Baker how-to

How to Frost a Layer Cake

A clean finish starts with a crumb coat.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

A clean finish starts with a crumb coat. In short: level; stack; apply, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Level cake layers.

  2. Stack with filling.

  3. Apply a thin crumb coat.

  4. Chill to set.

  5. Apply a final coat of frosting.

  6. Smooth with a bench scraper and decorate.

Safety reminders for bakers

  • Use oven mitts and watch for burns
  • Lift flour bags properly
  • Keep mixers guarded and turn them off before reaching in
  • Follow allergen labeling

Scaling · Baker’s percentage · Proofing · Fermentation · Gluten · Lamination: see the full baker glossary.

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