How To Create Stunning Custom Cakes With Edible Prints

By Author: john
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Custom cakes are a great way to make any occasion special. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or corporate event, edible prints can take your cake decorating skills to the next level. They allow you to add personalised designs, photos, and messages with ease. If you’ve never worked with edible prints before, don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create beautiful cakes using edible images.

What Are Edible Prints?
Edible prints are images printed on special edible paper using food-safe ink. These prints can be applied to cakes, cupcakes, and cookies to add stunning designs without the need for advanced decorating skills. The most common types of edible papers used are:
Icing Sheets – Thin layers of icing that produce vibrant, high-quality images. They blend well into buttercream and fondant.
Wafer Paper – A stiffer, translucent paper made from potato starch. It’s great for simple designs and cut-out decorations.
Chocolate Transfer Sheets – Special sheets designed to transfer edible images onto chocolate.

Choosing the Right ...
... Cake for Edible Prints
While edible prints can be applied to almost any cake, some surfaces work better than others. The best cake bases for edible images include:
Buttercream Cakes – Provides a smooth and slightly sticky surface, making it easy to attach the print.
Fondant Cakes – Offers a flat, firm base for crisp and clean edible image application.
Ganache-Coated Cakes – Smooth ganache works well, but the surface should not be too wet.

Avoid applying edible images directly onto whipped cream or excessively moist surfaces, as the print may break down or fade.

How to Apply Edible Prints to Cakes
Step 1: Prepare Your Cake
Make sure your cake is levelled and smooth. If using buttercream, let it crust slightly before applying the print. For fondant cakes, ensure the surface is dry and free from excess cornflour or icing sugar.
Step 2: Trim the Edible Print
Carefully trim your edible print to the desired shape using clean, dry scissors. Avoid handling the printed side too much to prevent smudging.
Step 3: Peel and Place the Image
Gently peel the edible image from its backing sheet. If it sticks, place it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up.
For Buttercream Cakes: Lightly mist the back of the edible print with a little water or apply it directly onto the cake.
For Fondant Cakes: Use a thin layer of edible glue, piping gel, or a damp brush to adhere the image.
For Chocolate Surfaces: Place the image on melted chocolate and let it set.
Step 4: Smooth and Set
Once placed, gently smooth out any air bubbles with a dry, soft brush or your fingertips. Let the edible print set for a few hours before adding any extra decorations.

Tips for a Perfect Edible Print Cake
Use high-quality images – The better the image resolution, the clearer your edible print will be.
Avoid too much moisture – Too much water or condensation can cause the image to fade or dissolve.
Handle with care – Edible prints are delicate, so always keep them in a dry, cool place before use.
Store cakes properly – Once applied, store your cake in a cool, dry area. Avoid refrigeration as condensation can blur the print.

Creative Ways to Use Edible Prints
Edible images aren’t just for covering cakes! Here are some creative ways to use them:
Cupcake Toppers – Cut small images and place them on buttercream cupcakes.
Cookie Decorations – Use wafer paper to decorate sugar cookies.
Themed Cake Designs – Create character cakes, corporate logos, or personalised photo cakes with ease.
Layered Effects – Add depth by layering cut-out edible images onto cakes.

Using edible prints is an easy and effective way to create professional-looking cakes without the need for advanced decorating skills. Whether you’re a home baker or a professional, edible images allow you to add stunning, personalised designs effortlessly. With the right techniques and a little practice, you’ll be able to impress your family, friends, or clients with beautifully decorated custom cakes.

At Decor Bake, we’re passionate about helping you bring your sweetest creations to life. Whether you’re crafting a show-stopping cake, decorating cookies, or making delightful chocolates, we have everything you need—from premium edible prints to personalised baking tools. Our high-quality products make decorating effortless, so you can focus on creating stunning treats that impress. Explore our collection today and take your baking to the next level!