member of both clubs, I can list
    events for both clubs as well.
    http://www.wizard.net/~casanova/

Author: Thearesa
    Subject: cut up cakes
    Date: Thu Mar 19 10:36:38 1998
    Message:
    I am looking for cut up cakes.
    I need one for a bear.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: cut up cakes
    Date: Sun Mar 22 10:27:53 1998
    Message:
    Bear...about as easy as it gets...
    Use 2 round cakes...8" (maybe a 8" head and 9" body) or whatever size you need. Put end for end - one for the
    head, the other for the body.
    Use cupcakes for the ears, hands and feet.
    Check your Wilton Yearbook for ideas on decorating like the bear cake pan.

Author: Maurice Guilfoil
    Subject: gum paste too dry
    Date: Wed Mar 18 20:49:59 1998
    Message:
    This afternoon I was making my first gum paste roses. Things were moving along well; but when I worked
    with some pale, pink gum paste, the edges of the petals seemed to crack or fray; the paste seemed to be too
    dry. What can one do to save the paste and continue on with the making of the rose petals?    Maurice

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: gum paste too dry
    Date: Wed Mar 18 23:04:18 1998
    Message:
    hi; first off let me say i *love* the look of roses w/frayed/cracked edges! :)
    to re-hydrate gum paste just dip the paste into a bit of fresh egg white or water and carefully work it in until it
    is no longer sticky. sometimes you may need just a bit more crisco, too to keep the ratio right.     lynne
 

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: gum paste too dry
    Date: Sun Mar 22 10:25:33 1998
    Message:
    Are you using confectioners' sugar to keep the gp from sticking to your hands? Instead try using Crisco
    (shortening). Flower petals get a very dry cracky look using conf. sugar where this doesn't happen with
    shortening. USE VERY LITTLE shortening. It isn't so bad if only the edges look frayed, but when the centers
    of petals look that way it isn't so nice, right? Dolores

Author: Maurice Guilfoil
    Subject: gum paste too dry
    Date: Sun Mar 22 18:27:27 1998
    Message:
    Dolores,
    Yes, I have been using a little dab of Crisco on my hands and cutting board. I, also, learned a little trick from
    Carlina Espinosa who lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She makes some of the most beautiful gum paste flowers
    that I have ever seen. They look so real that you want to smell them.
    She told me to run my hands under the cold water tap; then blot dry them on a soft towel; work what small
    amount of water that -it must be a very small amount- is left into the paste as you knead it. I do this now if the
    paste feels too dry. This works well. I sure am grateful for all the good ideas that more experienced
    decorators share with me.    Maurice

Author: Nicole
    Subject: air bubbles in buttercream
    Date: Wed Mar 18 17:48:50 1998
    Message:
    Hi all!
    A while back, I asked for advice on icing a cake smooth and received some great feedback. I just finished
    icing a birthday cake for a family member, and I used the quick icer tip as suggested. It certainly made the
    icing go on a LOT faster, which was great, but I had a heck of a time because my buttercream had huge air
    bubbles in it that were almost impossible to smooth out!! I mixed the buttercream with my hand mixer -- was
    this the culprit??

    Also, I thinned the buttercream with light corn syrup first, but is it possible that I didn't thin it enough (i.e.,
    could that have been part of my problem with getting it smooth?).

    I used to ice my cakes using canned frosting from the grocery store and I could get them pretty smooth, but
    now that I've been decorating for about a year now, I want to start making my icing from scratch. I just can't
    seem to get the buttercream right!! Help!! (BTW I use Wilton's recipe for buttercream).
    Thanks in advance for any suggestions!!

Author: Amy
    Subject: re: airholes in buttercream
    Date: Wed Mar 18 18:50:45 1998
    Message:
    Nicole,
    After you've mixed your buttercream with your mixer, try stirring in a figure 8 motion with a wooden spoon or
    spatula and see if that helps.    Amy

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: air bubbles in buttercream
    Date: Wed Mar 18 22:58:42 1998
    Message:
    hi nicole; glad to hear our advice has helped you:)
    sounds to me like you are overbeating your icing. how long are you beating it? much over 3 minutes is
    probably too much.
    another thing that should help is to find a bowl/container to beat in that is deep but narrow. what we want to
    accomplish is having the beaters *completely* covered w/icing. this will definately give you a smoother
    icing.

    yes, it is possible you did not get the icing thin enough. next time try another *teaspoon* of liquid. keep tract
    of how much you are adding until you find just the right amount that makes the icing perfect for you.
    since we all live in different parts of the country (world?) our weather is different and that definitely effects
    everything we do! :)    lynne

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: air bubbles in buttercream
    Date: Sun Mar 22 10:42:12 1998
    Message:
    To me your problem is very simple...I learned a long time ago that if I made a double-batch of icing )so that it
    completely covered my beaters) I had smooth icing.
    Don't beat at too high of speed either. Adding more liquid at the end of mixing also illiminates more airholes.
    I doubt it is the recipe, just the way you mix.
    YES you can stir out a lot of the airholes with a spatula after mixing.

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Gumdrop flowers
    Date: Wed Mar 18 15:47:47 1998
    Message:
    Hi Gang,
    I just wanted to say that the directions for making gumdrop flowers in this month's American Cake Decorating
    Magazine are very good. I especially liked the part about rolling out the gumdrops in a cookie sheet of
    granulated sugar. This really works! My flowers came out so cute. I took the idea a little farther and used my
    gumpaste cutters to make some other flowers such as an Arum lilly and I used the leaf cutter instead of doing
    the leaves freehand. I also did daisies by using 2 white gumdrops flattened fairly thin into 2 circles and then
    cut the edges with a straight, small, nail scissors into "fringy" petals. I put one on top of the other for fullness
    and used just the top 1/3 of a small yellow gumdrop for the center. Using the small rolling pin that comes with
    the Wilton gumpaste kit works great for rolling out the gumdrops after you flatten them a bit with your hands.

    I love this idea because there is very little mess and you can stop and start on a dime (so to speak) which is
    important when you have a 5 1/2 month old baby! It makes very "homey" yet professional looking decorations
    great for a spring birthday or Mother's Day cake. Fun!! Has anyone else tried this? Renee

Author: Valerie
    Subject: gumdrop flowers
    Date: Thu Mar 19 09:50:11 1998
    Message:
    Hi Renee,
    No, I have not tried that before. What a fun idea!! I have the gum paste tools and will have to try that. Always
    looking for something new to learn. Thanks for the posting.    Valerie

Author: Susanna
    Subject: and marshmallows too!
    Date: Mon Mar 23 16:45:25 1998
    Message:
    Around Easter time marshmallows come in pastel colors. Lightly oil (smear on, wipe off with paper towel) a
    pair of kitchen shears. Cut across the marshmallow (as if you were making torte layers on a round cake) - you
    can get three or four slices from one candy. The slices will crimp into two end points with a bowed-out
    middle and look like flower petals. Assemble into daisies with a gumdrop center (cut the gumdrop down if
    it's too tall...or make a multi-layered flower by sticking the center points into a dab of icing. You can use the
    white marshmallows with yellow-gumdrop centers for daisies all year 'round.

Author: Mary
    Subject: ballerina cake
    Date: Wed Mar 18 15:12:03 1998
    Message:
    I have spoken with a potential customer about a ballerina birthday cake. She wants a shaped cake but I don't
    want to buy a character pan at this time. I have the Wilton Kitty, Elmo and Pooh bear. Does anyone have an
    idea of how to turn one of these into a shaped ballerina type cake"

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Re: Ballerina cake
    Date: Thu Mar 19 08:53:08 1998
    Message:
    I don't know how to turn your Wilton pans into ballerinas but once I saw a project that I have always wanted
    to try but never had the opportunity. It was a pair of ballet slippers carved out of 2 loaf pans. The basic shape
    of the slippers were carved from each 8 1/2 by 5 loafs of pound-type cake. I'm not artist, but this shape seems
    easy enough to do. Round off the front and back of the cakes and corners and carve a concave section in the
    top. These cakes were then covered in buttercream and a lovely peachy-pink fondant. Two peach satin
    ribbons were attached to each "slipper" to complete the look of toe shoe ties. If you didn't want to mess with
    fondant, you could probably smooth ice them with buttercream or use the star fill in meathod that you would
    use on a character cake. Hope this helps. Renee.
    P.S.
    Some day I'm going to make this cake!

Author: Mary
    Subject: Ballet slippers
    Date: Thu Mar 19 14:18:26 1998
    Message:
    I can just picture the slippers how pretty! I will ask the potential customer about this. What a great idea,
    thanks!

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Re: ballet slippers
    Date: Thu Mar 19 16:10:30 1998
    Message:
    Glad you enjoyed the idea. Please let us know how they turn out! Good luck, Renee

Author: Veronica
    Subject: HELP!!!
    Date: Wed Mar 18 14:07:58 1998
    Message:
    Hello,
    My boyfriend's birthday is coming up three and a half weeks away and I'm trying to think of a decoration to
    put on his cake. I am 17 and have taken decorating class for about six months. So, I have practice doing edible
    images, character pans, any-type of flowers. His favorite is Florida Gators but he also like red roses. What
    should I do that isn't too feminine looking ? Thank you Everybody :)    Veronica

Author: Nicole
    Subject: Not too feminine
    Date: Wed Mar 18 18:39:32 1998
    Message:
    Hi, Veronica
    I too, am fairly new at decorating, but I might have a suggestion for you. I had to make a cake for Boss' Day
    and my boss is a man. I was also concerned about making something that was pretty, but at the same time, not
    feminine. Here's what I ended up doing:

    I made a colorful balloon bouquet using round tip number 12. I made each balloon a different color (red, blue,
    and yellow) and then I used black icing and round tip #2 for strings off of each balloon. I just did a basic shell
    border across the top and at the base of the cake I did larger shells (in white) but made a little "zig-zag" with
    round tip #3 in blue over each shell. Then I wrote "Happy Boss' Day!" in Blue icing on the top next to the
    balloon bouquet. It wasn't very extravagant, but I think it turned out nicely.

    I hope this helps and maybe others will give you some other good suggestions too!!    Good luck!  Nicole

Author: Anonymous
    Subject: Re: Not too feminine
    Date: Thu Mar 19 10:51:07 1998
    Message:
    You could make a stencil from a Florida Gators shirt or poster and then enlarge or make smaller so that it will
    fit your cake. I use the frozen buttercream transfer method to get the pictures on the cake. One tip is after you
    are done with tracing the picture and filling it all in, go over it again so that the icing is fairly thick and then
    when it is frozen it will be a little easier to get onto the cake because of the extra thickness. It won't break so
    easily and it will take a little longer for it to start thawing out.

Author: Jane
    Subject: Royal Icing 3-D Bow
    Date: Wed Mar 18 23:37:45 1998
    Message:

    Here is one of my favorite designs for a man's cake. I found this in one of Colette Peters' books which I
    checked out from the library.

    Using royal icing on a parchment paper covered cookie sheet, pipe at least 24 loops just like loops in a bow
    that you'd stick on a present. You can use either a rose tip (like 104) or a star tip (like 18). Start at the base of
    the loop and pipe a rather narrow loop approximately 2" long, returning to the base. You can make these all
    one color or multi-colored. Let them dry overnight.

    Using buttercream, draw the ribbons on your present cake, crossing wherever you want to place the bow. On
    a rectangular sheet cake or even a round cake, I usually place the bow on the upper left hand section of the
    cake. Then where your ribbons cross and the bow will be placed, pipe a small circle of your royal icing and
    start laying your loops in it going around in a circle, usually about 8 loops. Make another circle of royal icing
    on top of this and lay another row of loops around. Keep doing this until you are basically standing the final
    loops upright, creating a beautiful 3-D bow. You can fill in any holes with additional loops, just putting a
    little royal icing at the base of the loop before you place it in the bow.

    This is really a gorgeous "present" cake and even with drop flowers strewn around, still looks masculine.
    You can write your message on the large area left open on the lower right hand section of the cake. This is
    really, really easy to do and, for me, the hardest part is waiting for the loops to dry!

Author: Maurice Guilfoil
    Subject: character cakes -tips to use?
    Date: Mon Mar 16 23:09:24 1998
    Message:

    For outlining a character cake, I was taught to use tip 3; there are two very good cake decorators in my city
    who use tip 4 and tip 5. What tip do you use to outline novelty or character cakes?

Author: Debi
    Subject: Re: character cakes -tips to use?
    Date: Tue Mar 17 10:50:03 1998
    Message:

    I have used all three tips on outlining. It realy depends on which one feels confortable to you decorating. How
    does it look to you. Experiment with them and make up your own mind. I love to use different tips to get
    different looks just so that even though I do the same cake style it doesn'e look exactly the same each time.
    Debi

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: character cakes -tips to use?
    Date: Tue Mar 17 15:00:17 1998
    Message:
    What tip to use for outlining depends mostly on what tip you plan to use for the stars. If you pipe the stars with
    a tip 16, then perhaps a tip 3 would be good for the outlining. But if you plan to pipe the stars with tip 18-19
    or larger, then I would use tip 5....so the outlining won't get covered up...nothing like doing the whole outline
    over! No fun there.

Author: mike Mccarty
    Subject: fondant vs gumpaste
    Date: Mon Mar 16 19:19:50 1998
    Message:
    I've been asked to make a cake for a restraunt with a tartan or plaid design. Should I use fondant. I'll need to
    divide it, colour it, cut and assemble it into a tartan design. How do I get the pattern to stay together and is this
    even possible. Thank You; Mike

Author: Maurice Guilfoil
    Subject: fondant versus gumpaste
    Date: Mon Mar 16 23:02:12 1998
    Message:
    Mike,
    This sounds like a great project; I need to know how you decide to decorate for future reference. Please share
    some of your results with me.    Maurice mauryg@voyager.net
 

Author: Vikki
    Subject: gumpaste/fondant
    Date: Thu Mar 19 10:24:10 1998
    Message:
    Mike:
    Sounds like a wonderful project... I've been trying to figure out the same.. How to not make it look like a
    basketweave. I would love to see and hear your results with this decoration. I have been using the gumpaset to
    do this. Sorry I know I didn't really answer your question.    Thank You    Vikki

Author: Susanna
    Subject: plaid
    Date: Mon Mar 23 16:23:16 1998
    Message:

    Interesting problem! I've not tested this theory, but here are my first thoughts:

    In order to avoid the "basketweave" look, try planning your design full size on graph paper first. Decide
    which  "lines" (1/4 to 1/2 inch wide) you want to be continuous and which can "stop" at intersections. Keep the
    square or rectangular pieces to one or two standard sizes. Then color and roll out your fondant. I'd stick to no
    more than three colors for simplicity. (Unless you've been given a specific tartan to duplicate, of course.) Cut
    out the EXACT SIZE pieces from your paper template and use them as patterns to cut your colored fondant
    pieces (a metal ruler and Xacto-knife will be invaluable). Fit the pieces together like a jissaw puzzle on the
    surface of the cake. Better yet, fit them together on a piece of parchment or wax paper (dab of frosting to
    adhere) so you can push the pieces together firmly and make sure the seams are abutted properly. Add a layer
    of buttercream to keep the finished panel from sliding or buckling as you place it on the cake...you might even
    be able to "drape" it using this method, making it look like a tartan "tossed" upon a surface. (Remove any
    paper that shows.) Add some purple and green thistles (traditional highland flower) to the corners (royal icing
    done ahead and dried), stuck on with dab of royal icing).

Author: Julie
    Subject: icing a cake with whip cream
    Date: Mon Mar 16 13:48:13 1998
    Message:
    Help - I have just received a request for a cake done in whipped cream instead of butter cream! I found a
    receipe (2 cups heavy cream, 1/4 powder sugar, 1/8 tsp salt, 1 tsp vanilla). I've never done this - Can I pipe a
    boarder? What about flowers? I noticed The Cake Bible has a receipe with gelatin in it? Has anyone tried
    that?    Any suggestions would be great! I don't know, maybe I should just say "sorry"   Thanks,     Julie

Author: Debi
    Subject: Re: icing a cake with whip cream
    Date: Mon Mar 16 15:46:03 1998
    Message:
    What kind of whip cream does the customer want? If its like bettercreme or pastry pride all you need to do is
    whip it up and use it like buttercream. But if you want to use what Wilton calls a Special Buttercream that is
    made like buttercream but with heavy cream it will still taste like buttercream (kind of).

    Either way you can decorate with either mentioned above and still have a beautiful cake. Also with the
    bettercreme but it is lighter to use and the taste is different more like whipped cream than buttercream.
    Lots of luck!    Debi

Author: Julie
    Subject: bettercreme/pastry pride
    Date: Mon Mar 16 16:09:54 1998
    Message:
    What is bettercreme & pastry pride? Can I get them at the grocery store? I need this cake for Thursday, don't
    really have time to order anything. Do they have to be refrigerated?

    I'm looking in my wilton yearbook and I see a Stabilzed Whipped Cream (looks the same as the one in the
    cake bible). It has unflavored gelatin in it - could this be the one you think tastes like buttercream?

Author: Debi
    Subject: Re: bettercreme/pastry pride
    Date: Tue Mar 17 10:44:20 1998
    Message:
    I have used the stabilized whipped cream only on pies and such not on cakes. I have gotten the bettercreme at
    my local cake supply store. It comes frozen sort of and all you need to do is whip it up on high until it is stiff
    enough for you but not to stiff or you'll hurt you hands.

    Hopefully you can find either Pastry Pride or Bettercreme at the cake supply store. I found mine in my yellow
    pages and called them to see if they had any for sale.    Hope this will help you out.    Debi

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: icing a cake with whip cream
    Date: Tue Mar 17 12:45:41 1998
    Message:
    hope by now you haven't completely paniced and told your customer 'no' :)
    i didn't know about this new board until this morn:( we had a bookmark right into the 1st pg of the 'old' board
    and didn't know of any changes.
    ok.........rich's bettercream is one brand. frostin pride (& pastry pride) are another brand. there are a couple of
    others, but i'm not sure what they are.
    don't know where you live. do you have 'smart and final' stores in your area? you can buy qts. for about $3-4
    ea or it can be bought in gal sizes too. one qt is more than enough to ice and decorate a 1/2 sheet. it must
    remain fz so it cannot be shipped (dolores carries it). even tho it is a few cents more i highly recomment using
    the frostin pride rather than pastry pride. i have not used bettercream, but understand it is equal to frostin
    pride (f.p.) this stuff should be whipped at a medium speed until you hear it 'slap' in the bowl......but *as
    soon!* as you do hear that sound you must! stop whipping or it will be overwhipped. this takes about 5-8
    minutes depending on the mixer you are using. these non-dairy whipped kremes are slightly sweetened and
    have vanilla already added.
    stablized whipped cream is usable also. but you could also just whip up whipping cream w/a spoonful of
    pwdr sugar, too.
    each one needs to be whipped until it stands in peaks, but be careful not to overwhip. good luck and let us
    know how everything goes.    lynne

Author: MaraTLee
    Subject: Re: using whipped cream as icing
    Date: Tue Mar 17 16:23:32 1998
    Message:
    Dear Julie:
    Using the Knox unflavored gelatine stabailzes the whipped cream. you will find that the whipped cream is a
    little hard to work with , as it will not let you do any intricate piping. So take advantage of the Yumminess of
    whipped cream and use your larger tips to make your borders. It also doesn't take the colors in an intense hue,
    staying very pastel. If you need to decorate your cake with an intricate design I would draw it on rice paper
    and place it on the cake. You only need to add powdered sugar to taste and adding a bit of vanilla (or any
    extract) just makes it yummier. But, remember, any cake iced in whipped cream must stay in the refrigerator
    and cannot be out for display longer than 20 or 30 minutes before the icing takes to sliding off the cake (most
    times)-(-make your borders on top of your surface, do not let them hang down the side or they will be the first
    ones sliding off the cake. ) DO NOT OVERWHIP or you will begin to make butter---LOL

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: whipped cream
    Date: Tue Mar 17 17:58:22 1998
    Message:
    I did my first cake with whipped cream about a month ago. It isn't too difficult, but it does have its limitations.
    I'll pass along what I learned in the process. I used the old Wilton recipe, stabilized with gelatin: soften 1 tsp
    gelatin in 4-6 tsp water, then dissolve over very low heat. Allow to cool to room temp while you beat the
    cream. Beat 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 1/4-1/2 C powdered sugar, and 1/2 tsp vanilla in chilled bowl.
    When it starts to stiffen, beat in the gelatin until stiff. The gelatin will keep the whipped cream from
    separating. Stabilized with gelatin, it can last a couple of days or more in the fridge, and at least an hour at
    room temp. After 24 hours, the cream starts to dehydrate, and will shrink and get tougher, but is still pretty
    good for 48 hours. You can color pastels, but darker colors will bleed very quickly. I used it to do shell,
    bead, and ruffled borders, to figure-pipe balloons and clouds, and to write the message. One warning, DO
    NOT use buttercream with real dairy whipped cream. Something in the buttercream causes the whipped cream
    to separate and you will end up with a bleeding, oozing mess! I haven't tried to make flowers, but I know
    people have before. The decorations will not be as fine and delicate as with regular icing, and you should
    stick to things that can be done quickly. You don't want to keep the iced cake at room temp any longer than
    necessary, and the heat of your hand will start melting the whipped cream while you are piping.

Author: Kimberly Jackson
    Subject: Decorating/Icing
    Date: Mon Mar 16 13:09:08 1998
    Message:
    How do I make buttercreme icing thicker without further sweetening it by the addition of powdered sugar

Author: Debi
    Subject: Re: Decorating/Icing
    Date: Mon Mar 16 15:50:09 1998
    Message:
    I have always started with the thicker icing and thinned as I needed. If its the sweetnes that is the problem use
    some popcorn salt to cut the sweet taste. It can be added with out the crunchy taste that other salt can add. The
    only way that I know to thicken icing is with powdered sugar. Sorry.    Debi

Author: Kimberly
    Subject: Decorating/icing
    Date: Tue Mar 17 10:01:25 1998
    Message:
    Thanks Debi,    I'll give the popcorn salt a try..

Author: MaraTLee
    Subject: Re: making stiffer buttercream
    Date: Tue Mar 17 16:31:34 1998
    Message:
    Dear Kim:
    When you make your next batch of icing you could reduce the amount of liquids that you are using. (Are you
    using the Wilton icing recipe?) and make sure that any extracts that you are using are part of your liquid
    mesures.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEED AN IDEA FOR A CAKE CREATION?

Author: Julie
    Subject: skateboard
    Date: Fri Mar 27 14:01:30 1998
    Message:
    Someone just requested a skateboard cake - any ideas? Not real big (2 box). The part that is really stumping
    me is they want it filled - I don't know how to make it not look so thick.
    Thanks in advance for any suggestions,    Julie

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: skateboard
    Date: Sat Mar 28 00:22:39 1998
    Message:
    i have directions on making one at the shop. when do you need this? i'll try to remember tomorrow to get those
    directions for you.    lynne

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Re: Re: skateboard
    Date: Sat Mar 28 19:23:30 1998
    Message:
    i'm sorry julie, i didn't get to spend any time at the shop today:( was offered a ride home after my meeting.
    hubby baby-sat the shop. i was going to finish out the open hours after the meeting, but it ran longer and she
    offered to take us both home.

    from memory: they made a jelly-roll type cake. seems to me it was cut at one end kind of rounded up -- like a
    spoiler on a car(?). used a piece of styro under the cake board fairly small, just wide enough to hold the cake
    steady -- can be as long as the cake but keep it narrow so it is not seen.
    as i mentioned before, donuts were used for rollers. can be decorated/iced any color. keep it simple. i think it
    was airbrushed pink w/just a couple of colored lines piped as decoration. and the piped message.
    neighbor just stopped by for our walk. talk to you later.

let me know when you need this.....i have direction at the shop i'll try to remember to bring them home
    tomorrow.

    i do remember they use donuts for wheels :)    lynne

Author: Michael D. Follis
    Subject: Rennaissance Wedding Cakes
    Date: Wed Mar 25 13:51:07 1998
    Message:
    I have been commissioned to bake and decorate a wedding cake on July 4th of this year. My problem is this.
    The theme for the wedding is the Rennaissance Era. Can anybody help me out in determining what a
    Rennaissance Wedding Cake should look like. I have researched the library and have come up with only
    references to fruit filled pastries being served at the wedding feasts. If anyone knows anything, I would
    appreciate it very much. I can probably create the appropriate decorations required, if I knew what they were.
    Pictures of a Rennaissance Wedding Cake would be extremely helpful.    Thanks for listening to my delema.
    Michael

Author: Jeffery Arnett
    Subject: Perhaps an idea
    Date: Wed Mar 25 21:50:52 1998
    Message:
    I have never been asked to make such as cake, but if so, I would make one that relied more on architecture
    than floral trim.
    I would decorate the cake with the Baroque-type gum paste medallion and scrolls [call ROSEMARY
    WATSON and get her catalog...she has many such gumpaste molds
    1-800-203-0629. On pages 14 and 15 of her catalog are a couple of sampe cakes decorated with these type
    decorations].    Hope this helps a little.    Jeff

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: Rennaissance cake
    Date: Wed Mar 25 22:20:19 1998
    Message:
    I don't think they had wedding cakes during the Renaissance era, at least nothing like what we have today. I
    think your best bet would be to make up your own style of decorations inspired by the architecture, clothing,
    and jewelry of the times. Somehow incorporate and adapt those designs in icing; you should have an easier
    time finding out about those types of things. Also, you could make the bride and groom out of gumpaste and
    dress them in period clothes. I just had another thought, didn't the singer Sting have a period style wedding?
    Maybe you could find some pictures from his wedding in back issues of People that might show his cake; I
    can't remember when it was, but its been several years. Good Luck!

Author: Michael D. Follis
    Subject: Res[ponse to Rennaissance Cake
    Date: Wed Mar 25 23:57:58 1998
    Message:
    Jennifer:
    Thanks for your help in my quest for information pertaining to a Rennaissance cake design. I will search the
    People Magazine Web Site and see if I can find the article you mentioned.
    Again thanks for your help.    Michael

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Rennaissance Wedding Cakes
    Date: Thu Mar 26 02:09:43 1998
    Message:
    like the others i myself have not had the oportunity to make such a cake, but i have seen several ideas
    presented .
    it does depend on what the couple want. any chance you can talk further w/them? what are they looking for?

    one idea is a very old looking castle -- the one i saw was round w/lines indicating 'bricks' and some trailing
    vines. windows and doors also 'drawn' on via simple lines.

    the other one was made by a friend. she made gray brick walls out of colorflow. these were about the size and
    shape of a 1/2 sheet about 5" tall.
    inside these wall they put a simple round cake, as i remember just bordered.    hope that helps some.   lynne

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Re: Rennaissance Cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 08:51:10 1998
    Message:
    Hi Michael,
    My immediate thought was similar to Lynne's. A castle seems very appropriate. If this is a very elegant
    "grown-up" wedding, you may want to try to make it very stylized by using a basic Rennaissance style castle
    but incorporating elements of jewels and fabric design of the time. Boy, I'd love to see this finished product. I
    know it is down the line, but do let us know how it comes out for you. Renee

Author: Michael D. Follis
    Subject: Rennaissance Cake - Response
    Date: Thu Mar 26 20:43:18 1998
    Message:
    Renee:
    As I said in my response to Lynne, I believe the end result will be some sort of castle. Fortunately for me at
    this time, the bride to be is living with us until the wedding. So I will be bouncing off of her the ideas
    received from all of you.
    If the cake turns out to be a castle, I will take a picture of it and scan it into my computer and put it on the
    bulletin board for all to see.    Thanks for your input to my problem.    Michael

Author: Michael D. Follis
    Subject: Rennaissance Wedding Cake Response
    Date: Thu Mar 26 20:32:36 1998
    Message:
    Lynne:
    Fortunately for me, the bride to be is currently living with my wife and I until the wedding. So, I will be
    showing her all of the responses that have been provided and see what she thinks about how to decorate her
    wedding cake. Your ideas sound pretty good. I am sure she will entertain, in her mind, some sort of Castle
    looking cake with possibly the bride and groom standing at the top of a tower. Once I find out enough info
    about this type of Wedding cake, and a decision is made, I will keep all of you informed thru this bulletin
    board.    Thanks for your response and suggestions.    Michael

Author: Jane
    Subject: Another Idea
    Date: Fri Mar 27 22:29:07 1998
    Message:
    I was invited to a wedding a few years ago in California that was so Renaissance, the wedding party even
    wore period costumes. Unfortunately, since it was out of state for me, I was unable to attend and did not see
    their wedding cake. However, I gave them several Renaissance style picture frames for the shower and they
    were very excited that they fit in with their theme. They are pretty easy to find, I believe. The frames look like
    twisting and trailing ivy. You could do the cake to look like the fabric on the bride's gown and then trail ivy
    all over it, up, down and around the tiers. You could even incorporate a picture frame with the couple's
    picture into the setting, next to the cake or on a separator plate between tiers.

    Also, you might suggest hanging an old-fashioned mosquito netting above the cake and draping it down around
    the cake table. This would work indoors, but would also be great outdoors since you're doing a summer
    wedding. The billowing netting would play nicely into the Renaissance theme.  Good luck! Sounds like fun!!!

Author: Michael D. Follis
    Subject: Another Idea - Response to Jane
    Date: Sun Mar 29 16:26:20 1998
    Message:
    Jane:
    It's too bad you didn't get to go to the wedding. Would it be possible for you to tell me who the couple was
    and how to contact them. I could call them and/or e-mail them to see if they could send me a picture of the
    wedding cake or better yet have it sent via e-mail if it is within their capability (scanner) to produce a TIF or
    JPG file. I sure will take into consideration your recommendations for carrying the theme along with the
    brides colors and material to accent the cake.  Again, thanks for your response to my call for help.  Michael

Author: Dana
    Subject: Easter Cake
    Date: Fri Mar 20 16:32:28 1998
    Message:
    I have an advance order for an Easter cake that they want to be "elegant", but not religious, "Eastery", but not
    cartoonish (like bunnies hiding eggs). Any suggestions?

Author: Mary
    Subject: Easter cake
    Date: Fri Mar 20 16:55:29 1998
    Message:
    What about a rolled fondant covered cake with a molded egg on top. If you use something along the lines of an
    egg theme and use simple decorations and a smooth icing (pastel colors) it would be very elegant. You could
    also add some Royal icing Easter lilies with the pearl stamens which I think look very elegant. Whatever you
    decide it will be beautiful I'm sure! Good luck.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Easter Cake
    Date: Sun Mar 22 17:49:14 1998
    Message:
    a basket of lilies would be nice.
    you don't say how big this cake is to be. i have done &/or seen basket cakes in many different sizes/styles.
    oval cake: turned 'long ways' the rounded bottom the basket the top the handle..........fill in w/ flowers.
    round: basketweave the sides, fill top w/flowers.
    sheets: make a basket either piped right on cake or bake an additional shapped cake and ice it (for a 3-d
    effect) then put the flowers w/stems on the cake.
    shell (shapped pan): same as oval.    that's all i can think of right now

they have new ideas -- borders -- they are about 8" long by 1 1/2" wide -- strips for going around the sides of
    4" high cakes. they have one that is called floral....mostly pansies. it also comes as a frame and rounds -- for
    tops of cakes --frame for sheets and rounds for rounds (dahhhh!) :)
    the other design is ivy which will be great for grad cakes.
    then for easter there is a new lily design -- sort of a stained glass look.
    those are the ones that really impressed me. dolores can send you a pic if you want......i think :)

Author: Maurice Guilfoil
    Subject: golden anniversary cake
    Date: Wed Mar 18 21:05:37 1998
    Message:
    I have to decorate a small, layer cake for a golden anniversary. The budget for this cake is tight; any quick and
    good ideas that you may have used on a similar cake?

Author: kelly
    Subject: RE: golden anniversary cake
    Date: Wed Mar 18 21:45:00 1998
    Message:
    Hi Maurice, I was thinking maybe a small sheet cake with Wilton's Book pan on top, you could do delicate
    roses and greenery on one (page) and on the other write something like"happily ever after" or something along
    those lines and then a simple border on the sheet cake, wouldn't take much time and I really like the Book pan,
    it is very versitile(sp?) anyway hope this helps. have fun!! kelly oh yeah, p.s. yellow is my favorite color of
    rose, very nice.

Author: Susan
    Subject: Golden Idea
    Date: Wed Mar 18 22:31:35 1998
    Message:
    Hi,
    You could draw 2 wedding rings interlocked on the cake and make the frosting a golden color. Write fifty
    years of love or Golden Rings of a Life Time of Love. Or something corny like that. :) It is easy and fast. Your
    borders can be either the same color as the rings or same as the rest of the cake to make it look more elegant.
    Good luck with it.     Susan

Author: kelly
    Subject: fire man theme
    Date: Tue Mar 17 11:25:10 1998
    Message:
    i just got a request for a sheet cake with something to do with a fireman, she said she doesn't really want a
    firetruck because they had that for his grooms' cake. she just wants something to do with a fireman or around
    those lines, please help!! thank you

Author: mary
    Subject: firefighter cake
    Date: Tue Mar 17 12:03:19 1998

    Message:

    I don't know if you want something cute, but this is what popped into my head. I was thinking of a dalmation
    fire dog wearing a firefighter hat that is big on him and a little crooked, maybe thatwould be too childish. You
    could always do just the hat with a color flow piece for that part where the station number is written, maybe
    done to replicate his actual hat. Good luck.

Author: kelly
    Subject: fireman theme
    Date: Tue Mar 17 12:22:12 1998
    Message:
    Mary thank you for the help, now tell me how to make a hat? i don't have the doll form so i can't do it that way
    any ideas? i am really not very creative so i appreciate the help, thanks again, kelly

Author: Rebecca
    Subject: fireman cake
    Date: Tue Mar 17 13:27:41 1998
    Message:
    What popped into my head was a gum paste fire hydrant with a long, gum paste hose attached sitting on top of
    the cake.

Oh, I thought of something else - how about making the entire cake look like a replica of the fireman's hat -- or
    maybe a replica of his boots??

Author: Valerie
    Subject: fireman cake
    Date: Thu Mar 19 10:15:02 1998
    Message:
    Kelly,
    Just read your post. Several years ago, my husband was a fireman. For his birthday (celebrated at the station),
    I found a picture in a children's coloring book. It was a little boy dressed as a fireman. He was holding a
    hose, putting out a fire. I made the little boy holding the hose on the top of the cake. Regular top border. (shell,
    whatever) Then starting at the bottom border, I made flames leaping up all sides of the cake. It turned out real
    cute and was a big hit with all the guys.    Lots of luck,    Valerie
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WEDDING CAKE INFO:

Author: Amy
    Subject: wedding cake setup
    Date: Sun Mar 29 20:38:05 1998
    Message:
    I'm curious about setting up some wedding cakes I've seen. I saw one in an ACD mag. that has an inch, or so,
    of space between tiers with dropstring loops below each one and cascading flowers. I assume you'd have to
    make the loops at the reception site, but how? I couldn't imagine having to reach over the big table to make
    such small loops. And I've seen many elaborate setups and wondered the same thing.     Amy

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: wedding cake setup
    Date: Mon Mar 30 10:06:36 1998
    Message:
    Must not be this month's ACD?

    Yes, where stringwork hangs off the edge of a cake, it is added after the cake is set up at the rec. hall. I make
    the dropstrings with buttercream...med. consistency.

    And if the flowers cascade down over the separations, they also must be added there. One thing though,
    usually MOST of the flowers can be on and only the last few added at setup time.

Author: Geneva
    Subject: Wedding cake serving guide
    Date: Sat Mar 28 10:51:01 1998
    Message:

    Does anyone have a realistic wedding cake serving guide. I have used the WIlton guide over the years, but
    brides often find that tey really wanted a bigger slice of cake than the 1 x 2 x 4. I don't think they realize how
    samml this serving is without first seeing it.

    If anyone has a more realistic serving guide, I'd love to have it. Thanks.    Geneva

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Wedding cake serving guide
    Date: Sat Mar 28 11:48:56 1998
    Message:
    Hi Geneva,
    Try this...list the servings as "between 90-110" The LAST number being the actual servings calculation size.

    Then the people who want more will choose the smaller number. People who don't want so much cake (or
    leftovers), will choose the higher number. This has worked so well for me. I usually give them about 20-25
    servings difference in the range.

    In my album I have a label with each cake pict. listing the servings with the price - of each size I can make it
    in. I put an '*' in front of the size shown in the pict.

Author: Jane
    Subject: Champagne Flutes
    Date: Fri Mar 27 22:40:58 1998
    Message:

    I booked a wedding cake recently for Thanksgiving weekend and the bride had some terrific ideas for a
    beautiful holiday cake. One thing she suggested is to separate the middle and top tiers with tall pillars, place a
    mirror on the separator plate, then place the bride's and groom's tall crystal champagne flutes (filled and
    ready for toasting during the cake cutting) on the mirror between the tiers. Is this a safe idea? Has anyone
    heard of this being done before? I told her I'd simulate the setup and try it to see if it might be hazardous to be
    pulling filled glasses out from between the pillars, but what do you all think?

...............filled and ready for toasting ...

Author: Jeffery Arnett
    Subject: Champagne flute
    Date: Sat Mar 28 10:54:36 1998
    Message:
    As long as your cake is built on a solid foundation, I don;t see any problems with this. My only suggestion is
    that I think it would look better to have that large separation between the lower two tiers rather than the top
    two, but that, of course, is a matter of personal preference.

Author: Kelly
    Subject: Problems with layers rising
    Date: Fri Mar 20 14:06:58 1998
    Message:
    Hi, I just followed the large tier instructions for the 10 inch cake on the inside box of the yellow Duncan
    Hines Cake Mix. It said that one mix would be needed for each 10-inch layer. The cake seemed to have
    several cracks on the top of the cake and didn't seem above an inch tall on the sides. What could I have done
    wrong? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Ps. Is it dumb to attempt to flatten the layers with some
    weight and pressure instead of cutting the tops off and having crumbs?

Author: Joanna
    Subject: Re: Didn't Rise
    Date: Fri Mar 20 20:21:02 1998
    Message:
    Hi Kelly,
    It sounds like your problem could be one of two things (or I guess both is possible). A top with cracks on it
    usually means that your oven temperature is too hot, or you over mixed the batter. Poor volume (not rising)
    can mean that you used eggs or butter that was too cold. It is best to have everything at room temperature
    before you begin, and know your oven. I always have to set mine 25 degrees lower because it gets too hot.
    Oven temperature is the most critical factor to successfully baking a cake. And in regards to trying to flatten
    the top of the cake instead of cutting it...I reeeaaallly don't recommend it. It ruins the light texture of the cake
    by forcing it to become dense and if you try it while the cake is warm, it makes the top sort of "doughy".
    Besides, you can't put enough pressure on it to make that top flat, it will spring back up to some extent. Slicing
    the top off ensures a good texture all the way through and you can be sure that your top stays flat. Good Luck!
    --Joanna

Author: Jeffery Arnett
    Subject: Rising problems
    Date: Sat Mar 21 10:34:35 1998
    Message:
    I agree with Joanna....a cake that rises poorly on the side and yet cracks in the middle generally signals an
    oven that's TOO HOT! Hvae you oven tested by your local service person...you may be surprised how "off"
    the thermostat may be.

    Try this:
    When I use a mix, I use Duncan Hines...but I follow the basic directions even for large cakes.

    Use those pan strips that help level the cake when baking on any cake bigger than 6" oin diameter. Using them
    I can get 2 inch high 8 inch layers from a sinlge box of mix.

    I always start my cakes baking at 300 degrees for about 15 minutes [under 10 inches] to 20 minutes [over 10
    inches], then increase the temperature to 325 to finish. This allows the sides to rise more before setting.

    A final note...given the choice, I would opt to cut off tops that to press down. You'd hate for the cake to decice
    to expand once iced and decorated.    Hope these suggestions help! Good luck.    Jeff

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Problems with layers rising
    Date: Sat Mar 21 19:34:49 1998
    Message:
    hi kelly; i agree 100% w/both jeff and joanna.
    i highly recomment jeff's method of baking! and joanna is sooooo right that your oven could be off temp.
    i know the gas &/or elec companies will send a service man out to ck the oven for free. (or at least they used
    to). it's called *calabrating*. it takes a special meter and about 1 hour to properly do this.
    once you know it is right i recommend you get a mercury thermometer. they can be purchaced at kitchen wear
    shop or an appliance repair parts house. they brand i'm fimilar w/is 'taylor'. they run about $15-20 (??). yes i
    know that seems like a lot, but they are *the* most accurate you can get.
    i also recommend you ck out the archived postings. most of
    this info plus prolly some more was gone over before.     lynne

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Problems with layers rising
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:40:10 1998
    Message:

    I think that cake mix was REAL old. Did it also not beat well, lumps remaining? If so it WAS old. At times
    you may pick up an old cake mix in an out-of-the-way store. P&G can tell you if its old by the code. Super
    market cake mix won't be old...unless they're prices are excessive compared to other stores. Cake decorators
    keep turning them over fast LOL.

    YES, with DH cake mix you can safely press the cake to flatten. Gently...it won't spring back up one bit --- IF
    you didn't over-bake the cake. Believe me, I've done it enough. If you over-bake it does spring back up. Or, it
    springs back up too, when you wait for too long after removing from the oven. I flatten it in the first minute
    upon removing from the oven. This is a great method of forming a better texture with no tunnels too.

Author: Melody *** Also see 'pricing' above
    Subject: Groom's Cakes
    Date: Wed Mar 18 11:21:12 1998
    Message:
    I need ideas and suggestions for a groom's cake for a wedding coming up in October. Any help will be greatly
    appreciated! Thank you!

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Groom's Cakes
    Date: Wed Mar 18 17:05:50 1998
    Message:
    I usually either make the groom's cake either to correspond with the wedding cake decoration theme or to a
    hobby of the groom's. Anoother good way is to make chocolate icing with chocolate-dipped strawberries
    filling the top. Delicious! On my web site under AOL CHATS, Earlene Moore has mentioned several groom's
    cakes she's done. I don't know if there are an pictures of some there or on her web site. (You can access her
    web site through my LINKS page as well as the AOL chat list. FYI: Groom's cakes are more popular in the
    south.

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: groom's cake
    Date: Thu Mar 19 19:36:55 1998
    Message:
    If the groom doesn't have a hobby they want to use as a theme, how about a chocolate design that coordinates
    with the wedding cake, but less feminine, and decorated with fall leaves made out of color flow or gumpaste
    instead of flowers.

Author: lynne
    Subject: fall leaves
    Date: Fri Mar 20 01:52:15 1998
    Message:
    make fall leaves out of rice paper........oh, so neat! and you can get them to tumble down the tiers soooo
    naturally:)
    they are easy to make. need instructions let me know. best if you have a airbrush to color them, but can be
    done w/felt-tip pens.    lynne

Author: Cindy
    Subject: # of servings
    Date: Wed Mar 18 10:51:10 1998
    Message:
    I need help with serving amounts. I'm not sure I trust the Wilton chart. For a 16", 12", 9" & 6" it adds up to
    about 184 servings. A local cake decorator said the same sizes would be about 270 servings. Is there another
    rule of thumb? I need 200 servings for a cake this weekend.    Thanks so much!

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: # of servings
    Date: Wed Mar 18 17:18:13 1998
    Message:

    There can be several factors that make up the amount of servings one needs for a wedding cake.

    1. Just cake & punch...a piece for everyone
    2. Food too...cake for almost everyone
    3. Liquor and/or beer...reduce the amount by a third
    4. Liquor and/or beer AND cutting the cake LATE...reduce the amount by half.

    I use the chart from Wilton's old Celebrate Wedding Cakes book. I say that cake serves around 230-240 (incl
    the top tier they keep).

    One thing... I total up the servings. If a cake really serves 200, I put on my label with the cake that it serves
    between 170-200....this sure cuts down on fooling around about servings when they order. The people who
    want 'too much' order by the first number. And the people who want none leftover order by the last numbers.

    I can get 45 pieces from a 10" cake. I always cut the wedding cake at the end of my 12 week course and we
    count the pieces. I decorate it the 11th week...its not good to eat, but they need to see how to cut.

Author: Carol Sobotka
    Subject: wedding cake icing problem
    Date: Tue Mar 17 17:33:05 1998

    Message:

    I've been making wedding cakes for family and friends for years and have been using the following recipe for
    icing. The problem I have is that while the icing tstes good it doesn't seem to stand up to a warm environment
    real well and I would appreciate any suggestions you might offer.

    Carol's Icing
    1 cup milk
    3 T milk
    1 cup granulated sugar
    1 cup crisco

    blend crisco and sugar together and set aside
    cook flour and milk to paste consistency and let cool
    mix all ingredients until smooth

    Thanks for any suggestions.    Carol

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: wedding cake icing problem
    Date: Wed Mar 18 08:44:30 1998
    Message:

    You left out the 'flour' amount.
    DO you have room to refrigerate the finished cake AND all this icing? If not, it will become poisin. You are
    essentually making 'pudding' and it definately needs refrigerated. I believe you define this recipe as 'French
    Buttercream' right?
    Food like this (unrefrigerated) can be contaminated and the person making it/tasting...doesn't become ill (but it
    would nearly kill me LOL). You see, you build up an immunity. Like arsenic. LOL.
    I suppose this breaks down the same way pudding would if it gets warm. I have made this but I have such a
    time keeping a wedding cake refrigerated (and it should BE - up to 1 hr to serving too).

Author: Carol Sobotka
    Subject: icing problem
    Date: Wed Mar 18 10:15:14 1998
    Message:
    Instead of 3T milk it should read 3T flour. Thanks    Carol

Author: Carolyn
    Subject: Carol's Name
    Date: Thu Mar 19 01:09:19 1998
    Message:
    Carol, where are you from? We used to have a teacher here when my kids were in school and her last name
    was Sobotka (I think it was spelled the same way). This was in Excelsior Springs, Missouri and probably in
    about 1975 or so.

    You probably need to use a regular buttercream to hold up in hot weather. I have a good recipe I would be
    glad to share that I use cornstarch in the year round and that helps the humidity problem as well as the
    sweetness problem. I will put it on the board or you can e-mail me at Bridal1@AOL.Com

Author: Brian C. Kirsch
    Subject: Cake Tops
    Date: Tue Mar 17 13:11:36 1998
    Message:
    I'm looking for a warner brothers figure called Taz. I need a Mr. and Mrs. Taz to put up on top of a wedding
    cake. I have tried the warner brothers store with no luck. Please let me know if you have seen something like
    this.    Brian

Author: Shanon
    Subject: Re: Cake Tops
    Date: Wed Mar 18 00:19:34 1998
    Message:
    Being a taz collector myself :) I have a couple things for you. Warner Brothers makes a salt and pepper
    shacker of "He and She Taz' and it is even a bridal set, at least Taz is in a tux and she taz is wearing a vail.
    This was available in Minnesota at the Mall of America Warner Brother's store. Then second QVC (yes the
    home shopping network) has a whole show, 2 hours usually, on Warner Brother's. A lot of it is specifically
    made just for them and not sold anywhere else. You might call them for a schedule and check out that show.
    Hope this helps.

Author: Kim A.
    Subject: Stacked layer size
    Date: Mon Mar 16 15:21:55 1998
    Message:
    I am doing a stacked cake with 6,10,14 and 18 inch rounds. I would like to do each size in 3 - 2 inch layers. Is
    it safe to do each "stack" with only dowels and no cake boards in between? I am leaning toward the 3 layer
    because it looks great when sliced and though it will be a large serving, it is also the only dessert at the
    wedding. Each stack will be a different cake and filling flavor. I will still be using a separator plate with each
    stack.    Thanks in advance.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Stacked layer size
    Date: Tue Mar 17 15:22:37 1998
    Message:

    You might get by with this if you only have 2 - 2" layers. But I wouldn't want to gamble on 3. Besides, it will
    be unsightly to be so tall of tiers. (Actually the cake will be over 4" with 2" tiers...icing etc.)

    >Is it safe to do each "stack" with only dowels and no cake boards in between?
    Emphatically NO. Place each tier on a foil-covered cardboard the same size as the cake, then dowel each tier
    as you stack.

    >I will still be using a separator plate with each stack.
    You are far better off to place the cakes on cake cardboards than on separator plates when stacking (with no
    pillars, right?). Sep. plates are slick and can cause the cakes to slide.

    AND...if you don't have much experience ...knowing what I know of cake disasters...I'd stack the 10-6 and the
    18-14 then put them together at set-up...add bottom borders at the reception place one the cakes are
    assembled.

Author: Amy
    Subject: separater plates
    Date: Tue Mar 17 21:09:54 1998
    Message:
    Dolores,
    So we need sep. plates as well as cardbaord under the cake? Why not just the cardbaord wrapped in foil?
    How high was the highest stacked cake you've delivered? Is it allright to delivered a 3 tiered cake already
    stacked, with a dowel down all layers?    Amy

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: separater plates
    Date: Wed Mar 18 08:38:46 1998
    Message:
    >>So we need sep. plates as well as cardbaord under the cake?
    NO - never - separator plates will make stacked cakes slide apart!!!!

    >>Why not just the cardbaord wrapped in foil?
    This is exactly what you should do.

    >> How high was the highest stacked cake you've delivered?
    5-tiers stacked...a fantastic cake and I fretted a WHOLE lot! But it had gumpaste flowers all over it and would
    have taken me hours if I'd finished it at the reception. I drove as slow as I could all the way!

    >> Is it allright to delivered a 3 tiered cake already stacked, with a dowel down all layers?
    I do deliver 3 tiers stacked with not much worry. <<>> NEVER have I pounded that stupid dowel rod down
    through all the tiers! Good way to make your cardboards buckle...then you have trouble. This is an idea
    Wilton came up with. You should see (experienced) decorator's reaction in a teacher's training session when
    they try to push that idea on us!!!
    DO dowel each tier with cardboards wrapped back & front in foil - always    Amy

Author: Shanon
    Subject: Re: separater plates
    Date: Wed Mar 18 00:00:43 1998
    Message:
    Hi!
    If you like the way the filing looks between the layers why not torte each 2" layer. Then you will have 3 layers
    of filling when you stack 2 2" together. I do this alot. I do icing between the torted layers and a filing in the
    center between the two 2". It is really pretty.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MISCELLANEOUS:

Author: Joan
    Subject: Cake falls when cooling
    Date: Mon Mar 30 08:59:36 1998
    Message:
    My cakes always fall as they are cooling. They taste fine so I know I am not underbaking. I cook a 12x18 at
    335 degrees using 2 1/2 Duncan Hines mixes, mixed according to box directions. I do mix it all up at one
    time, as I have a 5 quart KitchenAid, and use speed 4. What am I doing wrong?

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Cake falls when cooling
    Date: Mon Mar 30 10:18:11 1998
    Message:
    Unless you live in a high altitude...I know nothing about that...you just simply must not be baking the cake until
    it is done. Since you used a box-mix, you don't need to worry about ingredients - at least.
    To test for doneness: press your finger lightly in the center. If the cake BAREL springs back up, it IS done.

Author: lynne
    Subject: real cakes used in shows
    Date: Sun Mar 29 01:01:08 1998

    Message:     to mara and everyone:
    re: entering cake shows useing real cake w/buttercream vs. styrofoam cakes and rolled fondant.

    i decided to make a new post on this so everyone won't have to 'page back' and miss out on this discussion.

    personally, i have to travel no less than 300 miles to attend any show. it would severly limit what i could
    enter if i had to use real cake.
    i *do* usually use buttercream for my icing -- not royal.

    as you said i'd like to hear other opinions.
    why don't *you* enter buttercream cakes......real or not?

    btw mara: do you mean for the judging to be on the taste of the cake also??

    just a thought: about 10 days ago i got an order for a 1/2 sheet cake last minute.....(i had to bake and decorate
    it the same day as they wanted it before 8 am the next.)
    anyhoooo i ended up making a 'take-off' of a windbeckler daisy cake.....everything done right on the cake in
    buttercream w/just a little airbrush highlights around a 'frame'.
    i was told everyone that saw it -- including the birthday 'girl' said it was the most beautiful cake they had ever
    seen. (the bd gal said she has had many, many cakes in her almost 60 yrs and this was by far the prettiest)--so
    i was told. my only reason for telling this is to emphesise that much beauty can be created in buttercream if we
    try. (*not!* to toot my own horn -- really!) granted, these people are not judges. sometimes judges know too
    much for their own good :) lol! i have been a judge several times and try as hard as you can not to, you still
    judge on personal likes and dislikes -- at least to some degree.
    if you don't agree w/me on that....think about this: what is you least favorite color (bright yellow?). now
    picture a cake decorated (mainly) in that color, vs one decorated w/your favorite color (pink?). by
    honost....arn't you going to give that pink one a better score compared to the bright yellow one? i've been thru
    it, gals.    lynne

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: real cakes used in shows
    Date: Sun Mar 29 19:24:10 1998
    Message:
    I have used REAL cakes for cake shows, but then I covered them with royal icing. It worked just fine...easier
    to ice since the cake has more weight. When I tore down the cake, the real cake had almost entirely dried up.
    (Some of the cakes were dummies) One thing, I would be sire to seal around the edges WELL, or you could
    get weavels...mess!
    I always shrink-wrap my cake dummies so I can easily peel off the old icing to re-do.

Author: Dolores Cromer
    Subject: Decorating Bags
    Date: Sat Mar 28 18:54:06 1998
    Message:
    decorating bags that have come apart at the seams is one of my "valuable" collectables (23). i am sure they
    were put together with an adhesive, i just don't know the secret. everything from a hot press to stitching them
    on the machine has been tried. nothing works. is there a safe way of repairing them for future use? Dolores

Author: Dora
    Subject: Re: Decorating Bags
    Date: Sat Mar 28 22:16:44 1998
    Message:
    Hi Dolores,
    Well I'm not sure how to repair them but just wanted to let you know that the adhesive on these bags will
    break down if they are soaked for an extended period of time in soap and water. I have never had a problem
    with my bags coming apart, I turn them inside out and wash them thoroughly with a sponge and soap and
    water, I rinse them immediately and allow them to dry upside down on a towel.    Good Luck,    Dora

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Decorating Bags
    Date: Sat Mar 28 22:43:06 1998
    Message:
    dolores.......ahhhhh a girl after my own heart. just had an argument w/hubby bout that:) his opinion is just get
    rid of them and spend, spend, spend on new ones:)
    i want to *wring* my money's worth out of them. lol!
    i'm *really* waiting for this one to be answered.    lynne

Author: lorraine
    Subject: Ants found my cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 13:48:10 1998
    Message:
    I have had a problem with ants who have found my kitchen. I clean my kitchen constantly and bugspray
    weekly.(When there isn't a cake on the counter. Don't want icing to absorb the smell.) And even though I have
    been so careful the durn things found a 12x18 sheet cake I had been letting cool on a rack. I had gone to the
    store for 2 hours and come back to find a big mess. Luckily, I had time to throw away and clean up and start
    again. But boy was I upset, I was making a pool table cake for a friend that was due the next day. Now when I
    make a cake I check on it constantly, and now things that come in to the kitchen are throughly checked.
    Grocery bags and all. Has anybody else had this problem and found a miracle to keep them away? I'm going
    crazy with worry.

Author: mary
    Subject: ants
    Date: Sat Mar 28 15:03:03 1998
    Message:
    every spring andfall the ants try to make themselves at home in my house. As soon as we see the first one we
    spray ant killer outside the house all around the windows and doors and water faucets and outlets and
    everywhere else. We can't spray inside because we have kids and cats. Anyways this works well for us. It
    must be keeping them from coming in. Try it at your house, I think its easier to keep them out than to get them
    once they are already in.

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: ants
    Date: Sat Mar 28 15:05:46 1998
    Message:
    What a pain! I haven't had ants in my kitchen, but we had carpenter ants in my daughter's bedroom last year.
    Have you had a professional exterminator spray around your home? I never had much luck with store-bought
    sprays myself. Check around your windows, baseboards, and foundation for cracks where they might be
    getting in. After the exterminator came and sprayed some type of powder in the walls and ceiling, we haven't
    had any more problems. I'm having a rather unusual infestation in my kitchen-lady bugs, of all things! I guess
    because we had such a mild winter they didn't get killed off like normal. They keep coming in around the
    window. I caught at least 8 yesterday! Fortunately, they're not attracted to sugar. If anyone has a problem with
    aphids, come to my house and help yourself to some ladybugs!

Author: Mindy
    Subject: ants
    Date: Sat Mar 28 15:53:54 1998
    Message:
    You might try spectracide. It comes in a granular form and you can sprinkle it all around the outside of your
    house. It can usually be found in hardware stores

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Ants found my cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 22:51:57 1998
    Message:
    your best treatment is to work *outside*.
    get yourself to the store and get some "grants ant stakes". you'll get rid of them pronto and they will not return
    until you have to replace those stakes!
    they are a metal stake stuck into the ground about 8" ft apart at doors, windows, etc. they have a round portion
    at the top w/bait in it.
    most likely they are not getting in thru bags, etc as you mentioned :)
    it wouldn't hurt to get a professional treatment first. has it been extra wet this winter where you live? that
    drives ants out of the ground.     lynne

Author: Dianna
    Subject: ants
    Date: Sat Mar 28 23:07:06 1998
    Message:
    I also have had a problem with ants. They are attracked to the sugar. I have had success with using lots of
    pepper to disguise the smell....... hope this helps

Author: debbie
    Subject: baking temp for panastice pans
    Date: Thu Mar 26 18:13:53 1998
    Message:
    can anyone tell me what temp to bake at for a panastic pan? Directions say max temp 375, do I just bake at
    350    like the cake mix says? Or do they mean to bake at 375?    Thanks!

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: baking temp for panastice pans
    Date: Thu Mar 26 20:46:31 1998
    Message:
    Try baking at your usual temperature. The '375' just means that if your oven gets that hot or hotter, the pan will
    warp. These pans aren't as 'permanent' as metal ones anyway. The worst thing is getting them too hot. I bake at
    about 325 degrees so my cakes wont have a hump. Check for doness by pressing your finger lightly in the
    center of the cake and if it springs back up its done. This way it won't get any bit hotter than nec. Dolores

Author: Mary
    Subject: Airbrushed Mariah Cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 10:04:01 1998
    Message:
    I was flipping through the channels on tv this weekend and saw a special on Mariah Carey. She was backstage
    before a concert and she showed a cake that had been made for her. I am deducing it was made by a gentleman
    artist and I think he was in Jamaica. Anyways it was a PERFECT likeness of her and it was be-yootiful. I
    have never really cared for airbrushed cakes but now I have been converted. I think I will have to learn.
    Anyways I was thinking that sure was great publicity for all cake decorators everywhere. I am sure most
    people had no idea you could get such a great effect on a cake!

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Airbrushed Mariah Cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 20:49:40 1998
    Message:
    Wish I'd seen the cake!
    The airbrush can be used very artistically. It isn't for everything, but for enhancements its great.

Author: MaraTLee
    Subject: Re; Airbrushing a likeness on cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 18:42:53 1998
    Message:
    Hi,
    I will try to simplify the method. You need a stencil cutter ( like a woodburning tool, but doesn't get as
    hot--just hot enough to melt plastic)--you place the persons picture under a sheet of glass, place your mylar
    sheet on top and cut (melt away) all of your details. This becomes your stencil. You then place this on top of
    you cake and airbrush through it. Remove the stencil and then use your airbrush to refine the picture by adding
    you shading and such. You usually end up with a very good likeness. mara

Author: Marie
    Subject: Airbrushed portraits
    Date: Sat Mar 28 20:40:47 1998
    Message:
    Hi!
    Another way to do portraits if you don't have the stencil-cutting equipment is: find a picture of the person you
    wish to make, enlarge it in the KopyKake if it's too small, trace the important lines of the face onto parchment
    paper with black ink or something that will show through to the other side. One the back, retrace the lines with
    black or brown piping gel through an 00 tip. Let set a minute or two, then carefully lay the parchment on the
    cake, piping gel side down and lightly press the lines. Carefully lift the parchment and you'll have the lines
    transferred. Fill in with airbrush. One could practice this on a buttercream covered cake board.
    Marie

Author: jen
    Subject: About Wilton's new course II and III
    Date: Thu Mar 26 09:09:37 1998
    Message:
    I have been taking the classes and the instructor told me about the II and III being redone. So I was wondering
    if I should also take the new ones when I finish this set. I have done this class thing backward. I decided to
    take the classes after doing cake decorating for two years. I am self taught by a bunch of books and videos. I
    wanted to see if I could learn quicker ways or at least hints or tips about the cakes through the classes. And
    we just started course II, I have picked up a few things. So anyway, if anybody knows if it's worth taking the
    new ones please let me know. Thanks!............My instructor doesn't know exactly what the new ones will be.
    That's why I'm asking..........

Author: Mindy
    Subject: cake classes
    Date: Thu Mar 26 11:46:46 1998
    Message:
    I was wondering if after doing cake decorating and being self taught, did you learn very much from the
    classes? Did you think that it was worth it to take them? I'm in the same situation, decorating cakes for several
    years and learning from books and from Dee's aol chats and the message board. The classes are starting in
    April and I have thought about taking them but I don't know if I will learn anything new. I didn't sign up for the
    first class because it is just the basics, so I signed up for the second class. And last year I took part of the 3rd
    class. Thanks, Mindy

Author: jen
    Subject: classes
    Date: Thu Mar 26 12:43:02 1998
    Message:
    Mindy, part of the reason I am taking classes is to get the certificate. I thought that might help with getting a
    job at a bakery or if I have to, at the supermarkets. Working at a bakery first might help me to have a home
    business later when my kids are a little older. As far as learning anything new from the classes, we are now
    on the second lesson on Course II. I've picked up a couple of tips and as it turns out some of the other students
    are learning tips from me. (Things I learned from trial and error.) I'm hoping that I get better at the royal icing
    flowers so maybe watching the instructor in person instead of the videos will help. But mostly I like that I
    have other people to talk cake stuff to. My husband, family and friends are probably getting tired of all the
    cake talk. I talk about cake ideas constantly, it's a hobby gone crazy with me.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: About Wilton's new course II and III
    Date: Thu Mar 26 12:22:51 1998
    Message:
    I am teaching from the new book. It is basically the same course. They have switched some of the lessons
    around and omitted some....they took some out. Color flow is now in Course 2, lesson 2...was in course 3
    If you take all 3 courses, you'll get the same things almost. But the old book taught a few more techniques. I
    suppose the Penny's and Joann's teachers were having a hard time getting everything in with 2 hours. My
    classes are 2 1/2 hrs and I barely get everything in. Will be easier now.

Author: Lisa
    Subject: New courses
    Date: Fri Mar 27 09:37:39 1998
    Message:
    I have had the chance to teach the new Course II & III. The course II teaches more borders and flowers:
    pansies, mums, daisies, etc., plus basketweave and color flow. Course III introduces rolled fondant, lily nail
    flowers and tiered cake assemble. We are getting to spend more time learning flowers than we did before!
    Hope this helps.

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Lorainne flavors/oils
    Date: Wed Mar 25 16:08:47 1998
    Message:
    Hi All,
    Does anyone know if you can use any of the Lorainne oils in compound chocolate, or only the ones that
    specifically say oil. For example, I would like to make white chocolate flavored with vanilla butternut and
    some with champagne flavoring. However, these do not specifically say oil like the lemon, orange or mint
    does. Will the chocolate seize up with these other flavors? Thanks! Renee

Author: Sly
    Subject: flavoring chocolate
    Date: Thu Mar 26 08:13:53 1998
    Message:
    I have used other flavoring when making candies, but I usually add the flavoring to the cream or butter or
    some other ingredient that later gets incorporated into the chocolate. I'm not sure how well they'd work if
    you're making solid chocolates and not truffles or other candies where the chocolate is combined with other
    ingredients. You could always try a very small sample and test it. If it didn't work out, just chop up the siezed
    up sample and throw the pieces in the next time you make cookies or brownies. (never let chocolate go to
    waste!)

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Re:Loranne Oils
    Date: Thu Mar 26 08:42:18 1998
    Message:
    Hi,
    I sorry if my post wasn't clear. I don't mean other brands of flavorings or extracts. I guess I meant can any of
    the Loranne flavors be used for flavoring chocolate for molding?    Thanks! Renee

Author: Sly
    Subject: flavorings
    Date: Thu Mar 26 13:45:29 1998
    Message:
    Sorry, I may not be able to help. As I said, I've used their flavorings, but primarily to flavor the chocolate
    filling in the candy. I've never tried adding them to pure confectioners coating and just molding it. If I'm
    wanting to jazz up chocolates, I usually jazz up the inside.
    Maybe someone else can advise?

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Lorainne flavors/oils
    Date: Mon Mar 30 10:27:43 1998
    Message:
    You DO use Lorann oils for flavoring coating chocolate. Even these oils can thicken the chocolate somewhat.
    If so, thin it again with Paramount Crystals, to the preferred consistency.
    **See all ingred. above on my CANDIES page. Dolores

Author: Rebecca
    Subject: How long did you have to practice??
    Date: Wed Mar 25 14:17:16 1998
    Message:
    Hi all! I've been decorating cakes for only about a year now, but every time I finish a cake, I look at it, and
    think of several things I should have done differently. Anyone that sees the cake always tells me how beautiful
    it is and what a great job I did, but I am so disgusted with it that I don't even take a picture. Usually what I'm
    not thrilled about is the way the colors turned out (i.e. they have darkened or lightened to a color different than
    I anticipated they would). And when I look at the web sites some of you have created (esp. Ron Ben-Israel's
    site), I am soooo anxious to have my cakes turn out like that, I can't hardly stand it!!
    I know it all takes a lot of practice, and that I will eventually find my "niche", but I guess my question is, how
    long did it take for all of you to find what worked best for you and to be able to anticipate exactly how your
    colors will look when they dry??    Thanks all!    Rebecca

Author: Nannette
    Subject: practice makes perfect
    Date: Wed Mar 25 22:21:42 1998
    Message:
    Welllll...I've been decorating on and off for about 6 years, and I still look at my cakes and find things I could
    do better and/or differently! Part of it is because I only average about 12 cakes a year, and part of it is
    because I keep trying different things!! If you're like me and just do it as a hobby, that pace is probably just
    fine. If you're trying to get a business going, you might want to concentrate on just a couple of
    techniques/mediums until you really get it down.

    I would recommend that you take pictures. You would be amazed at how much you can improve in a short
    period of time, without really realizing it. Even though I cringe when I look at my earliest photos, it still
    makes me feel better looking back at them and seeing how far I have come along!    Good luck!

Author: Julia
    Subject: Why make it edible?
    Date: Wed Mar 25 04:15:44 1998
    Message:
    I was wondering why sugar artists make all their decorations EDIBLE (such as gum paste flowers) when
    people tend to NOT actually eat them, and instead keep them as sourvenirs?

Author: Sly
    Subject: edible decorations
    Date: Wed Mar 25 07:14:33 1998
    Message:
    I usually try to have nothing inedible on a cake, simply because there is no guarantee that someone won't try to
    eat every part of a cake. Children and pets don't often understand that the "pretty section" that was removed
    from the top of the cake isn't edible. (Hey, my cat loves gum paste, so I figure someone's dog could just as
    easily try to eat a bunch of wired flowers too).
    If someone wants a toy or figurine on a cake, I just try to make sure it's not too small, and is obviously not
    edible. (like the dollpick we use in the Wondermold pan, etc.)

    I have used wired flowers on occassion, but that's been when I was serving the cake or knew who was
    serving. I take a corsage box for the arrangement to go in so that no one attempts to eat it and so that it stays in
    one piece when they take it with them.

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Re: Why Edible?
    Date: Wed Mar 25 09:09:15 1998
    Message:
    Hi Julie,
    I think the biggest reason is in the title "sugar artist". Just like any artform, the medium is the important thing.
    Painters choose canvas and paint, scultpters choose marble, bronze etc., and sugar artist choose sugar! There
    is a challange in making everthing look as realistic as possible and also edible. And it is a never ending
    endevour. This is what makes it soooo interesting and fun! Hope this explains the artistic side. (At least from
    my point of view.) There are also practical reasons as well, as others will point out. I love this art and never
    tire of learning new ways of using sugar. Renee

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Why make it edible?
    Date: Wed Mar 25 11:40:51 1998
    Message:
    Just my opinion...but I think they look better and make the cake more special. Then people look at the CAKE
    and not the florist's flowers. YOU get the glory! I like it when people look at my cake and say its pretty, not
    the flowers on it.

    But the main reason...they aren't poisin like real flowers are! The insecticide sprayed on real flowers is
    dangerous for humans and not meant in anyway at to eat. My sis in law is SO allergic to the poisin they spray
    on a corsage that wearing one makes her nose bleed....wonder what it would do to her if she ate some cake
    with the spray rubbed off on it?
    Someone even mentiond...the last time this subject came up...that organically grown real flowers sometimes
    are no better. I don't know about that...but this should be food for thought.

Author: Rebecca
    Subject: Edible decorations
    Date: Wed Mar 25 13:52:17 1998
    Message:
    It's kind of funny, but there are some people that will eat anything you put on their plate!! :) I did a cake for a
    bridal shower yesterday, and when the lady that ordered the cake called to tell me how much they liked it, she
    told me that during the shower, she heard someone commenting on the royal icing roses and then she heard a
    "CRUNCH-CRUNCH". The woman proceeded to eat every single rose she was given! I bet she was on a
    sugar high the rest of the afternoon!

Author: Susan
    Subject: Gel Paste Colors
    Date: Tue Mar 24 12:17:01 1998
    Message:
    I was reading something about gel paste colors that I found interesting. They seem to mix very well with icing.
    Could some-one please tell me if the colors are true to label and how much do they cost? As always, thank
    you for your help. Susan

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Gel Paste Colors
    Date: Wed Mar 25 01:17:48 1998
    Message:
    yes, i have found them to be *very* true to color and imho very strong:) the first time i used them was a
    contest-we had been given 4-5 colors each. i chose pink and in about 3 cups of icing 2 drops of color gave me
    *shocking pink*! i was upset as that is not! what i wanted :(    since they were given to me i have no idea on price.

what i was given are small squeeze bottles.....about 1 1/2" tall and about a round as a ??? cigar??

    i don't remember now what brand they are. i agree w/theo they mix sooo well and i have had them about 2 yrs
    and no hint of drying out. i have just two of the colors left...brown and yellow. many of my older wilton paste
    jars are lumpy and leave dk spots that almost never can be blended.

    when you do get those you are ordering please let us know what you think of them.    lynne

Author: Theo
    Subject: Re: Gel Paste Colors
    Date: Wed Mar 25 09:14:54 1998
    Message:
    I bought some gel colors from Sur La Table (cooking catalog) a while back. I think it was a set of 12 for
    $16.95 (about $21-$24 after shipping, handling, etc.) The brand is Ateco. You may want to check with
    Dolores; she might have them cheaper. The colors are great; they mix very easily with your icing and you
    don't need to add half the bottle to get an intense shade. Plus, the ones I got (I don't know about others) came
    in a squeeze bottle - no more toothpick rainbows on the kitchen counter!!

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Gel Paste Colors
    Date: Wed Mar 25 12:05:02 1998
    Message:
    The gel in the tubes are CK brand and cost $1.59 each. We have these in many colors. I don't se them, so
    Theo's resonse is interesting...I may now.
    The gel paste we use here is in a jar like paste colors. I bet thats what Lynne had. It is SO strong. Watch out,
    your roses won't be red, they'll be black if you add too much! That color goes a long way. $2.05 per jar.

Author: Susan
    Subject: Dolores
    Date: Wed Mar 25 16:05:37 1998
    Message:
    Thank you. I just placed an order through your e-mail (which I hope you received) so on my next order I will
    probably order some of these gel paste colors from you to try them out. I am not to happy with Wiltons colors
    since I have to use most of the jar to get the color I am looking for. I appreciate your help. Thanks again,
    Susan

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ICES:

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re:
    Date: Sat Mar 28 11:59:20 1998
    Message:
    NEW: See all the new info I added about ICES on my website. Hope this helpd people to understand what
    this is all about. To find it...there is a link on my Message Board or from the opening MENU.

    Three files:
    1. The ICES brochure, telling what ICES is all about-join
    2. This year's convention outline...tells you what happens at a convention
    3. Earlene's outline of a convention

Author: linda
    Subject: ICES convention
    Date: Thu Mar 26 12:52:19 1998
    Message:
    Would like to hear from anyone that will be traveling from Ohio to the convention. I am new to this and might
    be interested in traveling and rooming with someone. Anyone interested please email me.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: ICES convention
    Date: Sat Mar 28 11:54:11 1998
    Message:
    Hi, I am traveling from Oxford Ohio by car, to the convention. But my husband will be with me. I'm traveling
    on Wednesday I think...unless we decide to sightsee along the way

    Are you planning to attend the OHIO ICES DAY OF SHARING in Columbus the last Sunday of April? This is
    the best place to coordinate your plans. There will be about 100 people in attendance....maybe more...Colette
    Peters is doing a big demo : )

    You can read all about it from my MENU under ANNOUNCEMENTS for DOS...see you there!

Author: Sly
    Subject: ICES
    Date: Thu Mar 26 12:49:03 1998
    Message:
    I know Dolores is going to add an ICES message area, but in the meantime I thought y'all might like to know
    this.
    My best friend just booked the last available room at the Days Inn next to the Convention Center. (she was
    disappointed that she had to get a smoking room, but it was the last room they had at the $69 convention price)
    I don't know about the other hotels yet, but if you plan on going, you may want to get that reservation in now.
    Oh, and at one point we had discussed trying to meet each other so we could put faces with those we talk to
    all the time. Was anything ever decided on that?

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: ICES
    Date: Fri Mar 27 01:01:48 1998
    Message:
    several yrs ago when we had discussions on another board a 'new' gal decided at the last minute (?maybe 2
    wks before?) to attend. it was a family trip. there were able to get a room in the convention headquarters hotel
    long after it was 'filled' thru auto club reservations.
    remember ices gets a 'block' of rooms at a special price. when those are gone, you are told 'sorry, sold out'
    *but* that does not mean the *entire hotel* is filled.
    as i remember, the above gal got their room for a bit *less* than the ices price! :)    lynne

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: ICES
    Date: Sat Mar 28 11:57:14 1998

    Message:

    Maybe if you are going early, you can still get the non-smoking room. Worth a try. Last minute arrivals have
    more trouble than that...those hotels OVER book all the time! And that one is solidly booked now.

    See all the new info I added about ICES on my website. Hope this helpd people to understand what this is all
    about. To find it...there is a link on my Message Board or from the opening MENU.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RECIPES

Author: Mary
    Subject: ISO Choc pound from mix
    Date: Sun Mar 29 22:30:23 1998
    Message:
    Help!!!! I need a chocolate pound cake recipe that preferably starts with a mix. I need it to be extra yummy
    and I need it pronto. Can anybody out there help me? It is to go in a 3D pan. Thank you all so much.

Author: Sly
    Subject: R-Choc. Pound Cake from Mix
    Date: Mon Mar 30 07:35:27 1998
    Message:

    I used this recipe with mixes from the big 3 (Duncan Hines, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury) and it works great.
    Preheat oven to 325 and prepare pan (Instead of grease and flour, I grease and cocoa a pan when doing a
    chocolate cake, that way it doesn't come out with white flour splotches all over it. Particular when it's a
    pound cake or bundt cake that I won't be frosting.)

    1 box Devil's Food Cake mix
    1 small box (4 serving size) Instant Chocolate Pudding/Pie Filling Mix(like Jell-O)
    3 large eggs
    2/3 cup water
    3/4 cup whole milk (if skim, add more milk and less water)
    1/3 cup oil
    1 tsp extracts (I like vanilla-butter-nut, but it's equally good with orange, almond, or just vanilla.)

    Combine dry ingredients in large bowl break up any large clumps.
    Add eggs, water, oil, extracts and milk. Stir in until cake mix is moistened.
    Beat at medium speed (handheld mixer) or low speed (stand mixer) for about two minutes.
    Bake at 325° until done. (usually 50-60 minutes, but that depends on your pan size.) In a large deep pan, you
    may want to reduce the temperature even more if you don't use a baking core.

    Let cool about 20-25 minutes in the pan before you remove it. (If this were baked as several shallow layers,
    they're probably okay after about 10 minutes)

Author: Leah
    Subject: ISO: Groom's Cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 13:57:36 1998
    Message:
    I am a southern girl looking for a recipe similar to the chocolate pound cake served at weddings as groom's
    cake. Its really moist and has the most wonderful chocolate frosting. Just thinking about it makes my mouth
    water. If anyone knows a recipe please forward it to me. Thanks in advance.

Author: Shirley W
    Subject: Buttermilk Substitute
    Date: Fri Mar 27 13:33:56 1998
    Message:
    Does anyone know what I can use as a substitute for buttermilk in recipes? Thank you in advance for your
    answers.

Author: Nannette
    Subject: R-buttermilk substitute
    Date: Fri Mar 27 18:07:10 1998
    Message:

    For 1 cup buttermilk, or sour milk,
    place 1 tablespoon lemon juice or
    distilled white vinegar into measuring cup,
    then fill to 1-cup mark with fresh milk or
    equivalent. Let stand 5 minutes at room
    temperature.

    Also, a company called Saco makes a powdered buttermilk that you mix with water. I have had luck finding it
    in the powdered/evaporated milk section of the grocery store. It is very convenient to have around when you
    only need small quantities of buttermilk occasionally.

Author: jen
    Subject: Problem with pound cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 13:07:08 1998
    Message:

    After trying 15 pound cake recipes(no exageration), I finally found one that was moist and everybody loved
    the taste. Now comes the problem, the very center of the piece no matter if it's in a loaf pan or tube pan, looks
    doughy. But you can tear the piece and bite in to it and it doesn't taste doughy. I've tried cooking with different
    temps., different lengths of time, not filling pan so full. I'm going beserk with this trial and error. Anyway I
    thought I read somewhere that you could add meringue powder to make a cake batter rise higher. Has anybody
    tried this?

Author: Mike
    Subject: meringue powder
    Date: Thu Mar 26 17:38:06 1998
    Message:

    I have never used meringue powder but in most of my cakes I'll add 2 to 3 egg whites whipped to a stiff peak,
    mix in 1/3 of this into mixture then cut in the remaining egg white. This gives the cake fuller body and a more
    even texture. I don't know if this will help or not, maybe someone else will pin point the problem for you.
    Your 15 pound, poundcake sounds very good though. Good Luck; Mike

Author: Dora
    Subject: Re: Problem with pound cake
    Date: Fri Mar 27 18:15:44 1998
    Message:
    Hi Jen,
    I have tried the meringue powder in my cake mix and I found it to give a firmer texture which actually seemed
    to make the cake a bit dry. I think if your recipe is too moist it may make it just right. Don't you just hate the
    "trial & errors!"    Good Luck    Dora

Author: Mike
    Subject: R: Raspberry Mousse
    Date: Thu Mar 26 11:42:36 1998
    Message:

    You will need:
    1 1/2 Tbs unflavored gelatin
    1/4 cup water
    2 pks 300g ea. frozen raspberries
    3/4 cup sugar
    2 tbs lemon juice
    2 tbs raspberry liqueur
    2 cups whipping cream
    In a small sausepan, sprinkle gelatin over water, let stand for 5 minutes to soften. Pass berries through food
    mill to puree and remove seeds to make about 2 cups. Transfer puree to separte sausepan. Add sugar and
    lemon juice, cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissovled, about 5 minutes. Stir in
    liqueur, transfer to large bowl. Over low heat, heat gelatin until dessolved, stir into raspberry mixture. Chill,
    stirring occasionally, over large bowl of ice for about 20 minutes or until consistency of raw egg whites.
    Whip the cream until stiff peaks form, fold into raspbery mixture.    Enjoy; Mike

Author: Diana Lane
    Subject: R: Black Velvet Cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 01:25:27 1998
    Message:

    A while back I recall someone looking for a Black Velvet Cake recipe. I don't know if this is what you're
    looking for but here it is:

    Black Velvet Cake
    2 cups almonds- slivered, slightly toasted
    12 oz chocolate chips
    1 Devil's food cake mix
    1 pkg chocolate pudding-instant,3-1/2 oz size
    4 eggs
    1 cup sour cream
    1/2 cup water
    1/4 cup oil
    1 teas. vanilla
    1 teas. almond extract
    1/4 teas. cinnamon

    Sprinkle 1/2 cup almonds on bottom of greased 10 inch tube pan. Set aside rest of almonds and chocolate
    chips. Place rest of ingredients in mixer bowl. Beat 4 minutes. Fold in chips and almonds, then pour into pan.
    Bake in 350 oven 60 to 70 minutes. Cool 15 minutes and remove from pan. Serve with whipped cream. if
    desired    1 tsp.

Author: vicki
    Subject: re:black velvet cake
    Date: Sat Mar 28 16:58:29 1998
    Message:

    I am so glad to find this again. I had told a friend of mine, that loves to bake that I had seen a black velvet
    cake recipe, she told me to get if for her, then I couldn't find it.    Thanks again,    vicki

Author: Renee V
    Subject: R - Peppermint patties
    Date: Wed Mar 25 16:32:19 1998
    Message:
    Hi Everyone,
    I thought I would post a recipe for "York" peppermint patties that I found in "Top Secret Recipes" by Todd
    Wilbur.
    You may have clients that want mints, but don't want cream cheese for some reason. These are very cool and
    minty just like York!

    1 egg white (or equvalent in paturized powdered egg white, reconstituted)
    4 c 10x sugar
    1/3 c light corn syrup
    1/2 t peppermint oil or extract
    Cornstarch for dusting
    1lb dark compound chocolate ( or any color or flavor)

    1. In a medium bowl, beat the egg white until it is stiff and forms peaks.
    2. Slowly add the powdered sugar while blending with a electric mixer set on medium speed.
    3. Add the corn syrup and peppermint oil or extract and knead the mixture with your hands until it has the
    smooth consistency of dough.
    4. Using a surface and rolling pin lightly dusted with cornstarch, roll out the peppermint dough 1/4" thick.
    5. Cut out circles (or any shape) and place them on a cookie sheet and let them firm up in the refrigerator,
    about 45 minutes.
    6. Melt the compound coating and coat each patty or shape in chocolate and place on wax paper.
    7. Chill the peppermint patties until firm, about 30 minutes.

    I bet you could press this "dough" into molds, if you wanted to. Also, I don't see why you couldn't coat these
    in pastel or white chocolate for a pretty wedding mint.

Author: Vicky
    Subject: R-Macadamia Fudge Torte
    Date: Tue Mar 24 18:28:21 1998

    Message:

    Macadamia Fudge Torte

    Ready in 2 hours 45 minutes (Cooking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes)
 

    FILLING
    1/3 cup low-fat sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated)
    1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

    CAKE
    1 pkg. Pillsbury Moist Supreme® Devil's Food Cake Mix
    1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
    1/3 cup oil
    1 (16-oz.) can sliced pears in light syrup, drained
    2 eggs
    1/3 cup chopped macadamia nuts or pecans
    2 teaspoons water

    SAUCE
    1 (17-oz.) jar butterscotch caramel fudge ice cream topping
    1/3 cup milk

    Häagen-Dazs® Vanilla Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt

    Heat oven to 350 F. Spray 9 or 10-inch springform pan with nonstick
    cooking spray. In small saucepan, combine filling ingredients. Cook over
    medium-low heat until chocolate is melted, stirring occasionally.

    In large bowl, combine cake mix, cinnamon and oil; blend at low speed for
    20 to 30 seconds or until crumbly. (Mixture will be dry.) Place pears in
    blender container or food processor bowl with metal blade; cover and blend
    until smooth.

    In large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of the cake mix mixture, pureed pears
    and eggs; beat at low speed until moistened. Beat 2 minutes at medium speed.
    Spread batter evenly in spray-coated pan. Drop filling by spoonfuls over
    batter. Stir nuts and water into remaining cake mix mixture. Sprinkle over
    filling.

    Bake at 350 F. for 45 to 50 minutes or until top springs back when touched
    lightly in center. Cool 10 minutes. Remove sides of pan. Cool 1 1/2 hours
    or until completely cooled.

    In small saucepan, combine sauce ingredients. Cook over medium-low heat
    for 3 to 4 minutes or until well blended, stirring occasionally. To serve,
    spoon 2 tablespoons warm sauce onto each serving plate; top with wedge of
    torte and scoop of ice cream. If desired, garnish with chocolate curls.

    12 servings

    HIGH ALTITUDE - Above 3500 Feet: Add 1/3 cup flour to dry cake mix. Bake as
    directed above.

Author: Mike
    Subject: Q: can I add gelatine to mousse
    Date: Tue Mar 24 15:29:43 1998
    Message:

    Author: Mike Mccarty
    Subject: ISO: Mousse & Gelatine
    Date: Sat Mar 21 15:40:05 1998
    Message:
    I'm developing a new recipe. I hope to have three layers of mousse, one layer of
    cheesecake and two layers of genoise.
    Because of the weight of the finished torte I would like to add gelatine to the mousse
    to firm it up a bit and to keep the bottom layer of mousse from seeping out of the torte.
    The question is: How much gelatine will be required for a batch of mousse calling for
    one cup heavy cream, four egg whites, two Tbs. sugar and flavoring? Question 2.
    When would I add the gelatine? Thanks again Mike

Author: Sly
    Subject: gelatin in recipes
    Date: Thu Mar 26 08:28:47 1998
    Message:
    I've never tried to create my own mousse recipe, but traditionally when using gelatin in a recipe, you spinkle
    it into one of the liquids, let it sit for several minutes, and then warm it until it completely dissolves. Then you
    would incorporate the gelatin mixture into the whipped cream or similar ingredient. The more gelatin you add
    the firmer and stiff the mousse, but the more difficult it is to get everything combined perfectly. (trust me, I've
    had a mousse come out hideously splotchy because the gelatin wasn't perfectly dissolved).
    I'd start with just one pouch, and then adjust the amount depending on my results.

Author: Mike
    Subject: sly mousse
    Date: Thu Mar 26 17:49:07 1998
    Message:
    Thanks, Sly for the input.
    I posted the recipe for raspberry mousse. That I add gelatin into the water that is then put into the hot
    raspberry mixture. In a chocolate mousse, there is no liquids, only coco, meringue and whipped cream plus
    salt, vanilla etc,etc.    Can't quite figure out how to do it and get it evenly distributed. Mike

Author: Sly
    Subject: R: Hershey's Choc. Lover's Mousse
    Date: Sat Mar 28 08:37:10 1998
    Message:
    This is the only mousse recipe I could find that used the unflavored gelatin as a thickener. I've NOT tried this
    particular recipe (I must have sold/loaned/thrown out the cookbook that had the original recipe I referred to,
    can't find it anywhere.) However, maybe this will give you an idea of how to use the gelatin in your recipe:

    Hershey's Chocolate Lover's Mousse for Two
    (from "More Classic Baking with Hersheys")

    2 TBSP sugar
    1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin
    1/4 Cup milk
    1/2 Cup Hershey's Mini-Chips Semi Sweet Chocolate
    1 TBSP orange-flavored liqueur or rum or 1 tsp vanilla extract
    1/2 Cup Cold whipping cream
    and
    Sweetened Whipped Cream (optional) as a garnish

    In small saucepan, stir together sugar and gelatin; stir in milk. Let stand 2 minutes to soften gelatin. Cook over
    medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture just begins to boil. Remove from heat. Immediately add small
    chocolate chips; stir until melted. Stir in liqueur; cool to room temperature. In small bowl beat whipping
    cream until stiff. Gradually add chocolate mixture, folding gently just until blended. Refrigerate.
    Garnish with sweetened whipped cream, if desired. 2 servings.

Author: Vickiva
    Subject: Do you have to refrigerate an iced cake?
    Date: Tue Mar 24 14:23:52 1998
    Message:
    I'm very new at this, and want to know if you have to refrigerate an iced cake or not. Also, how long can you
    keep a cake before it goes "bad"?     Thanks-    Vickiva

Author: Susan
    Subject: Re: Refrigerate an iced cake
    Date: Tue Mar 24 20:13:50 1998
    Message:
    You do not have to refrigerate an iced cake if it has certain icings on it. Fondant, buttercream, and royal
    icings. But if you have certain kinds of fillings that have to be cold or if you use a whipped topping icing then
    you definatelly have to keep cold. If a cake is covered in an airtight container then it should keep for a couple
    of days. You shouldn't make a cake and ice it to far in advance otherwise it won't taste fresh. You can bake
    your cakes ahead of time and freeze them but you have to let them completely thaw out before you ice them.
    otherwise your icing may fall right off the cake. Hope this helped you and I am sure others will be helpful
    also. Susan

Author: Nicole
    Subject: ISO: Raspberry filling recipe
    Date: Tue Mar 24 12:30:34 1998
    Message:
    I'll be making a white cake with raspberry filling -- does anyone have a recipe for the filling, or could I just
    use preserves??Author: Mike
    Subject: raspberry filling
    Date: Tue Mar 24 15:38:11 1998
    Message:
    Hi Nicole. I have a raspberry Mousse filling if that will help. I like mousse as afilling because it can add an
    inch per layer and you can increase the recipe buy just adding more cream without lossing the great flavor of
    the raspberry. Mike    Thanks in advance!

Author: kat
    Subject: Raspberry Mousse
    Date: Wed Mar 25 15:18:04 1998
    Message:
    Mike:    Your raspberry mousse sounds wonderful. Could you post the recipe for all to see?? Thanks.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: ISO: Raspberry filling recipe
    Date: Wed Mar 25 01:24:53 1998
    Message:
    nicole; the mousse mentioned is nice. i usually use just preserves. or purchace filling in the 'sleave' (platic
    tube). these commercial fillings do not need refrig.    lynne

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: ISO: Raspberry filling recipe
    Date: Wed Mar 25 12:48:17 1998
    Message:
    We carry raspberry filling that is very good. It should be listed under 'FLOWERS & OTHER EDIBLES.' But
    raspberry preserves would be very good too

Author: Mindy
    Subject: Re: Re: ISO: Raspberry filling recipe
    Date: Thu Mar 26 12:13:59 1998
    Message:
    When you use raspberry or apricot preserves as a filling , does the cake need to be refrigerated? Thanks
    Mindy

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Re: Re: ISO: Raspberry filling recipe
    Date: Fri Mar 27 09:22:30 1998
    Message:
    Not at all...nothing to cause spoilage

Author: Mary
    Subject: raspberry filling
    Date: Wed Mar 25 15:52:51 1998
    Message:
    A few weeks ago I made a cake that I iced with Delores' Semicream icing(from her recipes page) I made the
    dam of icing for filling my layers and then I covered the layers with a thin layer of the same icing not all the
    way up to the dam level. I then spread on a layer of raspberry preserves that had been heated and strained(I
    hate those seeds). It was scrumptious I think because the raspberry flavor was not overwhelming. It was also
    very pretty when it was cut as each torted layer had the white of the icing and the thin stripe of depp pink
    raspberry right on top of it.

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: working with rolled buttercream
    Date: Mon Mar 23 16:33:59 1998
    Message:
    I tried rolled buttercream for the first time this weekend. It was very easy to make and does taste better than
    fondant, but there were some things about it I didn't like, and I just wondered if there's anything I can do about
    them. I used Marsha Winbeckler's recipe from ACD. First of all, it took quite a bit more powdered sugar to
    make a workable dough than the recipe called for. It was still pretty soft and greasy, and very shiny. It was
    absolutely necessary to roll it between sheets of heavy plastic, because it was so soft and tore easily. That's
    fine, but can someone tell me the easiest way to clean the plastic sheets? I dusted the covered cake a couple of
    times with sifted sugar to get rid of the shine. What bothered me the most was that I had to keep the cake
    refrigerated, or the icing would get too soft on the sides, and the icing kept weeping oil at room temperature.
    Is there anyway to keep it from oozing out hte shortening like that, at room temp? I don't have room to keep
    several, or large, cakes refrigerated. Also, what's the best way to make it chocolate, adding cocoa or melted
    chocolate, and does that replace any of the sugar or shortening? Thanks!

Author: Nannette
    Subject: rolled buttercream
    Date: Mon Mar 23 23:38:52 1998
    Message:
    I usually clean the plastic sheets by filling my sink with hot water and Dawn dishwashing liquid, and
    scrubbing both sides in the sink under water. Then I rinse them with clear water.
    I've used Marsha's recipe several times, and have not had the problem you described, or had to add more
    sugar than called for in her recipe. It will be shiny, but I usually find it tears less easily than, say, Choco-Pan,
    and it doesn't ooze. When you knead it, you should knead it to the point that when you try to pull it apart, it is
    very elastic. Maybe you're kneading too much? Or adding too much Crisco?

Author: Jennifer
    Subject: rolled buttercream
    Date: Tue Mar 24 00:24:56 1998
    Message:
    I followed the recipe exactly as it appeared in ACD last fall. It seemed okay until after I rolled it out on the
    plastic and draped it over the cake. The sides started stretching really bad around the "shoulder" of the cake to
    the point of tearing, from the weight of the icing hanging down the side. After I kneaded in maybe a cup more
    of sugar, it went on fine. After sitting at room temp overnight, there were tiny droplets of oil all over the
    surface. I wiped it off and refrigerated it, and it stopped, but I noticed at the end of the show Sunday, it had
    started to weep a little again. It wasn't a whole lot, but I was afraid my royal icing lace might come loose.

Author: Nannette
    Subject: R-chocolate rolled buttercream
    Date: Mon Mar 23 23:46:34 1998
    Message:
    To make chocolate rolled buttercream, cut out half a cup of the powdered sugar in the regular recipe and
    replace it with 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. Add the cocoa powder into the recipe with the flavorings, before
    you add the powdered sugar.

Author: Sly
    Subject: R: choc rolled b-cream
    Date: Tue Mar 24 08:47:59 1998
    Message:
    you can also make the chocolate rolled buttercream by simply substituting Domino's Chocolate powdered
    sugar for the white sugar in the recipe.
    I've never had it ooze before either. Are you using Crisco, or some other brand? (Many have water whipped
    into the shortening, which may cause this problem.) Whenever I make it, I always use Karo brand corn syrup
    and Crisco solid shortening.
    Also, did you have something very moist/soft under it on the cake? (If your crumb coat was particularly thick
    and fluffy, adn you rolled your buttercream a little thin, I could see this happening as well.)

    After you roll a piece out, try holding it in your hand with your fingers outspread. If it stretches and sags a lot,
    or falls through and tears between your fingers, it's still either too wet or it's too thin.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: working with rolled buttercream
    Date: Tue Mar 24 09:21:59 1998
    Message:
    Why not copy and paste this note to winbeckler@aol.com
    and ask her what you asked us exactly. Marsha should be able to give you some ideas.

Author: Heather
    Subject: Question Re: Colorflow icing recipe
    Date: Mon Mar 23 14:00:25 1998
    Message:
    Hello everyone,
    I have been making some practice color flow decorations for my son's cake this comming weekend, and i have
    been having some problems with them getting all the way hardened. The tops become nice and hard but the
    underneath is still kind of gooey. I am following the Wilton color flow recipe (with the mix).
    I am letting them dry for 24-48 hours, is this not long enough?
    What am i doing wrong?    Heather

Author: Tracey
    Subject: Re: Question Re: Colorflow icing recipe
    Date: Mon Mar 23 19:30:46 1998
    Message:
    Hi Heather,
    You may need to let it dry longer. Where I live it get humid so it takes longer for my pieces to dry. Also, it
    depends on how big the piece is. The bigger the piece the longer you may need to let it dry. Sometimes, I very,
    very carefully slide the piece off of the wax paper over the edge of a table while checking the bottom of the
    piece. If it is still to wet I stop (because you may crack the piece) and let it dry for another day or two.
    Sometimes it comes off of the wax paper okay but it is not hard but just barley soft, then I turn the piece over
    and let it dry for about a day with the bottom side up on the wax paper. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Author: Heather
    Subject: RE:color flow
    Date: Tue Mar 24 07:23:46 1998
    Message:
    Tracey,
    Yes, they are large pieces...Two martial artists "fighting".
    I will give them until thursday to dry (made them on Sat), in if still not dry i might try what dolores mentioned
    with the food dehydrator.
    I will let everyone know how everything finally turns out on sunday...(his b-day is sat).
    Thankyou for replying.... :)    Heather

Author: linda
    Subject: colorflow
    Date: Thu Mar 26 08:30:53 1998
    Message:
    I was told when I started out with colorflow to do my imiage on a piece of cardboard so the air can flow
    under your colorflow image. I'm not an expert at this but have done several pieces, one being about 6-8 inches
    in diameter and it had dried in a couple of days. You might try sliding them on to a large piece of cardboard if
    they are on something solid (like your table). Good luck.

Author: lynne
    Subject: colorflow drying
    Date: Tue Mar 24 00:15:15 1998
    Message:
    well heather i'm going to try posting again as my 1st try must be lost in cyperspace somewhere:(
    i realize the best thing here is to get those pieces dry, but if it gets down to the wire and you need them, you
    said this was for family so just put the pieces on the cake w/the backing still on. cut away the excess paper
    carefully and place on cake. of course, when serving set the piece aside and don't serve it:) and if you mount
    the flow piece on sugar cubes your son can save it. (it won't touch the cake)
    now something i thought of that might make a difference: could you possibally have added too much water --
    thinned it too much? i prefere making my flow thicker than usual, to a very slow count of 12 instead of 10. this
    would make a difference in drying time.    lynne

Author: Heather
    Subject: Colorflow icing Re:drying
    Date: Tue Mar 24 07:19:06 1998
    Message:
    Lynne,    I too used less water...
    Dolores said that i might try to use a food dehydrator, and that it may be humid where i live which would
    make them     take more time to dry.
    Thanks so much for your input i greatly appreciate it !!!!    Heather :)

Author: kellie
    Subject: iso cream cheese mints
    Date: Sun Mar 22 23:13:04 1998
    Message:
    I need a recipe for cream cheese mints that can be rolled and cut out. currently I am rolling each into a ball,
    then into granulated sugar and then into a mold. I need large quantities and do not have time to mold hundreds.
    Thanks for your help

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: iso cream cheese mints
    Date: Mon Mar 23 09:58:51 1998
    Message:
    Why not use the same recipe? You can add more conf. sugar into the recipe if nec.

Author: Johnna
    Subject: White cake---HELP!
    Date: Sun Mar 22 18:19:07 1998
    Message:
    I have started baking a lot of wedding cakes lately. I am not a fan of white ckae but that still seems to be what
    most brides want.
    I use Duncan-Hines cake mix and am wondering in there are any trick or additions that can make it taste more
    home-made? Any suggestions would be helpful.

Author: Mary
    Subject: White cake
    Date: Sun Mar 22 23:01:45 1998
    Message:
    I really like BC Sweet Rewards white cake mix. It is from their reduced fat line of foods. I don't add anything
    to it. I just underbake it and ice with a basic frosting with almond flavor. I have gotten raves about it.
    Unfortunately I have heard that Sweet Rewards cake mix has been discontinued. I wonder if it tastes the same
    as regular Betty Crocker White? I know that usually they add more sugar and flavor when they take out some
    fat, so I don't know. Anyways I have been able to find a few boxes of it here and there so maybe if you some
    across it you could give it a try.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: White cake---HELP!
    Date: Tue Mar 24 00:21:02 1998
    Message:
    i have heard of some people adding a teaspoon more flavoring....such as vanilla &/or almond.
    i prefere using betty crocker sour cream white mix.
    i know most of us base our choices on *our* tastes, but if you are getting more and more orders, and most of
    them are requesting white you must be doing something good :)    lynne

Author: linda
    Subject: white cake
    Date: Thu Mar 26 13:04:25 1998
    Message:
    I've only been at baking cakes about 1 1/1 years now (that is baking for other people) but in that time there has
    been many white cakes. I use Duncan Hines recipe as on the box and they all thought that it was home-made.
    Several people said they didn't think a cake out of a box could taste so good. I really have had some raves
    about how good the cakes have been. I'm careful about the amount of baking time. The way I'm looking at it is
    if they think it is home-made why change.

Author: Debbie
    Subject: ISO-Death by chocolate
    Date: Sat Mar 21 22:49:21 1998
    Message:
    Does anyone have the recipe for this cake? I had cut it out of the paper but hubby threw it out! Thanks!

Author: Caesanea
    Subject: Death By Chocolate
    Date: Sun Mar 22 10:57:15 1998
    Message:
    R-I have a Death By Chocolate Calender that includes this recipe. It is very long I will try to email it to you.

Author: Caesanea
    Subject: Death By Chocolate
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:25:34 1998
    Message:
    R-I have a Death By Chocolate Calender that includes this recipe. It is very long I will try to email it to you.

Author: Heather
    Subject: ISO: color-flow recipe
    Date: Sat Mar 21 21:21:53 1998
    Message:
    Is there a color flow recipe that i can make from scratch?
    I know there is one from Wilton(using their mix) ....but the store near me did not have the supplies in at the
    time, and i need it by Monday the 23rd.    Any and all help is appreciated !!!!!!    Heather

Author: Mary
    Subject: color flow
    Date: Sat Mar 21 22:07:55 1998
    Message:
    I have used the Wilton color flow (smells yucky) I prefer to use a thinned down royal icing that I make from a
    mix. I don't know why you couldn't thin down home made royal icing that was made from meringue powder. It
    would probably be more expensive. Has anyone out there ever heard that sprinkling edible glitter on a wet
    color flow piece will strenghten it? It does look pretty as an effect on some pieces.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: color flow
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:21:25 1998
    Message:
    Color flow smells 'yucky' because eggs DO smell yucky. Try smelling one sometime. Once you add flavoring
    the smell isn't so bad.

Author: Mike
    Subject: ISO: How do I determine the quality of chocolate when buying
    Date: Sat Mar 21 16:53:45 1998
    Message:
    Hi again. As I get more involed in baking I find my biggest cost is in chocolate. I've aways used Bakers
    Chocolate. In bulk food stores you find chocolate for quite a bit less. I've haven't used any because the owners
    can't tell me the cocoa butter %. My busness is not big enough to buy ten pound blocks of chocolate at a time.
    How do the rest of you deal with this problem? Or should I try the Bulk store brand and try it. Any simple
    tests I could run on the chocolate to determine the quality? Mike

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: ISO: How do I determine the quality of chocolate when bu
    Date: Sun Mar 22 12:24:56 1998
    Message:
    I don't use PURE chocolate, just coatings. But I determined the brand I liked by:
    1. Taste...not waxy like some
    2. Smoothness --- no gritty taste like some
    3. How it handles...will it take a good amount of abuse...re: warming/cooling etc...as with the 'temper' of it.
    Some cheaper brands just won't take it when you get it a bit too hot etc.

    I prefer Merckens because of taste (no waxy taste), smoothness and handling ease.

Author: Katie
    Subject: Q: How far in advance can you ice a cake?
    Date: Fri Mar 20 17:26:02 1998
    Message:
    Hello Friends, I was wondering how far in advance you can ice a cake without it affecting the the texture of
    the icing and flavor of the cake. I plan on using the Snow White Buttercream icing on the Wilton meringue
    container. Thanks so much! Can it be iced the night before?

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Q: How far in advance can you ice a cake?
    Date: Fri Mar 20 18:59:29 1998
    Message:
    Yes Katie, it is fine to ice the cake the day before you eat it. In fact, most of the time wedding cakes are baked
    on Thurs., iced & decorated on Fri. and delovered and served on Sat. night.
    Any bakery cake would need to be baked, iced and decorated the day before...you never know what time
    customers will pick up...and when you have 50 going out...

Author: michelle
    Subject: ISO...Icing like the icing on cakes from a bakery
    Date: Thu Mar 19 16:31:41 1998
    Message:
    I'm looking for a recipe identical to the one they use at a
    bakery(like king soopers, albertsons, or city market)
    I love how the frosting is so light and airy yet it tastes just like the icing we learned how to make in cake  class.

Author: Diana
    Subject: R Mock Whipped Cream Icing
    Date: Thu Mar 19 16:55:03 1998
    Message:

    This icing tastes like the supermarket icings. All ingredients are available in the cake dec stores in my area so
    i'm assuming the are widely available.
    Mock Whipped Cream Icing

    1 cup water
    10 cups powdered sugar
    1-1/2 teaspoon Agar
    1/2 tsp salt

    Combine and beat at high speed for 15 to 20 minutes.

    Mix:
    3 cups Hi-ratio Shortening
    1/2 cup Brite White
    1 teaspoon butter flavor
    1-1/2 teaspoon vanilla

    Add and beat at medium speed for 12 minutes. If too soft for your tastes add more sifted powdered sugar.

Author: Heather
    Subject: re:icing
    Date: Thu Mar 19 21:12:53 1998
    Message:
    Does this icing form a crust to be able to place color-flo decorations on it?
    I am looking for a icing lighter than the buttercream , as this is what my son prefers. I am new tho the
    decorating so i am open to anything.    Thankyou :)    Heather

Author: Diana
    Subject: Re: re:icing
    Date: Thu Mar 19 21:31:59 1998
    Message:
    Hi Heather, No, this icing does not crust. Hope you find what you are looking for. :)

Author: Susan
    Subject: Re: Mock whipped cream icing
    Date: Thu Mar 19 22:50:30 1998
    Message:
    Diana,
    Just a couple of dumb questions for you. What is agar, and brite white? I am interested in trying this recipe
    that you gave to Heather, and I am hoping to find these ingredients. Thank you for the recipe. Susan

Author: Diana
    Subject: Re: Re: Mock whipped cream icing
    Date: Sun Mar 22 01:10:01 1998
    Message:
    I believe Brite White is a product added to frosting to cut down on the greasiness. It's a substitution for part of
    the shortening added in the making of frosting.
    Agar: I know it is a vegetable product but what it's purpose is I don't know. I would guess that it is a
    stabilizer. This is a recipe I aquired at a local toy store.

Author: Trish
    Subject: ISO Chocolate Fondant Recipe
    Date: Wed Mar 18 12:39:58 1998
    Message:
    Hi everyone,    To save me alot of time experimenting, does anyone have a recipe similiar to Choco-pan?
    Thanks,    Trish

Author: Dora
    Subject: ISO White Rolled Fondant Recipe
    Date: Wed Mar 18 13:01:49 1998
    Message:
    If anyone also has a recipe for white rolled fondant I would really appreciate it. I think it would be much less
    expensive than the premade fondant.    Thank you,    Dora

Author: Renee V
    Subject: R - rolled fondants
    Date: Wed Mar 18 15:34:27 1998
    Message:
    Hi Dora,
    I know Delores has a recipe for white fondant on her recipe pages. Rose Levy Birenbaum has recipies for
    both white and chocolate fondants in her book "The Cake Bible." The cake on the cover it covered with her
    chocolate fondant. I've never tried this recipe, but it looks delicious. Hope this helps. Renee.

Author: Cindy
    Subject: choc rolled fondant
    Date: Tue Mar 24 01:25:00 1998
    Message:
    I've used "The Cake Bible" chocolate rolled fondant at home with knox gelatin and corn syrup. I had no
    problem, it was great. I gave the recipe to my students and it didn't come out. Today, I duplicated it at school
    and the fondant seems weird (either crumble or oily -or both at once if that seems possible!) Does anyone
    have any idea why it is different. I used different a different gelatin brand (probably different brand of syrup,
    cocoa, pwdr sugar, shortening - glycerin was the same). Another student used the white fondant recipe and it
    came out fine. Can a different cocoa really make that much difference? Please help - any advice would be
    appreciated! Thanks

Author: mike Mccarty
    Subject: fondant icing
    Date: Wed Mar 18 17:37:50 1998
    Message:
    Hi Dora. This recipe doesn't say how much it will cover but I believe it should do a two layer, 9 inch cake.
    you need 1 lb.icing sugar. 1 egg white. 2 oz glucose. 1 tps. almond ext.
    Sieve the icing sugar twice, into a large bowl. Make a well in the centre and add the egg white and glucose,
    with the almond ext. Beat the mixture steadily, gradually drawing in all the icing sugar. Turn on to a board
    dusted with icing sugar, knead until smooth and pliable. colouring can be add at this time. roll out and apply
    to the cake by placing the whole piece on top of cake. Smooth down the sides, trimming away any surplus at
    the base. Good Luck. Mike

Author: Amy
    Subject: choc. fondant idea
    Date: Wed Mar 18 19:01:03 1998
    Message:
    Dora,    I havn't tried this yet, but maybe you could use Domino choc. flavored pwd.sugar in a reg. fondant recipe
    instead of plain pwd. sugar.     Amy

Author: Sly
    Subject: R: Rolled Fondant
    Date: Thu Mar 19 07:30:24 1998
    Message:
    Here's my recipe: It's not that much cheaper than premade, so I do still use the premade, especially when I'm
    doing dummies for competition. The advantage to the homemade fondant is that you can add flavorings and
    food colors to the liquid before you incorporate the dry ingredients, and you can get evenly colored fondant
    without having to knead it for 5 minutes. Also, I find the homemade tends to stay workable a bit longer. (But
    it's also time consuming to make in quantity.)

    Rolled Fondant
    2 pounds (1 kg) sifted powdered sugar
    1/2 TBSP Tylose (CMC)
    1/2 Cup Glucose (do not substitute corn syrup)
    1/2 TBSP Crisco (whitefat)--I use a full tablespoon
    6 TBSP Boiling Water

    Mix glucose, whitefat and boiling water. (Add any other liquid items to this: flavorings, colors, etc.)
    Mix together sugar and CMC. I always throw in a teaspoon or two of Dryvan (powdered vanilla).
    Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ones. Mix and knead. (Rub some crisco over your hands first)
    Add additional sugar if necessary by tablespoon.

    You can use this right away, but I think it's best after it matures for a night. Seal the fondant in a plastic bag.

    To store, freeze or refrigerate it, and then bring it back to room temperature and knead again before using.

    I got this recipe at ICES convention from Rosa Viacava de Ortega's demo. I keep meaning to try it using the
    chocolate powdered sugar, but haven't yet. If anyone has tried it, let me know how successful it was.

Author: Diana
    Subject: R: White and choc Fondant
    Date: Thu Mar 19 17:15:43 1998
    Message:
    A box of fondant(24 oz) in my area costs 5.99. as of 3/19/98. Making your own costs only $4.44 for 72 oz
    or$1.48 for 24 oz: a savings of $4.51 a box and only takes 20 minutes to make

    3 envelopes Knox Gelatin unflvored
    1/2 cup water
    1/4 cup white shortening
    1 cup clear corn syrup
    2 teaspoons clear flavoring (vanilla or creme bouquet)
    14 cups sifted confectioner's sugar (about 3 lbs, 12 oz)

    In a small heatproof bowl mix the knox gelatin and 1/2 cup cold water until dissolved. Set small bowl in a
    saucepan of water (like a double boiler) and stir to finish dissolving.Melt in shortening. Then add corn syrup
    and flavoring. Grease a very large bowl and fill with 14 cups sifted powdered sugar. Make a well in center of
    confectioner's sugar and pour in liquid mixture. Stir slowly to incorporate. Remove from bowl and knead on
    board dusted thickly with confectioner's sugar until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and place in airtight
    container at room temperature. Let fondant set for 8 hours. Can knead in more powdered sugar if stiffer
    fondant is deired. Store at room temperature for up to 2 months. Can be frozen. Refrigeration makes this
    recipe gummy.

    To make Chocolate fondant knead in Fudge base to desired flavor. Tastes like tootsie roll only better.

Author: Bruce
    Subject: R: White Fondant
    Date: Thu Mar 19 22:23:26 1998
    Message:
    When adding flavoring to the rolled fondant, can I use the concentrated oils or do have to stay with the
    alcohol-based flavorings?

Author: Diana
    Subject: Re: R: White Fondant
    Date: Sun Mar 22 01:14:37 1998
    Message:
    Yes, you can use the oil based flavorings I have used Hazelnut flvaoring by Lorann with good results. The
    only drawback is that the oil flavoring I use is expensive and you use a lot of drops. I don't have an exact
    count because I usually flavor to taste.

Author: Diana
    Subject: Correction
    Date: Thu Mar 19 19:47:56 1998
    Message:
    On the chocolate recipe Fudge base should read Fudge Supreme

Author: Amy
    Subject: Fudge Supreme?
    Date: Mon Mar 23 00:50:41 1998
    Message:
    Where can I find fudge supreme?

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: ISO White Rolled Fondant Recipe
    Date: Thu Mar 19 19:49:16 1998
    Message:
    Renee is correct. My white fondant is on my web page (under SPECIAL TECHNIQUES...lots of hints too

    Also, on the CHOCO-PAN, isn't this just a 'trade name' and by making one of the chocolate fondant recipes
    here, you really would have the same thing?

Author: Mary
    Subject: ISO Italian Wedding Cake
    Date: Wed Mar 18 10:14:20 1998
    Message:
    The recipe that I am looking for is not the same as the Italian Cream Cake that I have seen posted. This was a
    cake that I had tasted years ago while living in the Boston area. There were no nuts that I can remember and
    no coconut definatly. There was however fruit like strawberries etc in the filling. If anyone could find this
    recipe I would be most appreciative. It is in my memory as the best cake I have ever eaten surpassing even my
    own wedding cake which was modeled after what I could remember of this. Thanks.

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Italian Cream Cakes (R)
    Date: Wed Mar 18 12:47:07 1998

    Message:

    Here is a collection...take your pick! : )
    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Italian Cream Cake #2
    Categories: Cakes, Italian
    Yield: 12 servings

    -gjfc40b 3 Egg whites
    2 c Sugar 1/2 ts Salt
    1 c Buttermilk 1 ts Vanilla
    1 c Margarine 2 c Coconut
    2 c Flour 1 ts Lemon juice
    3 Egg yolks 1 c Chopped pecans
    1 ts Baking soda
    -------------ICING/MIX WELL-------------------------------
    1 lb Powdered sugar 1 ts Vanilla
    1/2 c Margarine 1 ts Lemon juice
    3 oz Cream cheese

    Mix all ingred. & beat well. Cream together, sugar & margarine. Add yolks, vanilla & lemon juice. Add
    buttermilk, flour, soda & salt. Add coconut & pecans. Beat egg whites until stiff. Fold into other mixture.
    Bake in
    9"x13" pan at 350 D. 25-30 mins

    I have omitted the coconut & pecans from the cake & added it to some of the icing & used it as a filling when I
    split the cake. Then I used the remainder of the icing to ice the cake. It was really good that way. MADELYN
    STRIETZEL....

    -----
 
 

    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Italian Rum Cake
    Categories: *p, Cakes
    Yield: 8 servings

    -PRODIGY GUEST CHEFS CKBK 1 c Butter;rm temp
    -MICHAEL ROBERTS 4 Eggs
    -Makes 8 to 10 Servings 3/4 c Sour cream
    3 Egg yolks 1 ts Vanilla extract
    1 c Sugar 1/2 ts Nutmeg
    2 1/4 c All-purpose flour 1/4 ts Baking soda
    2 c Milk 1/4 ts Salt
    Grated peel of 1/2 lemon 1/2 c Dark rum

    "In Italy, this cake is called Zuppa Inglese, which means English Soup. It is neither, but it is an Italian version
    of a "Fool"--a traditional Britishdessert."

    PREHEAT OVEN TO 350F. Beat the yolks & 1/4 cup sugar together in a mixingbowl & slowly add 1/4 cup
    flour.
    Meanwhile, place the milk in a sm pot & bring to the brink of boiling. Slowly pour the milk over the yolk
    mixture, then pour the whole thing backinto the pot. Place over medium heat & cook, stirring constantly, until
    the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat & mix in the lemon peel. Scrape into a plastic container, cover &
    place in the refrigerator to chill. Running your mixer at high speed, cream butter & remaining sugar together in
    a mixer fitted W/ a paddle. Add the eggs 1 at a time, waiting until the
    previous 1 has been absorbed. Add the sour cream & mix until incorporated. Add vanilla, nutmeg, baking
    soda & salt. Decrease the speed to medium, add remaining flour & mix an additional minute.
    Scrape the batter into a 1-quart round or rectangular cake pan, leaving 1/2-inch space at the top. Place on the
    middle rack of the oven for 50-to-60 minutes. The cake is done when the surface cracks & a toothpick
    inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove cake from the oven & let
    cool for 15 minutes before unmolding onto rack. When the cake is completely cool, slice it into 6 layers.
    Place the first layer on a cake platter & sprinkle W/ some of the rum. Cover the layer W/ some of the custard
    mixture. Place the second layer on top of the custard, sprinkle W/ rum & cover W/ more custard. Continue
    until the cake is assembled. Lightly spread the custard all over the surface of the cake. Refrigerate for 2 hours
    before serving.

    -----
    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Ilene's Italian Cream Cake
    Categories: Cakes
    Yield: 1 servings

    -ILENE MCHONE 1 ts Salt
    1/2 c Butter or marg. 1 c Buttermilk
    1/2 c Crisco 1 ts Vanilla
    2 c Sugar 1 c Flaked coconut
    5 Egg yolks 1 c Chopped pecans
    2 c Flour 5 Stiffly beaten egg yolks
    1 ts Soda

    Cream butter, shortening, & sugar until light & fluffy. Add yolks & vanilla. Beat well. Add sifted dry
    ingredients alternately with buttermilk. Add coconut & pecans. Fold in beaten egg whites.
    use 3 9" pans, 0r a 9 x 13' pan & a few cupcakes Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 min. or until it tests done. I
    have made it with apricot filling & it is great. You can find the filling in cake supply stores, use Solo brand
    filling from toe use apricot preserves.
    Can use apricot preserves.

    -----

    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Mom's Italian Cream Cake
    Categories: Cakes, Favorite
    Yield: 10 servings

    -ALISA ADAMS 1 cn Angel flake coconut
    1/2 c Marg. 1 c Chopped pecans
    1/2 c Shortening 5 Egg whites stiffly beaten
    2 c Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
    5 Egg yolks 8 oz Pk cream cheese
    2 c Cake flour 1/2 c Marg.
    1 ts Baking soda 1 pk Powdered sugar
    1 c Buttermilk 1 ts Vanilla
    1 ts Vanilla 1 c Chopped pecans

    Crean marg. & shortening together- add sugar-beat until smooth. Add egg yolks & beat well. Combine flour &
    soda- add to creamy mixture. Add buttermilk-stir in vanilla, coconut, & nuts. Fold in beaten egg whites.
    Bake in 3 greased & floured cake pans for 25 min. at 350 d.. Cream Cheese: Cream together cream cheese &
    marg.. Add powdered sugar & vanilla & mix well. Stir in pecans. This is my mothers recipe & has been a
    family favorite for as long as I can remember! Formatted to MM by Dolores McCann

    -----

    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Italian Rum Cake 2
    Categories: Cakes, Italian
    Yield: 12 servings

    -CAROL BROOM-SMITH
    1 lg Cool whip
    2 pk Stella Doro sponge cookies
    1/2 c Crushed walnuts
    2 pk Vanilla pudding not instant
    Maraschino cherries
    2 pk Choc. pudding not instant
    1 c Rum

    In a lg foil pan lasagne pan lay 2 rows of sponge cookies - all in one direction. Cook chocolate pudding as
    directed; while cooling, pour 1/2 c of rum over the cookies just to wet them. Pour cooled chocolate pudding
    over the cookies. Make the vanilla pudding as directed; while cooling lay the second row of sponge cookies
    over the chocolate pudding layering in the opposite direction of the first layer. Wet these W/ remaining rum.
    Pour the cooled vanilla pudding over this & let set one hour. Spread W/ cool whip
    all over the top. Sprinkle W/ nuts & dot W/ cherries. Enjoy! An easy no bake recipe that you might like. I
    makes a lg cake & is great for company.

    -----

    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Italian Cream Cake 3
    Categories: Cakes, Italian
    Yield: 12 servings

    -BERNIE REICHENBACH 2 c Sugar
    2 c Flour 1/2 ts Salt
    2 ts Baking powder 1/2 To 1 c walnuts
    2 Eggs 20 oz Cn crushed pineapples

    Mix all the dry ingred. first then the eggs & pineapple bake in a greased & floured bundt or tube pan at 350
    for about 20 to 30 min.. Baking time generally depends on your oven, I just got a new one, it's a convection &
    I love it. Faster & economical because you can lower the temperature.

    -----
    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Italian Rum Cake
    Categories: Cakes, Liquer
    Yield: 12 servings

    -PATTI ANDERSON
    1 cn Dark pitted cherries;-drained,soaked in rum overnight
    1 c Rum
    1 c Sliced canned peaches; drain

    1 lg Vanilla pudding *
    1 lg Chocolate pudding *
    2 pk Stella D'Oro anisette toast
    1/3 c Creme de cacao
    2/3 c Rum

    * do not use instant pudding

    Drain rum from cherries & add to creme de cacao mixture. Cook both puddings separately. Let cool. Line
    bottom of springform pan W/ cookies. Fill in all gaps. Drizzle rum & cream de cacao mixture over cookies,
    using 1/3 of mixture. Add peaches to vanilla pudding. Add cherries to chocolate pudding.
    In springform pan lined W/ cookies, place vanilla pudding w/peaches. Add another layer of cookies. Drizzle
    W/ half of remainder of rum mixture.
    Spread chocolate pudding W/ cherries on top. Layer again W/ cookies & drizzle remaining rum mixture.
    Place in refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Top W/ whipped cream at serving time.

    -----

    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Italian Cream Cake 4
    Categories: Cakes, Icings
    Yield: 16 servings

    -PATTI ANDERSON 1 c Buttermilk
    2 c Sugar 2 c Flour
    1 c Margarine or butter 1 ts Baking soda
    3 Eggs; separated 1/2 ts Salt
    1 ts Vanilla 2 c Coconut
    1 ts Lemon juice 1 c Pecans; chopped

    -----------------FROSTING----------------------------------
    1 lb Powdered sugar 1 ts Vanilla
    1/2 c Margarine or butter 1 ts Lemon juice
    3 oz Cream cheese

    Cream together sugar & butter. Add yolks, vanilla & lemon juice, mix well.
    Add buttermilk, flour, soda & salt, mix well. Add coconut & pecans. Beat egg whites until stiff, fold into
    mixture. Bake in 9x13" pan, at 350~ for 25-30 minutes. Frosting: Mix all ingredients & beat well.

    -----

    ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

    Title: Italian Sour Cream Cake
    Categories: Mix, Bundt, Nuts, Italian, Alcohol
    Yield: 16 servings

    1 c Coconut 2 tb Amaretto
    1/2 c Pecans; ground 1 tb Butter or marg; soften
    1 pk Butter Cake Mix 1 tb Corn syrup
    1 c Sour cream 3 ts Water
    1/2 c Amaretto 2 ts Pecans; ground
    1/2 c Water 6 Maraschino cherries
    2 Eggs 3 ts Water
    2 tb Amaretto 2 ts Pecans; ground
    1 tb Butter/marg;soften 6 Maraschino cherries
    1 tb Corn syrup

    about 3 minutes. Fold in coconut and ground pecans. Spread meringue on ream, aour cream, amaretto,
    watmaretto, water, eggs and 2 egg-yolks at low speed until moistened; beat 2 minutes at high speed. Pour
    batter into pan.
    Bake at 350~ for 55-65 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool upright in pan 10
    minutes; loosen sides and invert onto serving plate. Cool completely. In small bowl, blend powdered sugar,
    cocoa,
    2 tb amaretto, margarine, corn syrup and 2-4 tsp water until of desired spreading consistency. Spoon over top
    of cake, allowing some to run down sides. Garnish with ground pecans and cherries.

    -----

Author: Linda
    Subject: R - A new decorator's icing recipe
    Date: Wed Mar 18 09:20:46 1998

    Message:

    Author: Linda
    Subject: A new decorator's icing recipe
    Date: Mon Mar 16 22:29:00 1998
    Message:
    Last weekend I went to an out of town wedding and the wedding cake was one of the best I've ever eaten.
    The lady who made the cake was there and when I asked, she told me the cake was Pillsbury White Cake with
    2    teaspoons vanilla extract added. She also gave me here icing recipe and I made it this morning...mine was
    great   too! Here it is:

    1 1/2 cups Crisco
    1/2 cup CAKE Flour
    2 lbs Powdered Sugar
    1/3 Cup Boiling Water
    2 Teaspoons Vanilla
    1 Teaspoon Butter Flavoring
    1/2 Teaspoon Almond Extract
    COrn Syrup [to thin for frosting cake]

    Cream shortening and extracts for about 5 minutes.
    Sift the powdered sugar and flour together: add to shortening.
    Add the boiling water and mix at LOWEST SPEED until creamy and smooth.
    This with CORN SYRUP until desired consistency for frosting the cake.
    THis icing is delicious and pipes very easily.

Author: heather
    Subject: Re: Recipe
    Date: Thu Mar 19 15:09:02 1998
    Message:
    Does your icing crust well to put on color-flo decorations?
    Does it taste as greasy as the regular buttercream does?
    I'd appreciate any information you can give me on this icing... :)
    Thanks    Heather

Author: Linda
    Subject: More info about the recipe
    Date: Thu Mar 19 22:08:06 1998
    Message:
    Yes, this icing crusts well and should work well for color-flow. I usually cover my cakes with plastic wrap
    before delivery and the icing is dry in a couple of hours so that the plastic doesn;t stick.

    The flour seems to cut both the greasiness and the "all too sweet" flavor that many buttercreams have. It is
    perfect for white cake or another light flavor that you don;t want hidden behind the taste of the icing. Hope this
    helps.

Author: Heather
    Subject: Re: cake flour
    Date: Fri Mar 20 09:20:16 1998
    Message:
    Linda,
    Where do you find the cake flour?
    In the grocery store? or is there a specialty store?
    I saw at my grocery store ( the commissary for military folks)
    flour for bread, all purpose flour, self rising flour, and bread machine flour. Should it be in this area? If so
    then i will check out the regular grocery stores...
    Thanks for your responses Linda, and i can't wait to try your recipes. :)    Heather

Author: Mike Mccarty
    Subject: big boo boo
    Date: Fri Mar 20 14:35:18 1998
    Message:
    Linda. You probly couldn't understand what I was asking about in the reply above. Well, don't worry. I used
    vegi shortening instead of crisco shortening, what a mess. I could not get it thin enough. It was so stiff..forget
    it. Thanks for passing on a great recipe!! Mike

Author: Linda
    Subject: Give it another try Mike! [with crisco and WHITE corn syrup]
    Date: Fri Mar 20 17:40:24 1998

Author: Linda
    Subject: Cake Flour
    Date: Fri Mar 20 17:35:47 1998
    Message:
    You should be able to find cake flour in most any grocery. Look for Swan's Down, Martha White or Gold
    Medal [those are the brands around here]. Cake flour is usually sold in boxes rather than bags and often is
    shelved with the cake mix instead fo the regular flour. Good luck. You could use plain regular flour if you had
    to....I doubt it would make that much difference.

Author: lynne
    Subject: Re: Cake Flour
    Date: Sat Mar 21 19:42:17 1998
    Message:
    another alternative is to use white cake *mix*. that is if you regulary have it on hand :)
    try it......you will be surprised at how it makes the icing 'blend' with the cake.    lynne

Author: Debi
    Subject: Re: cake flour
    Date: Mon Mar 30 10:44:04 1998
    Message:
    I have found cake flour at the military store in the boxes and in round containers. They are there. At least 3
    years ago when I was around them. :).    Debi

Author: Mike Mccarty
    Subject: corn syrup
    Date: Fri Mar 20 08:21:21 1998
    Message:
    Well, I tried the recipe and it came out well but in my rush I used dark corn syrup. A no no. also, will the
    syrup really, really mix with the crisco. Will it seperate, and if I need it thin for piping what should I use to
    thin it way down? More corn syrup. Mike

Author: Linda
    Subject: Corn syrup in the icing
    Date: Fri Mar 20 17:29:36 1998
    Message:
    Hi Mike,
    I had excellent results with the recipe and had no problems with the corn syrup at all. I found I didn't need to
    thin much even for writing and leaves. Add a bit more syrup if needed or a few drops of warm water.

Author: Mike Mccarty
    Subject: R ; Thanks, Linda
    Date: Sat Mar 21 15:18:19 1998
    Message:
    Hi Linda.
    The recipe came out very well, thank you! As you probly read above, I used vegi shortening instead of Crisco.
    Thanks for posting a great recipe. Mike

Author: Susan
    Subject: ISO- buttercream toooo sweet
    Date: Tue Mar 17 19:12:36 1998
    Message:
    Hi guys, I need help once again. My family thinks that my buttercream is much to sweet. I tried putting flour in
    it, I have also tried using almond extract and it still is tooo sweet. I love Dolores's buttercream recipe but the
    family still says it is to sweet. What can I do???? HELP
    Thanks a million,
    Susan    PS they like the whipped topping but I don't. Plus it isn't easy to decorate with it.

Author: kelly
    Subject: re: buttercreme too sweet
    Date: Wed Mar 18 00:21:47 1998
    Message:
    hi susan, if you go to the old message board, linda has just posted a new recipe. i haven't tried it yet but will
    this weekend, but you can still take a look and see if you might want to try it. good luck, kelly

Author: Renee V
    Subject: Not too sweet...
    Date: Wed Mar 18 08:43:16 1998
    Message:
    Hi Susan,
    I hate to harp on it, but the whipped chocolate buttercream posted below is not too sweet since it only calls
    for 1 c of granulated sugar and has a whipped texture. However as I have stated, I have been having problems
    getting rid of the graininess of the granulated sugar. I plan to try superfine or instant disolving sugar next time.
    If you try it, let me know how it works. Renee

Author: MaraTLee
    Subject: ISO...Cake & icing recipe using sodas
    Date: Tue Mar 17 15:58:17 1998
    Message:
    My son saw a cake recipe that had as an ingredient "classic coke" so did the icing. Didn't get a chance to save
    it. He would like to make the cake for school. I've seen the one posted on the ICES web site but that is for a
    chocolate coke cake. There is another one out there that uses 7-up, I'm looking for that one also.
    Thanks.marajami@ptdprolog.net
 

Author: Bonnie P.
    Subject: 7-Up Cake
    Date: Wed Mar 18 07:35:34 1998
    Message:
    I have not tried this, but here is a recipe I have for 7-Up Cake:
    1/2 cup butter
    3 cups sugar
    1/2 cup cooking oil
    1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla flavor
    1 1/2 teaspoon almond flavor
    1 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
    5 eggs
    3 1/2 cups flour
    6 1/2 ounces 7-Up

    Cream butter, sugar, and oil; add flavorings and lemon juice. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each one.
    Add flour, one cup at a time, beating after each cup. Add 7-Up and beat, beat, beat. (The more this cake is
    beaten the better it is.) Bake in greased tube pan for approximately 1 hour at 350 degrees or until done.

    Also, if you are using a cake mix you can substitute soda for the water. I sometimes use a fruit flavored
    spritzer instead of the water to add a bit of taste to a white cake. The spritzer is not sold in the soda aisle in
    my grocery store. It is located near the distilled water and fruit drinks. The spritzer is carbonated, clear and
    comes in a variety of fruit flavors. (We like the raspberry!)

Author: Pat
    Subject: 7- Up Cake
    Date: Wed Mar 18 13:38:23 1998
    Message:
    I have a recipe that i use and it is vey easy and good as well. :
    3 Sticks Butter or Margarine
    3 Cups Granulated Sugar
    3 Cups Flour
    5 Large Eggs
    2 tsp. Lemon extract ( or more to taste)
    3/4 Cup 7-Up
    Cream butter and sugar together until fluffy.Add eggs one at a time . Add flour one cup at a time. Add extract
    and 7- up . Pour into 10 cup tube or bundt pan.
    Bake at 325 degrees aboout 1 Hr. 15 Min or until done.
    Hope this helps . Pat!

Author: Anonymous
    Subject: 7-Up Cake
    Date: Thu Mar 19 02:28:31 1998
    Message:
    I have not tried this cake. Maybe you may want to try and let me know.
    7-Up Cake
    1 Box of Lemon Supreme Cake Mix
    1 small box pineapple instant pudding
    4 eggs
    3/4 cup Wesson oul
    1 10 oz bottle 7-up
    Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix all cake ingredients together in a large mixing bowl and pour into a greased
    and floured 9 x 12 inch cake pan. Bake for 30 min. Cool and frost with pineapple frosting.

    Pineapple Frosting
    1 13 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained
    1/2 cup margarine
    1 2/2 cup sugar
    2 eggs
    3 TBS. all-purpose flour
    1 3 1/2 can angel flake coconut
    Mix ingredients for frosting except coconut in a medium saucepan and cook over low hear until thick fold in
    coconut.

Author: Ana
    Subject: Re- Chocolate Cake with Dobash Frosting
    Date: Sat Mar 21 20:43:22 1998
    Message:
    This cake is a real hit with my family
    Chocolate Cake
    1 pkg.(18.5 oz)devil's food cake mix
    1 pkg. ( 3 3/4 oz) instant chocolate pudding and pie filling
    1 can (12 oz) 7- UP
    1/2 cup butter
    3 eggs
    2 c.semi-sweet chocolate chips

    Preheat eletric oven to 325 F.Grease 13x9x2 inch baking pan.In large bowl of eletric mixer, combine cake
    ,mix,pudding,soda butter,and eggs.Mix following package directions.Fold in chocolate chips.Pour batter
    evenly into prepared pan.Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Cool and frost with Dobash Frosting.Makes 24 servings

    Dobash Frosting
    1 cup sugar
    2 cups water
    1/4 butter
    1/4 teaspoon salt
    1/3 cup cornstarch
    1/2 cup sweetened cocoa powder

    In a sauce pan,combine sugar,1 1/2 cups of the water,butter,and salt;bring to a boil. In a small bowl,combine
    the cornstarch, the remaining water, and cocoa. Stir until smooth; add to hot mixture.Cook on medium
    heat,stirring constantly,until smooth and thick. Remove from heat and continue stirring until cool . Frost cake

Author: kelly
    Subject: iso gumpaste recipe
    Date: Tue Mar 17 14:24:49 1998
    Message:
    need gumpaste recipe please to try and make pieces of a firemans hat thank you kelly

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: iso gumpaste recipe
    Date: Tue Mar 17 15:07:57 1998
    Message:
    You can find my gumpaste recipe here on my web site under RECIPES (from my opening page), then
    'gumpaste' with lots of hints.

    I think you could make a fireman's hat using the large doll's skirt pan.

    For that much RED, I would either airbrush the color on or you need LOTS of red. If you have Baker's
    Preferred red it won't be nearly as difficult. Takes much less. Don't think to make this with Wilton's
    'Christmas red' - the fondant never will get red with that stuff.

Author: Mike McCarty
    Subject: ISO urgent--sheet cake recipes
    Date: Tue Mar 17 13:19:12 1998
    Message:
    ISO--urgently need recipes for 18" and 24" sheet cakes--white or chocolate. Is there alink which gives
    ingredients for different sizes of cakes? Thanks, Mike McCarty

Author: kelly
    Subject: recipe: sheet cakes
    Date: Tue Mar 17 14:55:49 1998
    Message:
    hi mike, i'm not quite sure what exactly you are asking but if you are just wanting to know how much batter for
    these size cakes, then generally, 1/2 to 2/3 full, if this is not what you are asking, i'm sorry i didn't help .kelly

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: ISO urgent--sheet cake recipes
    Date: Tue Mar 17 15:13:21 1998
    Message:
    Use the very same cake recipe you use for layer cakes.

    One recipe (from scratch) is about the same amount as 1 box of cake mix. As someone else said...fill the pan
    1/2 to 2/3 full. Even box-cake-mix varies in volume.

    18"? do you mean 12 x 18 inch? This pan hold 2 1/2 recipes

    24"? full sheet? 18 by 24 inches? holds 5 cake mixes

Author: Mike Mccarty
    Subject: Thank You kelly and Dolores
    Date: Tue Mar 17 16:31:11 1998
    Message:
    There is a long story behind this and once I get this pan thing straightened out I'll tell you the Whole story.
    What I have is a 15 by 21 by 2 inch pan.I needed to know how many batches it takes to make a cake of this
    size, and if there is a general recipe guide for large cakes. Dolores; I believe, from what you say, I need five
    batches. Is this correct? In a pickle; Mike

Author: Dolores
    Subject: Re: Thank You kelly and Dolores
    Date: Mon Mar 30 11:07:41 1998
    Message:
    Sorry, I didn't open the note before.

    Mike, regardless of IF we are correct on the amount of cake mixes needed...just fill your pan between half to
    three-fourths of the way full. This way you can just not use the rest of the batter and the cake will be right. My
    guess is it will hold 2 1/2 - 3 cake mixes.

Author: judy
    Subject: iso italian cream
    Date: Mon Mar 16 16:30:23 1998
    Message:
    i know i seen this recipe some were but i can't fine it now,any help would be apreciated.
    thank you    judy

Author: Pauline
    Subject: R...ITALIAN CREAM CAKE
    Date: Mon Mar 16 20:37:59 1998
    Message:

    1 stick butter 1tsp.baking soda
    1/2 cup Crisco Oil 1 cup buttermilk
    2 cups sugar 1 tsp. vanilla
    5 egg yolks 1 cup black walnuts
    5 egg whites 1 cup coconut
    2 cups all purp. flour
    Blend together softened butter, oil, sugar and egg yolks; beat well. Add flour and soda alternately with
    buttermilk and vanilla. Fold in stiffly beaten egg whites. Stir in nuts and coconut. Grease and flour 3 layer
    pans. Pour into pans equally. Bake @ 350 for 25-30".
Frost with cream cheese icing:
    1 (8 oz. cream cheese 1 tsp vanill 1/2 cup margarine 1 box confectioner's    sugar
    Beat cheese and margarine until smooth. Add sugar and mix well. Add vanilla; spread on cooled cake and top
    with nuts, if desired.