30th Birthday Cake
by Michele Owen
(Beachwood, Ohio)
A Classy 30th Birthday Cake
My client requested a special 30th birthday cake for her and a friend's party. She wanted a Christmas theme since it was the holidays. Her friend was a casino dealer and she also wanted that incorporated. The cake had to be "classy".
The Yummy Flavors
Since the colors were red and black we decided on a dark chocolate cake tier with vanilla buttercream covered in red fondant. The second tier would be a southern red velvet cake with cream cheese buttercream covered in black fondant. When each tier was cut it would show the red and black color scheme.
I suggested gold accents and since cost was a consideration I said I would make the fondant. I made a red red poinsettia dusted in gold and a 30 symbol painted in edible gold. I made red hearts and diamonds for the base and placed a gold ribbon around the top tier.
I adapted the red velvet cake from Cakeman Raven's recipe because he is all things southern! The chocolate cake was adapted from Lorelies's
chocolate buttermilk cake. ( I had to!)
Tips on Making The Fondant
Here are some tips for making the fondant:I added the food coloring to the melted marshmallows before adding the powdered sugar. So much easier. Also, a bit of food grade glycerin added to the fondant while needing makes it more pliable. Start with a few drops at a time. Too much will make it too soft again.
The first picture is the initial cake I finished and sent to my client. She requested some more embellishments. The second picture is the updated version. I must admit I liked it so much better! Lesson: Listen to your clients!
They loved the 30th birthday cake.
Link to a delicious
marshmallow fondant recipe.