Happy Independence Day! Although not everyone remembers specifically why we are celebrating today, I still thought it was reason enough to bake a cake.
At first I intended to create my first two-tiered cake. After consideration, I realized that I didn’t know quite enough people to make that much cake for. However, I’m hoping a very special birthday cake order I have for next weekend will finally allow me to make a two tiered cake.
When I say that this cake was difficult I am not exaggerating. My initial idea was to make a square cake then a certain boyfriend of mine decided to inspire me with the idea to make Uncle Sam’s top hat. What a wonderful idea! (NOT!)
Cutting the square cakes I had already baked into a circular hat shape was not simple and it took three attempts, one fondant cover, one complete decoration, and a complete mental breakdown to finally get the shape.
After I finally relaxed…remade the ribbon and let the bows sit overnight, I was able to carefully put together the cake. The boy helped me achieve the final shape and the next morning I was able to decorate without quite as much stress.
Here are some shots of the final “Uncle Sam’s Top Hat”
I am satisfied with the final cake. However, I think I attempted to do to many new things with this design.
First, I knew I wanted a bow on the top of the cake. Surprisingly that was the easiest part of the process and I’ll definitely try it again.
Then, I wanted to cover the cake board so that it resemebled the brim of the hat. My initial attempt was all blue. To say that was a disaster is no exaggeration. Then, on my first completely decorated attempt, I made red and white stripes. I am actually sad I did not do that for the final cake because I really liked how that turned out. Finally, I decided to cover it in white, and use some stars as details. I’m pretty sure the reason the blue was so unsuccessful was because I rushed the process. Next time, I will make sure to do it well ahead of time.
Finally, getting the correct shape seemed to be what really threw me for a loop. When I did the Mac cake, I took my time planning and cutting out a template. This time, I thought I’d be able to do it freehand. What a mistake.
Practice makes perfect…and that’s my goal.
Happy Fourth!
-A