A Swirl of Rosettes Cake

Step 1

One day in advance: On waxed paper-covered board, use royal icing to make 85 tip 1M rosettes with tip 5 dot at center. Make extras to allow for breakage and let dry overnight.

Step 2

Prepare base using triple-thick cardboard or foamcore; wrap with foil. Ice smooth 2-layer cakes (for 18 in. cake, bake four 2 in. high half rounds to make a 4 in. high cake) in buttercream. Prepare cakes for push-in pillar construction. Position 18 in. cake on base. Mark cake sides at 2 in. intervals. At each division mark, pipe alternating tip 2 double and triple drop strings. First string is 1 1/2 in. deep, second string is 2 in. deep, third string is 3 in. deep. Pipe tip 3 dots (not connecting) on each drop string. Attach 1 rosette at each division point with buttercream, extending slightly above cake edge. Pipe a tip 12 dot between each rosette. Add tip 8 ball bottom borders on all tiers. Attach ribbon to side of base board. Position ornament

Step 3

† Note: Always place a separator plate, or cake board cut to fit, on the cake where you position any figurine or ornament. This protects both the cake and your keepsake. For extra stability, secure your figurine to the plate with double-stick craft tape.

**Note: The top tier is often saved for the first anniversary. The number of servings given does not include top tier.