How to Decorate a Lambeth Cake using Buttercream

The Lambeth Cake involves layers of piping with stunning details that can turn any cake into a masterpiece.

This is an easier take on the Lambeth technique with a floral twist - Full VIDEO below 👇 🤩

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Cake: I have baked our Vanilla Sponge Cake following the techniques covered in our 'Science of Baking' Class which has resulted in fluffy even bakes (nothing to trim off/no browned edges or sunken middles)

Filling the cake: I have filled the layers of cake with lemon curd and our delicious Vanilla Buttercream. 

Crumb coat and cover: Apply a thin layer of buttercream around the entire cake to lock in any crumbs. Once the crumb coat is set (rest for 30 mins), cover the cake with an even layer of buttercream. You can use a cake smoother to smooth the cake further.

Step 2: Pipe Borders on Top with Wilton 2D Nozzle

Fit your piping bag with a Wilton 2D nozzle, which is a star-shaped tip that creates a beautiful, ruffled effect. Hold the bag at a 45-degree angle and pipe along the edge of the cake’s top to create a decorative border. 

Step 3: Pipe Drapes on the Side with Wilton 125 Nozzle

Swap the Wilton 2D nozzle for a Wilton 125 nozzle (a petal-shaped tip). Start piping from the top of the cake and work your way down the side, creating soft, elegant drapes. 

Step 4: Pipe a Border on the Bottom with Wilton 2D Nozzle

Using your Wilton 2D nozzle again, pipe along the bottom edge of the cake. This helps to frame the design and ties the entire look together. 

Step 5: Decorate with Edible Flowers

Carefully place a selection of edible flowers on the top or side of the cake. Edible flowers like pansies, rose petals, and daisies can add color and texture, and they pair beautifully with the intricate piping. Be sure to use flowers that are safe to eat and pesticide-free. I have used Pollys Petals from the UK.

Step 6: Paint Two Flowers on Top with an Artist’s Palette Knife

With an Artists Palette Knife, pick up a small amount of buttercream, smooth it and apply it flat on the cake. Paint two simple flowers on the top.

Remember, practice makes perfect!

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colours and piping nozzles to make the design truly your own.

Happy decorating! ❤️