How to Decorate Cake Sides with Chocolate Chips

Decorating a cake with chocolate chips is a simple yet effective way to add texture and flavor to your dessert. In this guide, you will learn how to decorate cake with chocolate chips using various methods, ensuring a stunning and delicious finish every time. With a bit of practice and the right tools, you can master this technique and impress your guests.

Chocolate chip-covered cake with smooth frosting on a wooden cake stand.

Part 1: Preparation and Necessary Tools

When you want to decorate a cake with chocolate chips, preparation is key. This involves choosing the right type of chocolate chips, prepping the cake, and setting up your workstation. By getting these fundamentals right, you ensure that the chocolate chips stick to the cake’s frosting and stay in place. The steps outlined below will help you efficiently decorate cake with chocolate chips and create a visually appealing masterpiece.

Method 1: Hand-Pressing Chocolate Chips

The hand-pressing method is straightforward and gives you control when you decorate cake with chocolate chips. By applying gentle pressure, you can create an even layer of chocolate chips on the cake’s sides. This method is great for beginners and offers an easy way to practice your cake decorating skills.

Essential Tools and Ingredients

To get started, you’ll need a few basic tools and ingredients:

Tools:

  • Offset spatula
  • Icing smoother
  • Cake turntable for easy rotation
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients:

  • Chocolate chips (mini or regular size, depending on your design preference)
  • Frosting (buttercream or ganache)
  • A cake with a basic layer of frosting

Choosing the Right Chocolate Chips

The quality and size of the chocolate chips play a crucial role in the final look of your cake:

  • Types of Chocolate Chips: Opt for dark, milk, or white chocolate chips based on your flavor preference. Mini chips are easier to handle and provide more even coverage.
  • Quality: Use high-quality chocolate chips for a smoother and more professional finish.
  • Flavor: Consider the flavor of the cake and frosting when choosing the type of chocolate chips. For instance, dark chocolate chips pair well with rich chocolate or caramel-flavored cakes.

For an in-depth guide on using pourable chocolate ganache, check out this Pourable Chocolate Ganache Recipe.

Preparing the Cake

Properly preparing your cake is essential for the chocolate chips to adhere effectively:

  • Chill the Cake: Before applying the chocolate chips, refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes. This will firm up the frosting, making it easier for the chocolate chips to stick.
  • Apply an Even Frosting Layer: Use an offset spatula to apply a smooth layer of frosting around the cake’s sides. The frosting acts as the “glue” for the chocolate chips.
  • Check Frosting Consistency: The frosting should be slightly tacky but not too soft. If it’s too soft, the chocolate chips will slide off, while overly firm frosting will make it difficult for the chips to stick.

For more cake decorating ideas, you might want to explore Natasha’s Guide to Decorating Cakes with Chocolate.

Prepping the Workstation

Before applying the chocolate chips, make sure your workstation is well-organized:

  • Place the cake on a turntable for smooth rotation during the application process.
  • Lay a strip of parchment paper around the base of the cake to catch any stray chocolate chips.
  • Keep your chocolate chips in a shallow bowl for easy access while decorating.

Chocolate chip-covered cake with smooth frosting on a wooden cake stand.

Part 2: Techniques for Applying Chocolate Chips

Different Methods to Apply Chocolate Chips

There are several ways to apply chocolate chips to the sides of a cake. Each technique has its pros and cons, so choose the one that works best for you.

Method 1: Hand-Pressing Chocolate Chips

The hand-pressing method is straightforward and provides great control over the placement of the chocolate chips.

Steps:

  1. Hold the cake at a slight angle on the turntable.
  2. Grab a small amount of chocolate chips in your hand.
  3. Gently press the chocolate chips onto the sides of the cake, starting at the bottom and working your way up.
  4. Rotate the cake slowly, applying chocolate chips evenly as you go.

Tips:

  • Keep the cake chilled to prevent the chocolate chips from sliding off.
  • Use mini chocolate chips for a more even and professional finish.

Pros: Provides precise control over placement.
Cons: Can be time-consuming, especially for large cakes.

Method 2: Using Parchment Paper

If you want a cleaner and more uniform application, the parchment paper method is an excellent choice.

Steps:

  1. Cut a strip of parchment paper to match the height and circumference of the cake.
  2. Pour a generous amount of chocolate chips onto the parchment strip.
  3. Carefully press the parchment paper strip with the chocolate chips against the side of the cake.
  4. Gently peel away the parchment paper, leaving the chocolate chips adhered to the frosting.

Tips:

  • This method is ideal for cakes with a thicker layer of frosting.
  • Ensure the chocolate chips are spread evenly on the parchment strip for a neat finish.

Pros: Allows for a more even distribution.
Cons: Requires a bit more handling and patience.

Method 3: Using Ganache or Buttercream

Applying a layer of ganache or additional buttercream can provide a sticky surface for the chocolate chips to adhere to.

Steps:

  1. Prepare a smooth layer of ganache or buttercream.
  2. Apply the ganache or buttercream to the cake’s sides.
  3. Press the chocolate chips into the ganache while it’s still wet.
  4. Chill the cake to set the chocolate chips in place.

Tips:

Pros: Creates a smooth, professional look.
Cons: Requires more preparation time.

Method 4: Using a Squeeze Bottle for Drips

This technique involves using melted chocolate chips to create a drip effect on the cake before applying more chocolate chips.

Steps:

  1. Melt chocolate chips into a ganache.
  2. Pour the ganache into a squeeze bottle.
  3. Drip the ganache along the cake’s edge, allowing it to run down the sides.
  4. Sprinkle chocolate chips onto the drips before they set.

Pros: Adds a dramatic visual element to the cake.
Cons: Requires a bit of practice to master.

Decorative Variations

  • Combine chocolate chips with other decorations like sprinkles or chocolate curls.
  • Use the chocolate chips to create patterns, such as horizontal stripes or zig-zags.

For creative cake inspiration, check out the Chocolate and Strawberry Cake recipe.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Chocolate chips not sticking: Make sure the frosting is slightly tacky. If necessary, add a bit more frosting and press the chips again.
  • Uneven distribution: Use an icing smoother to gently press the chocolate chips into place.
  • Melted chocolate chips on hands: Work quickly with chilled chocolate chips to avoid melting from body heat.

FAQs

Q1: How do I store a cake decorated with chocolate chips?

Store the cake in a cool, dry place. If refrigerating, cover it with an airtight container to prevent moisture from affecting the chocolate chips.

Q2: Can I apply chocolate chips to a fondant-covered cake?

Yes, but you will need to use a sticky medium, such as a thin layer of ganache or piping gel, to help the chocolate chips adhere.

Q3: Will the chocolate chips fall off when I slice the cake?

Properly pressing the chocolate chips into a tacky frosting layer will ensure they stay in place when slicing. Use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion for best results.

Final Touches and Serving Tips

  • Handle the cake carefully to prevent dislodging the chocolate chips.
  • When slicing, use a warm knife for a clean cut, wiping the blade between slices.

By following these techniques and tips, you can easily decorate your cake with chocolate chips, creating a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with different designs and flavors to make your cakes unique. For more cake recipes and decorating ideas, take a look at What Makes German Chocolate Cake German.

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