Supermarket Cake Decorating Hacks That’ll Convince Everyone You’re Martha Stewart!

By Marie-Antoinette Issa.

If you're short on time, energy and the kind of skills that might convince your family that you’re a modern-day Martha Stewart, these supermarket cake decorating hacks are here to help transform a basic baked treat into something brilliant.

So, try your hand and plate up a masterpiece that looks like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen (without actually opening an oven). Then, bask in the accolades that will naturally follow. Spilling your secret is completely optional! 

 

While a few slices of strawberries are a solid start, to really elevate your store-bought cake into something special, get fancy with fruit.  Think sliced kiwi, glossy blackberries or even a juicy pile of pomegranate seeds scattered in the middle like a crown jewel. You can arrange them in a neat circle, lay them in colour-coordinated queues or sprinkle them liberally for an organic touch. A little glaze (apricot jam works wonders) on top will have them shining like they just walked off the red carpet.

Elevate your store-bought cake with the addition of a little extra frosting because when it comes to questions concerning quantity, the limit does not exist. Whip up a batch of sweet buttercream or get add a tangy touch with a cream cheese version and start layering it on top. Grab a piping bag and get your swirl on. Whether you go for a simple hand-written message, or pipe a pretty floral, a fabulous frosting job can elevate your cake from ‘oh’ to ‘woah’ in seconds. If you want to get really ritzy, add a drop of colour to the frosting. Pastels are Pinterest-worthy, while a pop of neon makes for a showstopper that’s almost too pretty to slice.

 

Sprinkles are the ultimate shortcut to a festive look. Not only are they fun, but they also add a touch of colour and texture that can make even the most basic cake look like a showstopper. Go for the classic rainbow sprinkles, select shades that suit the theme of the occasion, or pick up some edible glitter to make the cake shine. 

Chocolate is always a good idea! Especially when it’s the sophisticated shard style that can transform your simple slab into something spectacular. To DIY, melt some chocolate and pour it onto a lined baking tray to set. Once it’s solidified, break into pieces (different sizes are encouraged) and arrange them on top of your cake like you just discovered chocolate heaven. The sharp, jagged pieces look so elegant and chic that no one will ever guess you didn’t spend hours slaving over a hot oven. 

 

Whether it’s a cheeky figurine, a sparkly candle or a humorous sign that says ‘Let them eat cake’, the right topper can make a huge impact with minimal effort. If you’re feeling particularly extra, get a mini balloon bouquet, or throw in a couple of macarons for that ‘I’m basically a professional baker’ aesthetic. 

Sometimes, all your cake needs is a little touch of magic. A dusting of powdered sugar can transform the entire vibe of your cake; or, for an even more magical touch, try edible gold dust or shimmer spray. Your cake will glow like it’s been kissed by the cake Gods.