Creative Baking Ideas for Cooler Weather!

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores creative baking ideas suitable for cooler weather, particularly focusing on festive themes like snowman cakes and window cookies. Participants share their personal experiences and seek clarification on techniques related to these baking concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares an idea for making snowman cakes using flat cake circles, inspired by a team member's suggestion.
  • Another participant expresses enthusiasm for the snowman cake idea but questions how to prevent batter from seeping out during baking.
  • One participant clarifies that the cake circles would be flat on a plate, drawing from their experience in cake decorating.
  • Another participant suggests baking the cake in a large pan and cutting the circles after cooling, seeking visual examples of the process.
  • One participant mentions a method using apricot jelly to seal crumbs before frosting, while another discusses the crum coat technique used by professional decorators.
  • One participant reflects on their long history with cake decorating, mentioning their self-taught journey through Wilton books.
  • Another participant shares a preference for buttercream icing over fondant, noting that fondant often lacks flavor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best methods for creating the snowman cakes, with some participants seeking clarification on techniques while others share their experiences. No clear consensus emerges regarding the preferred approach to baking and decorating.

Contextual Notes

The discussion is framed around seasonal baking ideas as the weather turns cooler, with references to upcoming holidays influencing the themes of the baking projects.

Who May Find This Useful

Participants in the consultant community interested in creative baking ideas and techniques for seasonal themes may find this discussion valuable.

baychef
baychef
Silver Member
Messages
2,833
Sharing an idea! One of my team members had a wonderful idea..she says she is not a "biscuit maker" so she sees showing people how to make little snow men cakes (just one dimentional) with the different circles.


Looking for other great ideas as well. I know that PC gave us "window cookie" ideas.

Because Labor Day is upon us, the weather here in the north is growing cooler and the Halloween candy has been out for a couple weeks now (still bugs me but Christmas will be out in a couple weeks)...I was wondering if the test kitchens are cooking up some great ideas to show people!
 
I missed the window cookie idea. Please share. I LOVE the snowman cake idea but how would you keep the batter in the circles for them to bake since there's no bottom?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
It would be just three cake circles on a plate. Flat not standing up! Because I used to decorate cakes and then watch the cake challenges on the TLC and the Food Network...I start over thinking it!!!
 
baychef said:
It would be just three cake circles on a plate. Flat not standing up! Because I used to decorate cakes and then watch the cake challenges on the TLC and the Food Network...I start over thinking it!!!
Click to expand...

I get that but because the cutters don't have a bottom wouldn't the batter seep out under the cutters before it's baked?
 
I assumed we would bake the cake in the large bar pan or large sheet pan and then cut the circles after they cool? Is that right?
I am such a visual learner... if you make them can you post your pics? Or a drawing? :)
 
quiverfull7 said:
I assumed we would bake the cake in the large bar pan or large sheet pan and then cut the circles after they cool? Is that right?
I am such a visual learner... if you make them can you post your pics? Or a drawing? :)
Click to expand...

That makes sense! And wasn't there a tip I saw somewhere on what to do on the cut surfaces to avoid crumbs ruining the frosting?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Yes, I am sorry, you would cut it from an already baked cake. You can take an apricot jelly and heat it with a little water, then brush a thin layer on the cake and let it cool a bit to sort of seal the crumbs in before you frost it.
 
Professional cake decorators do a crum coat with icing. It's a very thin layer, let it harden and then do a thicker coating as a 2nd layer. I've never tried the jelly method, but it sounds yummy!!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
I did them many years ago (started in 9th grade and I have been out of school now for...GULP...34 years now). Never had lessons but used Wilton books to learn. Also, once cakes became more than cake and frosting and I was in college, I no longer did them on a regular basis. I just marvel at The Cake Boss, Duff and so many more VERY talented cake decorators!:chef:
 
Yes, the fondant is cool in appearance, but I have to say that I've never had one that tasted good. :( I'm a "butter cream" icing girl ... all the way! LOL
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some easy baking recipes for cooler weather?

Some easy baking recipes for cooler weather include pumpkin bread, apple crisp, and cinnamon rolls. These recipes often utilize seasonal ingredients and can fill your home with warm, inviting aromas.

How can I incorporate seasonal flavors into my baking?

You can incorporate seasonal flavors by using ingredients like pumpkin, apples, pears, and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Try adding these flavors to muffins, cakes, and pies for a cozy touch.

What baking tools from Pampered Chef are essential for fall baking?

Essential baking tools from Pampered Chef for fall baking include the Classic Batter Bowl for mixing, the Stoneware Baking Pan for even baking, and the Adjustable Measuring Spoon for precise ingredient measurements.

Are there any tips for baking with kids during cooler weather?

Yes! Involve kids by letting them measure ingredients, mix batter, and decorate baked goods. Choose simple recipes that allow for creativity, like decorating cookies or making mini pies, to keep them engaged and excited.

How can I make my baked goods healthier for fall?

You can make your baked goods healthier by substituting ingredients, such as using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, reducing sugar, or adding fruits and nuts for extra nutrition. Consider using Greek yogurt or applesauce to replace some of the fat in recipes as well.

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