Reddit mentions: The best icing dispensers & tips

Mix and match as you see fit :)

This will add some detail to the sides of cakes. I like it more than the Wilton one (that is not textured) it’s thinner so it leaves a sharper edge.

https://www.amazon.com/Ateco-1447-Decorating-Icing-Smoother/dp/B0000VOOXI/ref=sxbs_bbp_recs_sx_m_p_v1?keywords=wilton+turntable&pd_rd_i=B0000VOOXI&pd_rd_r=1dd000e0-6a20-47aa-a7eb-1430dd1e605c&pd_rd_w=lxEhH&pd_rd_wg=2lLOU&pf_rd_p=c76ba563-2cae-47e4-929a-947a3c225819&pf_rd_r=62XTE33MCSK5G4ATB62S&qid=1572799240

Turn table: there are “better ones” but much more expensive. This is my favorite Wilton one. It’s elevated- which makes it easier to pick up larger cakes off of it. Also if you are piping on the side it’s a little taller so you don’t have to crouch so low.

https://www.amazon.com/Wilton-Trim-n-turn-Decorating-Turntable-Supplies/dp/B00AQ7ISMO/ref=mp_s_a_1_32?keywords=wilton+turntable&qid=1572799358&sr=8-32

9” offset spatula. Wilton changed their handles a while ago.. and I think the new metal blade is too flexible on the new ones- I don’t find the new ones as comfortable and don’t think they do as good of a job. So I like the old ones (couldn’t find one) or these Ateco ones.


https://www.amazon.com/Ateco-1305-75-Inch-Stainless-Dishwasher/dp/B0000VLEU4/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?keywords=wilton+9+inch+angled+spatula&qid=1572799468&sprefix=wilton+9%E2%80%9D+i&sr=8-7

Cake Leveler: this will help greatly with getting nice flat tops- even if her cakes dome. The Wilton one is a great one for the price, and for smaller cakes. For larger cakes, skip the large version and get a bigger than you think serated knife. Living the dream is the 3rd option... the Agby double blade!

https://www.amazon.com/Wilton-Leveler-Small-10-Inch-415-0165/dp/B007E8KCFY/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=wilton+cake+leveler%2C+small%2C+10-inch&qid=1572799751&sprefix=wilton+cake+level&sr=8-3

Style of knife: may be able to get at restaurant supply store


https://www.amazon.com/Mercer-Culinary-M23210-Millennia-10-Inch/dp/B000PS1HS6/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=serated+knife+large+10&qid=1572799849&sr=8-3


Out of budget and not needed for her.. but a dream!

http://www.agbayproducts.com/agbay-double-blade



Tips. I recommend Wilton to start because most blogs will say “use Wilton tip 1M” and it’s easier to get use to the tips. This case stores everything easy.

https://www.amazon.com/Wilton-Decorating-Piping-Tip-Piece/dp/B00C4UH6XI/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=wilton+tip+set&qid=1572799964&sprefix=wimton+tip&sr=8-4

Couplers. Skip Wilton ones if (the plains white once’s if you get in a kit are fine... ) but these are better: you don’t need a million but 4-8 is nice. Basically you want one for each color of icing you put on cake so you can change tips. So instead of two bags of icing you just have on.. and can change the tip to make vines, then another tip for leaves, and a larger tip for writing.

https://www.amazon.com/Ateco-398-Standard-Couplers-Decorating/dp/B00272GS64/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=ateco+coupler&qid=1572800119&sr=8-3

Bags. Any count is fine- but 50-100 would be best. I like the 100 count because it’s easier to remove / store in the box it comes in.

12” for decorating

18” for icing the whole cake.

https://www.amazon.com/Wilton-2104-1249-Decorating-Tools-count/dp/B00096ZTRY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?keywords=wilton+disposable+decorating+bags&qid=1572800239&sprefix=wilton+dispo&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyN0lRNUFCTjdFSldLJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMTA1MTI2MTZVNlpCUkRQWjFOUyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjE0MjE1M1JPVk9ZWkJJTE9XQSZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX3Bob25lX3NlYXJjaF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl

Gel colors:

If you go Wilton:
These are awesome: you can get them in primary, pastel, and neon. I like them because you can just squeeze into the icing instead of the old way of dipping into a pot.

https://www.amazon.com/Wilton-Neon-Gel-Food-Color/dp/B01KO6NAM4/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=wilton+gel+color&qid=1572800403&sr=8-5


A better overal brand:

Americolor: the best thing is you can buy much large qty of colors so if you always use red.. you can buy 8 oz instead of 1 oz.

https://www.amazon.com/Coloring-AmeriColor-Student-Bottles-Colors/dp/B00KCUXRLC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=americolor+gel+food+coloring&qid=1572800488&sprefix=americolor+&sr=8-3


You don’t need to buy every color because you can mix basic colors to dial in an exact shade.



Anything Wilton you can buy at joanns, michaels, hobby lobby. Make sure you use coupons!

Another option is you can sign her up for a decorating basics class at joanns or Michaels. It’s been a while since I taught- and it’s gift that will end up costing her money (you have to make cake and icing 3 out of 4 weeks of class- and she will probably want to buy extras). You can buy her the basic course 1 kit- but she’s still need to buy other things and i told my students to expect to pay about $100 all in with Wilton supplies, using some coupons, ingredients and extras. They could do it for less... or a hell of a lot more.

I made a pdf for my students with resources, color charts to mix icing, recipes if you’d like me to send you a copy.

Also, check out sweet sugar belle’s website. Lots of inspiration for cookies!

What city are you close to? I can search for a good cake decorating store- not chain that sells things like 1 box for cupcakes or 1 board for a cake.. you can pick up some small but super helpful things for a few dollars.

I use an American buttercream:

4 sticks (1 lb) unsalted butter
8 cups (2 lbs) powdered sugar
3 tbs of heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp kosher salt


I live in Phoenix, and have a difficult time with my buttercream melting, so I use cold butter that I cut up.

Using the paddle attachment on a stand mixer, cream the butter in the mixer, scrape the sides, and repeat a couple times.

Sift the powdered sugar and then put it all in the mixer with the butter.

Run the mixer on low until it’s combined. Mine is very thick and pretty clumpy at this point. It doesn't look like it could be frosting.

Add the liquids and salt, and then whip it on medium high for about three minutes.

This colors great using gel. If you were only using one color for the full batch, you can add it now and blend it in with the mixer. If not, you can divide the frosting up into bowls and blend by hand.

This will make a very stiff buttercream which is great for succulents! If you wanted to make a thinner frosting for basic coverage, you can add more cream 1 tbs at a time until you get the desired consistency. (I just used 6 tbls in a batch and could have even done more, but it all depends on your needs and climate.)

I really like using kosher salt because it gives that savory surprise to the frosting. (I'm not a fan of super sweet/cavity-inducing frosting.) This has a good balance and kinda tastes like ice cream!

This recipe is for a vanilla buttercream. If you want to chocolate buttercream, you can replace a cup of powdered sugar with a cup of cocoa powder. Sift the cocoa first and add it with the powder.

From there, the flavors are endless!!! You can add peppermint extract instead of vanilla to the vanilla or chocolate buttercream. Or orange juice and lemon instead of the cream and vanilla.

As for piping supplies, I use:

Wilton 55 piece master tip set (I mainly used petal and leaf tips, but it all depends on what kind of succulents you are making. You do not need this full set and can buy a few of the basic tips! I noticed from some tutorials that this set didn't have all the tips for succulents, but it worked well for me. This set also comes with 2 of the standard size flower nails.)

3 inch flower nail (I liked the standard one, but really enjoyed the size of this to make the bigger succulents, but ended up using it for all sizes.)

Parchment paper (this was a blessing! It's too hot to pipe directly on the nail... Or I just don't have the skills yet. Just cut the parchment into squares a little bigger then your intended succulent and attach it to the nail with a little buttercream. Pipe your succulent on the parchment paper, then place the finished succulent and parchment on a cookie sheet, and freeze until you are ready to decorate.)

Flower lifter (really helped for placement)

As for piping pointers, just try to work fast and keep your buttercream covered so it doesn't crust over before you use it. It's best to work in smaller batches because you can get melt (at least I had to.) There are a ton of wonderful and helpful online tutorials that will show what tips make what succulent/flower.

Most importantly, number 1, don't forget... Have fun!! I completely failed way too many batches before a few reddit angels led me to the perfect buttercream recipe. After that, all you need is a little bit of practice and you'll do an amazing job!

Best of luck and I'm here if you (or anyone else) need anything or wanna share successes and failures!

This is probably WAY to much information, but I am really excited about it! And am already ready for my next cake and challenge!

And... You of course can do this for cakes and cupcakes, but I also did terrariums with the leftover succulents and cake scraps! I have already written a novel, but I can share additional pictures and information for the terrariums, if you're interested.

=)

I have been baking for years, my decorating skills get better, but I am FAR better at making it faste good vs making it pretty! 😂 but that said I make birthday cakes for my kids, friends, friends kids & family. Lol! I have a simple kit that is good. I got it off Amazon. It's not to expensive & I highly reccomend going with the metal turntable vs plastic. Here is the kit I have:
Metal Turntable Cake Decorating Set - (175 PCS CAKE DECORATING KIT) With 55 Numbered Icing Tips, BONUS Tips Chart, Aluminum Stainless Steel Rotating Cake Stand and More! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KT27RRY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NnIoDbMYMPQA4


ETA: I also reccomend getting some non-slip shelf liner to keep your cakes from slidding on the turntable. It will make a HUGE difference. You can order specific cut ones, but you can make more for less with the shelf liner.

Disclaimer: these are just a kickoff to get you started. Obviously, you know your girlfriend, your budget, and what's available near you best!

First things first...

How about a Funko doll relevant to her interests? https://funko.com/

How about a sock monkey hat for her Funko doll? https://www.etsy.com/listing/224767016/for-funko-dolls-miniature-sock-monkey

Baking

If she likes baking and Doctor Who, what about this cool TARDIS cookie jar? https://www.amazon.com/Doctor-Who-Tardis-Cookie-Lights/dp/B000VQZOLS/

Speaking of baking, this set is really cute and colorful: https://www.amazon.com/Joiedomi-8-Pieces-Silicone-Including-Chocolate/dp/B01H45ZGVQ/

Cake Decorating

How's she doing on tools?

Does she need tips? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IBFP7GW?psc=1

What about some inspiration? https://www.amazon.com/Ideas-Decorating-Cupcakes-Cookies-Cakes/dp/1592536514/ (They even have new copies of the book available from third party sellers for cheap!)

Watching Movies

Does she like going to the theater, or does she like watching movies with you on the couch?

If the theater, movie tickets make an awesome gift, and you can usually get a gift card with a pair of two tickets pretty cheap!

If at home, make a movie gift basket! Go to the dollar store, and find her favorite candy, soda, etc. Grab some microwave popcorn. Pop it in a cute basket or even one of those plastic popcorn containers (or go to your local theater and see if they'll give you one of their cardboard ones for free...) You can throw a DVD in there, too, or one of those Redbox rental coupons, if you have that in your area.

I feel Im a bit of an intermediate cookie decorator at the moment. For someone whose just getting started on the cheap, really all you need is some ziploc sandwich bags and some toothpicks. It sounds janky, but it works quite well with simpler designs while you get some practice in. Also some food coloring gels. You dont want to use the liquid stuff because it will water down your icing and add an extra layer of frustration when trying to get your consistency right.

That aside, theres the baking side of things - baking pans and maybe a couple silpat liners (reusable silicone baking mat). They pay for themselves with the money you save from not having to buy paper pan liners. And some cookie cooling racks, which you can find pretty cheaply at Kmart.

Not much else to it. If you want to invest a bit more in it, then Id suggest grabbing a big roll of plastic piping bags, a handful of #3 tips (cheapy wiltons are fine) and couple of #1.5 tips (Id go with PME for the finer tips, theyre more consistent in size), and some couplers to go along with each tip you bought. Also a scribe tool is nifty, the finer point on it is nicer to work with than a toothpick.

Youd basically use the bigger tip for filling in areas with large amounts of icing, the finer tip for detail work, and the scribe tool to pop out the bubbles and tweak the icing once on the cookie. I still keep sandwich bags around to do the "flooding" as theyre plentiful, easy to fill, and I can mix up a bunch of colors for them easily.

Anyway, hope that helps. I linked stuff to Amazon to give you an idea of what Im talking about, but Amazon is far from the cheapest place to get this stuff. Im in the US, so I dont know where in Canada would be best to get this stuff.

It's so nice that you want to do this for your wife! Does she like to do cupcakes/cakes? Do you know what equipment she has?

For tips, I would recommend a nice set from Ateco. You can buy a less expensive version by Wilton, but I feel like their tips warp/bend way too easily. I have the 55 piece, but there is also a 14 piece version available:

https://www.amazon.com/Ateco-55-Piece-Stainless-Decorating-Storage/dp/B0000DE12F/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1492868478&sr=8-2&keywords=ateco+tips

https://www.amazon.com/Ateco-14-Piece-Cake-Decorating-Set/dp/B000BVFYTA/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1492868478&sr=8-5&keywords=ateco+tips

I (again) prefer Ateco's piping bags, but Wilton will also work fine. Wilton bags have split on me before, but I am also a semi-professional and very picky. :D I also prefer the smaller 12-in bags in general, because I can control the flow a lot easier.

https://www.amazon.com/Ateco-DISPOSABLE-PASTRY-BAGS/dp/B01EXHJCTA/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1492868619&sr=8-6&keywords=piping+bags

https://www.amazon.com/Wilton-Disposable-16-Inch-Decorating-Bags/dp/B00175TFJ4/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1492868619&sr=8-5&keywords=piping+bags

She might like using these bag ties. Much easier than a rubber band.

https://www.amazon.com/Wilton-417-173-Icing-Bag-Ties/dp/B000PBZHOS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492868890&sr=8-1&keywords=wilton+bands

For cake pans, I like Fat Daddio. They're relatively inexpensive and bake evenly.

https://www.amazon.com/Fat-Daddios-Anodized-Aluminum-Inches/dp/B0000VLIH8/ref=sr_1_3?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1492868964&sr=1-3&keywords=cake+pan+fat+daddio

I'm not a super big fan of cupcakes, but I got my pans from Sur La Table, but there are definitely cheaper options on Amazon.

Some other general tools that are helpful are straight/offset spatulas in different sizes (Wilton, OXO, Ateco all make them), cookie scoops if she's into cookies (OXO makes very sturdy ones that have lasted nearly 10 years for me). I would also get her a kitchen scale or measuring cups spoons, parchment paper, cooling racks, cake tester/toothpicks.

I would highly recommend Ateco as a brand to focus on. I have been using my Ateco stuff for years and have yet to replace anything from them.

I would personally avoid Wilton like the plague but I know a lot of people love the brand. I find most of their stuff to be too cheap and flimsy however. With that said, the first thing I ever got was a cake decorating kit by Wilton. I used it a bit and then switched to all Ateco all the time.

As far as stuff I would recommend here you go.

Chicago Metallic Cookie Sheet

Chicago Metallic Muffin Pan

Ateco 10 piece star tip set

Ateco 10 piece plain tip set

Ateco 55 piece decorator set

Ateco 12 piece gel color set

Fat Daddio's 6x4 cake pan (this is perfect for smaller cakes, I use it when making cakes for the missus and myself)

And then of course there is the expensive stuff like a mixer and all of that.

Hope that helps. Also, sorry about the Canadian links, I have some of that on my wishlist so it was easy to get the links that way.

/u/Sp3cia1K - Thank you for all of your work on the bomb, TinyChat, and everything else that you do for this sub. You're the best and we're truly lucky to have you here. <3

For me.

For Kate. (I love this movie!)

Go Mom Go! I love when my mom gives me groceries, it's the best.

1.) [Something that is grey.] (http://www.amazon.com/PetFusion-SmartGrip-Litter-Gray-Twist/dp/B007SQFRMU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=35DW5BWHD972D&coliid=I38TYTP3QO3VYV)

2.) [Something reminiscent of rain.] (http://www.amazon.com/Musical-MP-200-8-Inch-Rainmaker-Shaker/dp/B000CBURPU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=I3SD8BF3BVM32F)

3.) [Something food related that is unusual.] (http://www.amazon.com/Nut-Milk-Bag-New-Improved/dp/B00158U8DU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3S72V8PR4PYO1&coliid=I2AH1R1GSQ52JT)

4.) [Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. (Yes, pets count!)] (http://www.amazon.com/Mommys-Helper-Car-Seat-Shade/dp/B00125NZSQ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=I1TXQG28XXBC0I) For my daughter, so she doesn't melt in the car.

5.) [A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it!] (http://www.amazon.com/The-Girl-Left-Behind-ebook/dp/B00BSY6U6K/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=ZJTYBG9S817P&coliid=I13JIN1E80H7G) Well, I haven't read this one yet, but I read her last book, Me Before You, a few months ago and LOVED it.


6.) [An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related!] (http://www.amazon.com/Home/dp/B002G690B6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=LVUGPBTDLHFS&coliid=I2V27LFTC98I6K)

7.) [Something related to cats.] (http://www.amazon.com/Da-Bird-Cat-Toy-Store/dp/B000F9JJJE/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=35DW5BWHD972D&coliid=I32WEJ4UV0RR)

8.) [Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it.] (http://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Colorful-Rainbow-Synthetic-Costume/dp/B00966CIAO/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=VF4I3JWXLPHE&coliid=I3J6CNZ64SMNW5)

9.) [A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why?]
(http://www.amazon.com/Pride-Prejudice-Restored-Edition-Colin/dp/B00364K6YW/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=ZJTYBG9S817P&coliid=I2JAGS8BIXE6M9) Because Colin Firth.

10.) [Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. Explain.] (http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-L10SK3-12-Inch-Pre-Seasoned-Skillet/dp/B00006JSUB/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3S72V8PR4PYO1&coliid=I14266M2SVKSXM) Well, if I had to survive on my WL items alone, I would surely die. BUT, I figure this could at least come in handy to cook over open fires and it is the most weapon-like thing on my list.

11.) [Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals.] (http://www.amazon.com/Reebok-Kettlebell-10-Pounds-Lime-Green/dp/B008R5HY54/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=39MD4F4AQ4MXM&coliid=I2XGPU1DE4SJW5&psc=1) Gotta get off the baby weight!

12.) [One of those pesky Add-On items.] (http://www.amazon.com/Kotobuki-Plastic-Egg-Mold-Fish/dp/B002TZ04JG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=LVUGPBTDLHFS&coliid=I2PHEI57WW2PIY)

13.) [The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why?] (http://www.amazon.com/Burley-Encore-2013-Bike-Trailer/dp/B00AVUHUEI/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=I15NA2PJZUXBY4&psc=1) Maybe not my dream item, but the most expensive for sure. My husband and I love biking, but right now I'm sidelined since we have a 1 year old. This would let us all go!

14.) [Something bigger than a bread box.] (http://www.amazon.com/Tree-Condo-Furniture-Scratch-House/dp/B003XLIVZ4/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=35DW5BWHD972D&coliid=I33YA670HLM8GP)

15.) [Something smaller than a golf ball.] (http://www.amazon.com/Yellow-Gold-Peridot-Dangle-Earrings/dp/B001H54K4O/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=24R3M5GIPRKSE&coliid=I25YHXC05Q9VTT)

16.) [Something that smells wonderful.] (http://www.amazon.com/Tea-Forte-Loose-Leaf-Canister/dp/B006TZFOVU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=28JN11TB2DHP4&coliid=I3P4PBFBU5HWL6)

17.) [A (SFW) toy.] (http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Little-People-Friends-Exclusive/dp/B008ZUGOAW/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=IIMNWL3OA8808)

18.) [Something that would be helpful for going back to school.] (http://www.amazon.com/Wilton-2109-0309-Ultimate-Professional-Decorating/dp/B008GXE7P2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=29KYW0DBB8ME2&coliid=INH34JY48VH4F) If you are going to school to become a baker.

19.) [Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be.] (http://www.amazon.com/Blendtec-40-620-54-Twister-Jar/dp/B0087Q1T1S/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=29KYW0DBB8ME2&coliid=I394DCB2QJ4RAZ) Making my own sprouted nut butters!!

20.) [Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand.]
(http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Little-People-Friends-Wheelies/dp/B00650F5SG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=I3RS9BP4QYQAC7) Because tiny Super Friends in cars are awesome for raising a baby nerd. (On a related note, this question made me realize that I am boring and practical.)


fear cuts deeper than swords

small or large are both good basic kits. You can use them with regular quart or gallon ziplock bags and learn to make your own icing or use store bought icing (the consistency of the icing is important in decorating). If you look up the tip, you can see what types of pattern it is used for

you can look at some basics here. They also have other information about leveling cakes, etc. After that I would say seek out the types of things you want to create. Google image search is your friend for finding cute cake ideas :) If you see something you want to try then just google for a video or basic tutorial. For example say you want to learn methods of piping borders, just look for videos like this one. If you're not sure what to look for you can always ask r/baking and I'm sure they can help out.

Happy Cake day!

1. Cupcake Liners!
   
   2.Emma Watson is British and so is Simon Pegg
   
   3.The picture of Dorian Grey.
   
   4.How about some colorful Straws?
   
   5.Hummingbirds are Birds, birds are animals and Hummingbirds feed on flower's nectar!
   
   6.Purple Holga!
   
   7.The Game of Life
   
   8.Claire's is my guilty pleasure:(
   
   9.Tool for Cool decorations!
   
   
2. Happy Hippo, ugh BEST ever. If you haven't tried them I urge you to!
   
   11.I need to organize those lipsticks!
   
   12.Photography
   
   13.GPS luggage tags
   
   14.To get that natural look
   
   15.Let's save on packaging and just get them all together
   
   16.I don't like bugs
   
   17.She's too funny
   
   18.Can Draw all three with these
   
   19.Wear them while gardening
   
   20.No Bookstores in my little town
   
   
   And you're getting these!
   
   rthanks for the fun contest!
   

Start with a set like this. As a basic walking around set I'd recommend a writing tip (I like ateco number 3 or 4), a larger round tip, a closed star, a petal, a mum, and a ribbon. Ateco is a good brand, wilton is easy to find. Dont buy plastic tips, and always dry your metal tips well before storing them.

For cupcakes, find youself a nice big closed star and a french tip.

Edit: and a leaf tip!

I'm hosting the holidays for the first time and wanted to go all out for it. I'm a pretty gifted baker so I'm making several desserts including two pies, sugar cookies, an apple cinnamon cake, and the recipe I'm sharing. I decided to try something different this year and make my favourite pastry Choux! For the pastry I'm using a Better Homes and Garden recipe from an old cookbook I stole from my mother. I'm making two batches one with a pumpkin custard and the other with a vanilla. I can't remember where I got the pumpkin custard recipe so I do apologize for not giving credit to the original creator. Recipe notes at the bottom

For Pastry

Ingredients

1 cup water

1/2 cup butter

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 cup all-purpose flour*

4 eggs*

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease baking sheet and set aside.

In an medium sauce pan combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil. Add flour all at once, stirring vigorously. Cook and stir until mixture forms a ball like this. remove from heat. Cool 10 min. Add egg one at a time, beating well with wooden spoon after each. Drop dough by heaping tablespoons into 12 mounds about 3 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in oven about 30 minutes or until firm. Cool puffs of wire rack.

​

For Custard

Ingredients

3 egg yolks

1/4 cup pumpkin puree*

1/8 cup all-purpose flour*

1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup of whole milk

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Preparation

Combine egg yolks, pumpkin, sugar, flour, pumpkin pie spice, and cornstarch, whisk until the mixture is completely combined and smooth. Set aside. In a saucepan, warm the milk over low heat until hot, but not boiling. Add half of the hot milk to pumpkin mixture, whisking constantly. Now take pumpkin mixture and add it to the milk that's in the saucepan. Continue to cook the mixture over low heat while constantly stirring for 1 to 2 minutes or until custard is very thick. remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge until completely cooled; about 45 minutes.

​

To assemble

Now there are a couple ways to do it. The recipe says to cut off the top of each puff, remove the soft dough, spoon in the filling and replace the top. But that isn't as neat looking to me so I poke a small hole in the bottom with a knife and use a filling tool like this one to fill it with custard.* Sift powdered sugar over them and serve. You can also chill them if desired.

*I use cake flour when baking as it seem to yield better results for me.

*I also try to use room temp eggs but the recipe doesn't specify either way.

*Do not use pumpkin pie filling

*You can also use an icing bag and filling tip

Image Source

3.141592 is all I've ever been able to remember.

I have [these](Cake Decoration Tips-37 Piece-The ONLY KIT With BONUS Reusable Silicone Bag-X2 Coupler-X10 Disposable Icing Bag-EBook. EASY TO SET & USE-Baking Tool Supply. Professional Icing Tips-Piping Cake Nozzle. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DGEVWUI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_qWuQAbATVGPPZ) cake decorating tips for decorating cakes because I like cakes. Also some silicone whisks on my list that would be great for my non-stick pots.

This is a fantastic little set - it'll keep you going for a long time.

I'd get something like this for bags. They're pretty reusable, just give them a wash. I prefer the cloth piping bags, but you have to have a coupler for every one of them that lives with it, so it's more of an investment.

Good luck!

You guys are amazing! This sub never ceases to amaze me.

Since I'm super lazy and I stupidly decided to make ALL of the food for my son's birthday party, this beautiful piece of machinery would make my life so much easier. Plus, I've been wanting one for years now...they're so pretty. You know you want to. C'mon...gimme ;) lol

Or if Reddit Raffle decided to have mercy on my poor little soul, these little doodads would be so nifty.

It's raining pennies :)

I'm learning to make pretty baked things instead of just tasty ones. Doing that without a piping bag and tips is difficult. xD Yesterday I made these cupcakes and piped the frosting with a ziploc bag with a hole cut in the corner, haha.

This piping tip set and these piping bags from my Baking wishlist would make it a lot easier, and they total about $11 together. Thanks for the contest!

I'd 100% recommend a reusable and mufti-nozzle piping bag like this one. Many a time it's saved my eclairs, so it should work great for your cream puffs!

I like OXO scraper. Do you plan on leaving out the sipping stand? If so, this one is what I have. Ateco and Wilton are my go to for tips and bags. Here are some links.

Also, come check out r/baking There are a ton of helpful people there ♥️


https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000BVFYUO/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_8?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01EXHJCTA/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A35NO8HBZ6S6IT

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008VMATVO/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00004OCNJ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502920863&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=oxo+bench+scraper&dpPl=1&dpID=311FAYKN2DL&ref=plSrch

I bought this food color kit when it was on sale, they're the best you can get for cake decorating. Otherwise I would recommend a variety of Wilton decorating tips, or a set like this, so she can use them with her disposable piping bags. All of these things are versatile because they can be used for cakes, cupcakes and cookies

I LOVE MY BABY!

Since you're a fan of baking, how about this

What about Legos? The costumes are super easy to make. When you are on his back the Legos would appear to be snapped together. And if he gets tired of carrying you the costumes can stand alone.

I would love this: http://www.amazon.com/Wilton-415-0906-Dessert-Decorator-Plus/dp/B003B3OK9A/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3CHD4GZHSQIBC&coliid=I1VGJ4L7PDQG0G

I got her this set.

We made strawberry cupcakes and lemon cupcakes.

We also made a strawberry swiss meringue buttercream and a lemon American buttercream, to compare taste and ability to hold up after piping!

The strawberry swiss won on piping, but we were split on which tasted better (strawberry, obvs).

I worked in bakeries and high end restaurants for many years.

If you are piping icing onto a cupcake, chose a piping tip that isn't a circle. Choose really any other shape and you won't have a poo emoji atop your dessert.
I love the Wilton 2D with the prongs pried open a bit.

For practice, I recommend baking a few cupcakes and let them sit out and dry for a few days. Make up a basic butter cream and practice on the cupcake, scraping it off and doing it over and over again.

Wilton Tip Set

It sounds like the icing might be too dry or too cold, is it always at room temp before you start?

You might also want to consider some Russian icing tips that produce a whole flower at once! :)

You are freakin beautiful ; p
Tori's totally tubular!

Hurry up and finish your Exam

I bet we could both use icing bottles for baking! I mix my own with confectioners sugar and these would work great for decorating. Seconding the cupcake idea!

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I would absolutely love this decorating tip set

I'm self teaching cake decorating prop apply not a craft in the traditional sense, but I save a ton on birthday cakes.

Edit: Lunar Supplies

Need a new tip decorating set because some asshole stole mine at the last party I catered.

Want this mini Danaerys funko keychain because WINTER IS COMING, GUYS!

Here's a cat in a shark costume on a roomba chasing a duckling.

The only thing I'd be concerned about is that the materials in a caulking gun probably aren't food grade. For an item that is going to be used and washed a lot, OP might be better off sticking with a cookie press or something like this.

It looks like a larger star tip. I would guess tip 1M. Just be sure to pull away at an angle before releasing pressure.

I have this

It's got like...everything you could ever want. Piping bags, piping tips, a basic fondant decorating set, cutters, templates to learn how to pipe flowers and stuff.

I use it all the time

I bought a Bismarck recently, but it only cost £3.

Admittedly it's a piping tip...

They make frosting guns. Sometimes called dessert decorators. Here's an example:

http://www.amazon.com/Wilton-415-0906-Dessert-Decorator-Plus/dp/B003B3OK9A

What I'm looking forward to in 2015 is... finishing college and finishing my weight loss journey! I had a set back since the holidays but I'm working towards it again. I want both goals to be done this year. :D

Unrelated to weight loss, cake decorating tools!