Discover the Best Cake Decorating Classes in NYC
Vibrant New York City has long been a place of creativity and exploration, so why not learn cake decorating in the Big Apple? The skill of cake decorating can turn an everyday creation into something that is truly worth marveling…and eating. By learning the essentials like spatula icing, piping, and how to work with fondant, every occasion can be turned into a celebration worth remembering. Both creative and technical, cake decorating requires a steady hand, an artistic mind, and a willingness to learn. All the techniques and fine detailing skills needed can be learned at a local NYC cake decorating class and there are plenty of options to choose from.
Why You Should Learn Cake Decorating in NYC
Cake decorating offers so many benefits. Focusing solely on the art and technique of cake decorating can be a fun and stress-relieving hobby, helping to create calm in a controlled yet creative environment. Those with the skill set can create thoughtful gifts for others, one-of-a-kind creations that will mean so much more than a store-bought item. The craft of cake decorating can even create connections to a larger community of passionate decorators and foster friendships built on similar interests. With local groups like New York City Cake Decorators Meetup on Facebook, there are endless avenues for pursuing this passion while also forming a tight-knit circle of friends.
Additionally, professional cake decorating can offer a career that is both technical and creative. Experts can work in a bakery department at a grocery store or a boutique cake shop, or even create their own small business or extra side hustle. It’s also a great additional skill set to have for current professional bakers, building upon the foundations of baking and eliminating the need for hiring additional help for the intricate final details.
In-Person Cake Decorating Classes & Schools in NYC
There are several in-person class options available in the NYC area. The New York Cake Academy, located in Chelsea, has a Cake Decorating 101 course for those new to the craft, as well as a Cake Decorating 102 course for those looking to level up. Centrally located in Manhattan, both courses are one 2.5-hour class focused on establishing techniques for filling, piping, and creating decorative floral arrangements.
The New York Cake Academy also offers a variety of other courses similar to cake decorating. Participants can learn to bake and decorate their crystal-inspired cake in the Geode Cake course. Students will master creating marble patterns in fondant, cake carving, and how to make their very own geode. Cupcake Decorating 101 will teach students to pipe the perfect cupcake. Participants will learn how to work with American buttercream and a variety of piping techniques like stars, zig-zags, ruffles, and rosettes. Additionally, they offer a Buttercream Floral Cupcake course for all levels. Students will learn how to use a petal tip, flower nail, and all the not-so-secret tips and tricks for crafting delicious bouquets.
The SugarRoom in Sunnyside, Queens offers a Piping and Spatula Techniques course. This four-hour course will focus on the technical aspects of cake decorating. Covering topics like how to correctly use a pastry bag, different ways to create a variety of borders, and how to master spatula techniques, this course is offered in both English and Spanish for a more inclusive learning environment.
Additionally, SugarRoom also offers a course called Introduction to Royal Icing Oriental Extension Work that is open to all levels. This course focuses on how to create false color patterns to transfer onto dummy cakes. Students will be piping royal icing and learning all the tips and tricks for fine detailing.
Virtual Cake Decorating Classes & Schools
Online cake decorating classes are a more flexible option for those who wish to travel or commute less. Typically there are more options available virtually and you can attend from anywhere. While students will need to acquire their materials and equipment for these classes, they get the advantage of learning all the tips and tricks from the comfort of their own homes (or any chosen space)!
There currently aren’t online cake decorating classes widely available, but there are several baking courses that will teach similar skill sets. "Great British Bake Off" Classics teaches students how to recreate their favorite recipes from the binge-worthy show. Participants can try their hand at making a Victoria sandwich cake with raspberry jam and whipped cream, and learn to make savory scones with British condiments and sharp English cheddar, all while sipping a cup of English breakfast tea. Each student will receive a take-home recipe for lemon poppy-seed drizzle cake, too!
The Sweet & Savory Cream Puff course, offered by The Good Food Project, is another great option. Hosted on Zoom, participants will learn the art of pâte à choux (puff pastries), creating both a savory option and a classic version with chocolate ganache and whipped cream that are sure to wow any guest.
Sure to brighten any day, macaron making is a unique and creative skill set. In this French Macaron Step-by-Step class, students will make, flavor, pipe, and bake their very own macarons! This class will share knowledge on the best ingredients, how to add a burst of flavor to these colorful treats, and how to ensure each macaron always turns out perfectly.
Private Cake Decorating Group Classes in NYC
CourseHorse offers a variety of private cooking and baking classes for businesses and organizations in NYC. Organizers can customize group size with zero booking fees, and can even change the number of participants after booking, should plans change. Confirmation will be sent within 24 hours of booking and some classes may even offer additional services like in-person venue space, catering, or the ability to come directly to a requested home or office, making each private class a truly one-of-a-kind experience. To learn more about available options in the New York City area that aren’t currently listed, reach out through the contact form on CourseHorse’s website.
