Fresh florals have a magical way of transforming ordinary cakes into stunning, Instagram-worthy masterpieces. However, incorporating these natural beauties onto confectionery requires careful preparation to ensure they're not only visually appealing but also safe for consumption. Here's a comprehensive guide on prepping fresh florals for cakes:
1. Selecting Fresh Florals
Choosing the right flowers is crucial. Opt for organic, pesticide-free blooms from a reputable source. Certain flowers like roses, pansies, violets, and lavender are safe for culinary use. Always verify the edibility of the flowers beforehand. Your prep may change per flower request. Babys breath flowers are toxic so please be sure to notify your customers in these choices.
2. Washing the Flowers
Gently rinse the flowers under cold running water to remove dirt, insects, or residual chemicals. Avoid soaking them, as excessive moisture can wilt the petals.
3. Pruning and Removing Unwanted Parts
Trim the stems to the desired length, leaving enough for insertion into the cake. Remove any leaves, thorns, or parts that aren't edible to prevent unwanted elements from touching the cake's surface.
4. Wrapping Stem Ends in Food-Safe Plastic
Cover the trimmed ends of the stems with food-safe plastic wrap to create a barrier between the flowers and the cake. This step ensures no sap or moisture from the stems seeps into the cake. I use Glad Cling Wrap, but you can use any food safe plastic wrap.
5. Adding Food-Safe Wires
For delicate flowers or those with short stems, gently insert a food-safe wire into the base of the flower, securing it without damaging the bloom. I often will even put the wire on the side of the stem. This step offers additional support and ease in handling while decorating the cake and inserting your flowers. I use these exact wires from Wilton.
6. Securing with Food-Safe Floral Tape
Wrap the base of each flower stem that has be plastic prepped with wire (if used) with food-safe floral tape. The tape not only secures the flowers but also provides an additional safe, non-toxic layer between the stems and the cake. The best food safe floral tape is from Michaels. I don't use regular floral tape because the glue in the tape is non-edible.
7. Placing on the Cake
Carefully arrange the prepared flowers on the cake's surface. Lightly press them into the frosting or fondant, ensuring they're positioned securely without damaging the cake. Only push the flowers as far as the tape covers, the actual stem of the flower should never come into contact with the cake.
8. Tips for Safe Display
Avoid placing flowers directly onto cream or naked cakes, as moisture from the cake can wilt the blooms faster.
Inform consumers about the presence of florals, especially if certain flowers may trigger allergies.
Remove the flowers before serving the cake to avoid any accidental ingestion of non-edible parts.
Additional Safety Precautions
Research Edible Flowers: Familiarize yourself with safe-to-eat flowers and their potential allergens or toxic parts.
Consult Professionals: If uncertain about a flower's edibility or safe handling, seek advice from florists or culinary experts.
Keep it Organic: Prefer organic flowers to avoid exposure to harmful pesticides or chemicals.
Conclusion
Decorating cakes with fresh florals elevates their aesthetic appeal, but it's crucial to handle and prepare these blooms thoughtfully. By following these steps, you not only ensure a visually stunning cake but also prioritize the safety and well-being of those enjoying your delectable creation. So, let your creativity bloom and adorn your cakes with nature's vibrant beauty, all while ensuring a safe and delightful experience for everyone indulging in your masterpiece!
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