The Ultimate Guide to Cake Scrapers
Perfecting Your Buttercream and Ganache Finishes
Hey cake decorators! If you've ever struggled with getting that perfectly smooth finish on your cakes, you're not alone. The secret weapon? In my opinion, cake scrapers! These handy tools, also known as bench scrapers or icing smoothers, are your best friend when it comes to creating professional-looking surfaces with both buttercream and ganache. In this post, let's chat about the different types of scrapers—metal and plastic—and the various sizes, so you’ll know exactly what to use and when. Plus, don’t miss our accompanying YouTube video below.
Why Cake Scrapers Are a Game Changer
I believe cake scrapers are must-haves in your decorating toolkit. I have several different kinds of scrapers, which I use at various times. They help you get that smooth, even surface that makes your cakes look like they just walked out of a bakery. Whether you’re using buttercream or ganache, the right scraper can make all the difference between a homemade look and a pro-level finish.
My first scraper was a white plastic one with an angled edge. It’s advantage is that it doesn’t scrape or damage the cake below when used, however it also doesn’t allow great control. Because it’s edge is not nice and sharp, it doesn’t provide a super clean finish. Hence, I don’t tend to use this very much anymore.
Metal vs. Plastic Scrapers: What to use?
Metal Scrapers:
- Tough and Durable: These are built to last and give you that sharp, clean line every time. These are my all time favourites.
- Great for Ganache: You can warm them easily to help smooth ganache to a glossy finish.
- When to Use: Go for metal when you’re working on larger cakes and need that super-smooth finish.
Plastic Scrapers:
- Very sturdy: These particular ones are more rigid, which makes them great for when you need a perfectly straight finish.
- Light as a Feather: Perfect for long decorating sessions since they’re easy on the hands.
- When to Use: Best for when you want a stencilled finish as the scraper is not flexible.
Shorter vs. Taller Scrapers: Which to Grab?
Shorter Scrapers:
- More Control: These give you precision, ideal for smaller cakes or detailed sections.
Taller Scrapers:
- Cover More Ground: Perfect for smoothing those taller cakes quickly and evenly. I like to use my taller scraper for my double barrel cakes, and for the top surface of 10 inch wide cakes and larger.
Scrapers with measurements:
I even have several scrapers that have measurements along the side. This is great to check the level of your cake as you are scraping back your buttercream or ganache and levelling the top.
Check Out Our YouTube Video
Head over to our YouTube channel where we show you exactly which scrapers we have collected and been using for more than 10 years!
Tips for Using Cake Scrapers
1. Keep It Clean: Wipe your scraper down after each pass to keep things neat and tidy.
2. Consistent Pressure: Steady pressure is key to getting that smooth finish, no matter which type you’re using.
3. Angle Is Everything: Hold the scraper at a slight angle to the cake for the best results, letting the edge glide smoothly over the surface.
Picking the right cake scraper can make a huge difference in how your cake turns out. By getting to know the ins and outs of metal vs. plastic and the perks of shorter vs. taller scrapers, you can choose the perfect tool for every cake you bake.
And don’t forget to watch our YouTube video for a show-and-tell of our collection of scrapers. With the right scraper, your cakes will be smoother than ever!
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