When it comes to decorating cakes, the addition of flowers can transform a simple dessert into an artistic masterpiece. However, the choice between using real or faux flowers is not just about aesthetics—it's also about safety, preparation, and placement. In this blog, we'll delve into the nuances of using both real and faux flowers on cakes, including the incorporation of dried flowers, to help you make the best choice for your culinary creations.
Real Flowers: Beauty and Precautions
Real flowers bring a natural and fresh look to cake decoration. The key is to choose flowers that are not only beautiful but also safe to come into contact with food. Edible flowers like roses, violets, calendulas, and nasturtiums are popular choices. However, even if a flower is edible, it's crucial to ensure it has been grown without the use of pesticides or harmful chemicals. Always source flowers from reputable growers who offer organic, edible varieties specifically meant for culinary use.
Preparation: Before placing real flowers on a cake, they must be prepared properly to ensure they are clean and safe:
- Wash them gently under cold water to remove any dirt or potential pesticides.
- Pat them dry delicately with a paper towel.
- For non-edible but safe flowers, consider wrapping the stems with floral tape or placing them into floral tubes before adding them to the cake to prevent direct contact with the cake. We also love to dip the stems into chocolate and let it dry. This is a simple and food safe way to create that crucial barrier between the flower and food.
Placement: When placing flowers on a cake, consider their arrangement and how they complement the shape and size of the cake. Insert the stems directly into the cake or into a protective barrier like floral foam or wrapped straws cut to size, which can then be inserted into the cake.
Faux Flowers: The Safe, Reusable Alternative
Faux flowers offer a fantastic alternative to real flowers, especially when there's concern over allergens or the availability of edible flowers. These flowers need to be made of food-safe materials; food-grade silicone is a common choice for faux flowers designed for cake decorating.
Preparation: Faux flowers are generally ready to use straight from the package but give them a thorough wash in warm soapy water, rinse, and dry before placing them on the cake to ensure they are free from any contaminants.
Placement: Like real flowers, faux flowers can be positioned by inserting the stems into the cake. Ensure any wires or non-edible parts are completely covered or kept out of direct contact with the cake.
Dried Flowers: An Elegant Touch
Dried flowers are gaining popularity in cake decorating for their rustic and elegant appearance. Like with fresh flowers, it’s important to use only those that are food-safe and free from any chemical treatment.
Preparation: Dried flowers should be prepared by ensuring they are completely dry and free from any mold or mildew. Store them in a cool, dry place until ready to use.
Placement: Due to their fragile nature, handle dried flowers with care. They can be laid flat on the cake or affixed with a small dab of icing. For flowers with stems, you might still want to use the straw method for insertion to avoid any direct cake contact.
Whether choosing real, faux, or dried flowers for cake decorating, the priority should always be safety and suitability for consumption, followed by aesthetic considerations. Each type of flower brings its own unique beauty and character to a cake, allowing for personalized and creative expressions in cake design. Always remember to prepare and place them thoughtfully to ensure that your floral cake is not only beautiful but also safe to enjoy.
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