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cupcake decorating

cupcakes, giveaways, NEW blog post, other sweets, Sugarlicious

cupcake decorating: how to use tips to pipe frosting on cupcakes

cupcake decorating

This week, let’s discuss cupcakes!! Specifically, how to pipe frosting on cupcakes and cupcake decorating. I’m pretty sure we can stop talking about cupcakes as a “trend,” too. Cupcakes are cute, decorate-able, portion-controlled perfection, and they are here to stay. But I do have a very important question for you. How do you frost cupcakes? Do you pipe the frosting on or spread the frosting with a spatula?

Now I’m not averse to spreading frosting on cupcakes with a spatula. Gosh, it’s how I was raised. But once I started getting into piping, I spread no more. I find it’s so much quicker and easier to pipe frosting with a bag and tip.

cupcake decorating: how to use tips to pipe frosting on cupcakes
cupcake decorating: how to use tips to pipe frosting on cupcakes

how to pipe frosting on cupcakes

you will need:

  • cupcakes
    frosting (or storebought, but NOT royal icing)
  • food coloring (optional)
  • decorating bag
  • coupler
  • decorating tips
  • rubber band

a word about supplies:

decorating bags. I use 12-inch disposable decorating bags, available at the craft store. It’d be easier to use larger bags because you’d be able to pipe on more cupcakes without refilling, but I use the 12-inch for cookie decorating and I don’t like to buy more than one box. So I refill every few cupcakes.

couplers and decorating tips. You’ll find these in the craft store, too. I use standard size couplers and tips. But for cupcakes, you can use the larger sizes if you prefer. It’s actually much easier to go larger, but I’m cheap, I mean frugal, and just my cookie decorating supplies, so that’s why I just use the standard size of both of these. Just make sure that whatever tips you buy fit on the couplers you buy. (So standard/standard or big/big.)

frosting. I use this recipe for frosting (not the royal icing). But you can use store-bought, too. You may want to thicken it a bit with confectioner’s sugar. For piping cupcakes, a little thicker than the spreadable consistency in the can is preferred. You want the frosting to be thick enough to hold it’s shape (scoop a spoonful and make sure it doesn’t move) but not so super-thick you can’t squeeze it out of the bag.

UPDATE: A reader asked a fabulous question, why not royal icing?? It’s all about consistency. Royal icing dries very hard (my recipe dries well enough to handle, though the other ingredients make it a little different from traditional royal icing and it doesn’t dry very hard), so it’s ideal for cookie decorating, as you are then able to handle and package your cookies. However, hard icing not so ideal for cupcakes. Better to use a butter-based frosting for those.

cupcake decorating: how to use tips to pipe frosting on cupcakes

step one: assemble the decorating bag.

Assemble the decorating bag with a decorating tip (see below for tips on tips) and coupler. To do this, remove the ring from the coupler. Fit the coupler in side the bag with the smaller end pushed towards the point. Snip the bag beneath the edge of the coupler so the coupler fits fully inside the bag. Put the decorating tip on the edge of the coupler (over the snipped bag), and secure with the ring. Fold a cuff and put the bag in a tumbler with the cuff over the rim (I use my daughter’s Backyardigans cup). Fill with frosting, uncuff and close tightly with a rubber band.

how to pipe frosting on cupcakes

step four: pipe the frosting

To pipe, hold the bag with your dominant hand by the rubber band. Steady the bag by placing your other hand on top of your dominant hand and squeeze with consistent pressure. Start at the center of the cupcake, move to the edge and pipe round and round in a spiral and pull away quickly at the top.

 

how to pipe frosting on cupcakes

Which tip to use??

You can use pretty much any of the fancy schmancy type tips. Don’t worry too much about which one, since they all look pretty cool. You got your open star (with teeth), closed star (with teeth turned in), petals (long and flat), round (um, round)… I’m partial to the open stars, less teeth, the bigger the better. Below are a few examples… Missing from this list below is the size 1M tip. My new favorite!

 

 how to pipe frosting on cupcakes
how to pipe frosting on cupcakes
how to pipe frosting on cupcakes
 how to pipe frosting on cupcakes
UPDATE: GIVEAWAY ENDED
now let’s get to the GIVEAWAY!!
How do you frost your cupcakes?

THE GIVEAWAY

So this week I get to give FIVE of you the awesome Prize Pack,
and I’m throwing in some cupcake liners, too!

to ENTER to WIN:

the sneak-peek thingamajig AND 
 the awesome Prize Pack that includes 
an oven mitt, spatula, apron, a few recipes, post-its AND 
cupcake liners AND
three decorating tips, bags and couplers

(reminder, the sneak peek is NOT the book itself which is available February 7th)
leave a comment here before
Thursday, January 26th, midnight, EST 
GIVEAWAY ENDED!! 

(Sorry folks, funds are limited so I have to keep this US addresses only

sugarlicious

 

 

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Comments

  1. Andrew's Mom says

    January 24, 2012 at 12:51 pm

    I want to win!

    Reply
  2. Veronique says

    January 24, 2012 at 12:58 pm

    yes yes please!

    Reply
  3. Sara-Jayne says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:00 pm

    Hello! I'm 38 weeks super-pregnant and my baby boy is due on your release date! I would SO love to win! I am in the UK, BUT My friend in the USA would take delivery for me and send it on; she knows how much I love your work! Congratulations on the book by the way, I cannot wait for it to be released 🙂 Thank you for always making my day prettier with your work 🙂

    Reply
  4. Bakingmomof4 says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:05 pm

    I want to win. I have your book pre-ordered and I can hardly wait until it arrives!! WOO HOO! Love all your work!!

    Reply
  5. annemarie says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:06 pm

    I was not lucky last week so hopefully I will be luckier this week – love your blog and your giveaway.

    Reply
  6. Amy Sims says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:14 pm

    LOVE to pipe frosting onto my cupcakes. It's SO much easier! Can't wait to see your book…it'd be awesome to get a sneak peek!

    Reply
  7. Sue @ Cakeballs, cookies and more says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:15 pm

    I pipe now too, so much easier, but I pipe from the outside in. I get to make a bit of a mountain of icing that way:)

    Reply
  8. Cindy H. says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:15 pm

    Thanks for the quick tutorial and the great giveaway!

    Reply
  9. AHM514 says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:17 pm

    Thank you so much for the post! I had one of those AH HA! moments. I always fight with the bag as I try to fill it, I never thought to put it in a cup, with the bag opened & rolled over the sides! Genius! (and why didn't I think of that ha ha!!!!) We appreciate your give-aways as well!!! Thanks a million!!!!!!

    Reply
  10. SapphireGyrl says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:19 pm

    Since I have been introduced to the wonderful world of tips I pipe. Great giveaway.

    Reply
  11. Jeanetta says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:31 pm

    I have pre-ordered your book from Amazon and can't wait until it arrives! In the mean time I'd love the sneek peek and the prize.
    Your work is fantastic and I've followed you for over a year. I also use your icing recipe and love it. Thanks for the inspiration!
    Jeanetta (debuskjl@gmail.com)

    Reply
  12. Courtney C. says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:31 pm

    I always pipe. I find it too difficult to ice by hand. Love your tips. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  13. Larissa Pavei says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:37 pm

    OMG! how cute!!

    Reply
  14. Victoria Belabes says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:38 pm

    Love your blog, I need to win!!!

    Reply
  15. Kiersten says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:46 pm

    Your book looks amazing! I hope I win 🙂

    Reply
  16. LadyWild says

    January 24, 2012 at 1:57 pm

    Thanks for offering such a great giveaway.

    Reply
  17. Allison says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:09 pm

    I would love to win!

    Reply
  18. Gina says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:11 pm

    I'm still battling the piping technique. I follow your instructions to the "t". Would love to win your wonderful prizes. You are the best. Can't wait to get your book next month.

    Reply
  19. ALEK RULES!!!!! says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:16 pm

    I need all the help and tips that I can get. It looks so easy!

    Reply
  20. Mindy says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:22 pm

    How fun! Would love to win

    Reply
  21. WaterBug says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:28 pm

    I love your blog! Can't wait for the book! Would love to win 🙂

    Reply
  22. Crafty says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:33 pm

    I would LOVE to win this! thanks for the giveaway!

    Reply
  23. Ane says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:34 pm

    Love your blog! Thanks for the giveaway!

    Reply
  24. Maria Rosa says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:34 pm

    I enjoy so much your blog and ideas that this would just make my february even better.

    Reply
  25. SassyMonkeyCakes says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:35 pm

    I would love to win. Thanks for a chance to win.

    Reply
  26. Pauline says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:51 pm

    I would LOVE to win this. My new years resolution this year is to learn to decorate cookies/cupcakes. This would come in VERY handy at my house right now:)
    Thanks for this awesome giveaway.
    Pauline
    Pauline at tinkertoys dot net

    Reply
  27. Heather5530 says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:52 pm

    Your stuff is just soooo cute! I really hope to win this !

    Reply
  28. Anonymous says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:54 pm

    I would love this for my sister

    burns1519 at hotmail dot com

    Reply
  29. Justine says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:55 pm

    Just started piping cupcakes. I still like the old fashioned way just depends on my mood 😉

    Reply
  30. Amanda says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:02 pm

    I use both methods of frosting cupcakes. For me it really depends on the occasion. I am adding to my piping tip collection and I would love to win a few more!

    Reply
  31. Anjali says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:06 pm

    I love making and decorating cupcakes. I mostly pipe the frosting unless theme requires flat surface then I spread. Love your blog and look forward to winning this lovely giveaway. Thanks for the opportunity and good luck with the release of Sugarlicious book!

    Reply
  32. b stapleton says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:07 pm

    I love to PIPE. Then, if I want it smoother I just smooth with my spatula. Less mess that way. I learned the bag in a cup trick in a decorating class years ago and it just rocked my world! Awesome tip.

    Reply
  33. Mrs. Schmid says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:08 pm

    I usually spread, but you made piping look so easy, I'll have to try! Thanks for the giveaway!

    Reply
  34. Monica Miller says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:09 pm

    HI! I'm like you…i used to spread like my mom used to do until I learned about a piping bag and tip!!!
    monirr04@yahoo.com

    Reply
  35. the decorated cookie says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:10 pm

    (This entry is Marlene's)

    Reply
  36. Kari (GrannySkywalker) says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:17 pm

    I would LOVE to win all that. Sign me up. 🙂

    Reply
  37. Mami Dearest says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:22 pm

    I would love to make pretty cupcakes like this. Mine are always so boring.

    Reply
  38. Sugar Butter Baby says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:23 pm

    I always pipe my cupcakes, it's so easy and actually saves time over spreading.

    Reply
  39. StarvingBitch says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:26 pm

    Of course I want to win. I like to pipe frosting as well, I'm still learning, boy on TV decorating cakes and cupcakes looks so easy but it's not that easy. At least not for me, I know practice makes perfect. I try my best! I may take a cake decorating class down the street from my house to get the hang of it.

    Reply
  40. Kristyn says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:30 pm

    I love cupcakes and would LOVE to win this prize pack!! 🙂

    Reply
  41. CJAYMom says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:32 pm

    I would love to win this prize pack. I love baking and getting better is one of my goals.

    Reply
  42. Katie says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:37 pm

    I currently spread frosting, but am hoping that after the cake decorating class I take in a few weeks I will be better at piping!

    Reply
  43. amy says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:39 pm

    I would love to win that prize pack!!

    Reply
  44. kim says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:39 pm

    I love piping cupcakes and I love your work. Fingers crossed 🙂

    Reply
  45. Its All About Creating says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:45 pm

    I'm so happy to be able to leave a comment today. It wouldn't work yesterday for some reason, so yay for today. Thank you for the giveaway and opportunity to win. Congratulations on all your hard work paying off! Thank you for the tips today-great post!

    Reply
  46. Lori says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:55 pm

    What a fun, fun giveaway! Would love to win!
    Red8car@aol.com

    Reply
  47. isabel says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:01 pm

    Great tips and photos! Thank you! And yes please enter me in the giveaway! 🙂

    Reply
  48. Jean says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:21 pm

    I have and love your first book, 2nd book is on preorder and can't wait!! Would love to win!!

    Reply
  49. CookieD-oh says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:27 pm

    I love to pipe!

    Reply
  50. Renee says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:34 pm

    For some reason, I am terrible at piping, but you make it look really easy. I usually spread, messily…

    Reply
  51. Kristen P - "Praz" says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:46 pm

    Great tutorial! So excited for you… & excited for ME to win 😉

    Reply
  52. Robynn says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:50 pm

    Great tutorial! I frost my cupcakes the old fashion way with a knife. But I am going to try piping the frosting next time. Looks very easy.

    Reply
  53. Yuliah says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:51 pm

    I like to frost my cupcakes with either the star or open tips. But by the time we add some sprinkled, or sugar decorations, it kinda doesn't matter. I love experimenting w/ ideas, so thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  54. Mia and Deniece, Boulder Creek Cupcakes says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:11 pm

    I pipe my cupcakes, so much quicker than spreading, which is how I grew up doing cupcakes. I think just about anyway you do your cupcakes is great except when people use an ice cream scoop and just but a giant glob on top. That really bothers me =)

    Reply
  55. Adrienne says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:11 pm

    YAY! I love this giveaway! Congratulations on your book, I can't wait to get my hands on a copy! 🙂 Oh, and I pipe my cupcakes – it's so much more fun!! 🙂

    Reply
  56. Renee says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:21 pm

    awesome! thanks for a chance to win!

    Reply
  57. Trish - Sweetology101 says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:32 pm

    Great cupcake frosting tutorial..I need to branch out of the 1M that is for sure…I like the ruffle feel of the 2D tip too….I am getting SO excited for you!!

    Reply
  58. Karenduch says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:40 pm

    I used to just use a knife, but I have branched out to decorator tips (actually is less messy and faster! not to mention prettier!) or candy and cookie decorations (reindeer over the holidays!). Thanks for the opportunity! ladydevine73@hotmail.com

    Reply
  59. Rachel Herndon says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:48 pm

    Oh, me, me, pick me!!!!

    Reply
  60. Mrs Scratch says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:11 pm

    In the past, I've always just spread…but now I am inspired to pipe. I have all the tools, so hopefully it will work. Thanks for the tips on how to fill the bag. That always seems like the messiest part.

    Reply
  61. franzenmom says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:13 pm

    Would love to win! Everything looks like fun to use.

    Reply
  62. Amanda Deinhart says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:24 pm

    I would love to win!!!!! I'm going to be decorating cupcakes for my friends wedding and this would be awesome!!! Thanks! LOVE this website!! adeinhart209@sbcglobal.net

    Reply
  63. Morgan says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:30 pm

    This prize is adorable! I know someone who would LOVE it!

    Reply
  64. Danielle says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:11 pm

    This book looks awesome! I would love to win. By the way, I pipe frosting onto my cupcakes. Love the neater look!

    Reply
  65. Sadie says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:19 pm

    Great giveaway!

    Reply
  66. Amy says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:26 pm

    I would LOVE to win!! I like to pipe the frosting onto my cupcakes. The petal tip is the best! And so much prettier than just slapping it on there 🙂

    Email: braincolor@aol.com

    Reply
  67. Anonymous says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:35 pm

    What an exciting prize package…I would love to win. I spread the cupcakes still most of the time but love the look of piping it. Congrats on your book! Thanks for the chance to win!

    Reply
  68. amy says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:38 pm

    i like to frost my cupcakes as high as gravity will allow. a ratio of frosting to cake 4:1 works for me.

    Reply
  69. Anonymous says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:41 pm

    Would love to win this for my daughter as she is getting ready to leave for culinary school and decorating is her passion.

    Reply
  70. Alexandra says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:49 pm

    I always pipe and I'd love to win!

    alexandbob@hotmail.com

    Reply
  71. Chrissy Farnan says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:51 pm

    Hi – So exciting to have your creative talent published into a book. I love to bake too and cupcakes are what I enjoy best – little mini delights! Thanks for the chance to win :o)

    ~Chrissy
    http://www.myhootdesigns.com

    Reply
  72. danielle040575 says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:52 pm

    Hoping to win!
    I usually pipe icing on cupcakes. I did find a neat technique that was intended for cookies, but I think it applies to anything iced.
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxE-pnqmsE0
    It makes clean-up a breeze, especially when using non-disposable bags.
    My daughter and I love to bake, and hope to win your book!

    Reply
  73. April N Ohio says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:00 pm

    LOOOOOVE this Blog!

    Reply
  74. trickyfish says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:02 pm

    Oohh! Pick me!

    Reply
  75. J Moore says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:06 pm

    Hopefully I will win this week :0) I frost my cupcakes using the same techniques you use. I like using a 1M or 2D tip with a large coupler and disposable piping bags. Congrats again on your new book!!
    email: jmoorecoupons (at) aol (dot) com

    Reply
  76. JennB says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:09 pm

    I tend to pipe frosting.

    Reply
  77. johannah says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:15 pm

    I would so love to win this! I found your blog like class for me.Thank you!

    Reply
  78. Amy says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:26 pm

    I would love to win!

    Reply
  79. kim gasaway says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:34 pm

    Thank you! My cupcakes were not so cute, and now I know where I went wrong. Your giveaway looks super fun. I hope choose me!

    Reply
  80. Beth Jackson Klosterboer says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:36 pm

    I haven't made very many cupcakes as of late but will be making some soon and plan to pipe on the frosting. It looks so much prettier that way.

    Beth @ Hungry Happenings

    Reply
  81. Beth says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:49 pm

    I'm a spatula spreader, but might have to break out the old piping supplies! Very pretty!

    Reply
  82. Dana says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:51 pm

    Hi again-
    Please enter me in this week's giveaway!

    Reply
  83. Melinda says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:52 pm

    I always pipe frosting on my cupcakes and would love the prize pack!

    Reply
  84. karenb says

    January 24, 2012 at 9:33 pm

    Piping Frosting is definitely the way to go!!! It's very fast, easy and looks "professional!" And, best of all, no messy, sticky fingers!!

    Looking forward to your book!!! I pre-ordered it on Amazon as soon as you announced it!! Would LOVE to get a sneak peek!

    Reply
  85. Amanda says

    January 24, 2012 at 9:33 pm

    I love the pink houndstooth cupcake liners!
    After visiting this blog almost daily I finally faced my fears and tried the marshmallow fondant. It was a success! I was able to make fondant topped cupcakes as the favors for my godchild's Baptism. 🙂

    Reply
  86. keshakeke says

    January 24, 2012 at 9:55 pm

    I would love to win!!!!!!!! Thank you for showing the different techniques with the tips!!! Very helpful.

    Reply
  87. Christina says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:02 pm

    I would l♥ve to win!!! I pipe my cupcakes too. If I win I would share with my daughter, she is 12 years old, and has is spending lots of time in the kitchen with me. Baking is such a wonderful way for my daughter and I to spend time together. Congratulations on your new book. I will definitely be picking up a copy 😉

    Reply
  88. Anne M Adams says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:06 pm

    I pipe with an open star and want to win!

    Reply
  89. Anonymous says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:07 pm

    Love your blog. Thanks for the give a way. Really want your book, Congratulations. lputm@hotmail.com

    Reply
  90. Monsters33 says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:24 pm

    I use a good old spatula but it looks easy enough to pipe it on. I'll have to try it!
    mommy.2kidsnc(at)yahoo(dot)com

    Reply
  91. Mac says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:32 pm

    I just started piping my cupcakes. I use to use just a spatula and I course your awesome frosting, but decided to step it up now that my daughter is growing up and actually cares about presentation rather than just te taste.

    Reply
  92. Faith says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:54 pm

    I agree that once I started piping it was much easier and faster. I also start out piping from the outside and then in. I'll have to try it the way you recommended and see what works better. Always love your post!

    fuzzygreengnome@hotmail.com

    Reply
  93. Holley and Brandon says

    January 24, 2012 at 11:18 pm

    I would love to win! I'm just getting into cookie decorating and I'm so glad I found your blog. Can't wait for your book!

    Reply
  94. Katherine says

    January 25, 2012 at 12:01 am

    I would LOVE to win this amazing prize pack :)! I just stumbled onto your website and I LOVE it! I am definitely a "piper". There is a time to spread and a time to pipe and I mostly pipe. I am also addicted to mini-cookie cutters because the shapes fit so perfectly on my cupcakes!

    Reply
  95. Barbie bakes says

    January 25, 2012 at 12:04 am

    I LOVE your blog and the recipes and the ideas and the PINK! I like to pipe on my cupcakes….spreading tends to pull the cake off and not as pretty! I'm SUPER excited to get your book….and LOVE the pink!
    Barbie

    Reply
  96. Kim says

    January 25, 2012 at 12:16 am

    Super awesome

    Reply
  97. Lori H says

    January 25, 2012 at 12:32 am

    Here's to hoping to win!

    Reply
  98. Angie says

    January 25, 2012 at 12:52 am

    Piping is the way to go!! Can't wait til the book is finally out.

    Reply
  99. Kate says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:14 am

    I would love to win this package. I have a cookie cutter club meeting February 4th with a country theme and we are suppose to wear an apron. I don't own an apron. If I win the apron everyone will ask what my apron means and I can tell them about your new book. They love that kind of stuff. Hey it's Kate the lady that makes the peacock cookies.

    Reply
  100. liltwinkiegirl says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:14 am

    hmm…i'll have to try that piping…makes the cupcakes look gourmet

    Reply
  101. Sarah Mae says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:31 am

    I use a spatula but only because I don't have decorator bags or tips. I'd love to invest in some someday, but I am disabled and unable to work, so it isn't in the budget right now. Piping makes them so pretty!

    sarah_mae_ at hotmail dot com

    Reply
  102. All Alone N Sad in Life says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:32 am

    I am new to baking and blogging (is that what you call it?). In fact, yours is the first one I have subscribed to. I love the cover of your book and the beautiful and delicious looking things you make.

    I do have a question: Why NOT royal icing? And what is royal icing?

    I would love to win, but will be happy to know that you and your site (blog?) are here for me to come to for help and ideas.

    Congratulations and a Happy Life to you (all)

    bethcobb13@gmail.com

    Reply
  103. Anonymous says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:54 am

    I would love to win! I have just recently had the time to read more blogs (since been laid off, after 20 years). My husband is encouraging me to follow my love of cooking and mainly baking and see what I can do with it! It would be wonderful to have these beautiful items!! xoxox You have a very wonderful blog!!

    Alice
    aew569@aol.com

    Reply
  104. Susan1961 says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:23 am

    I used to always spread my frosting until I started decorating cookies just recently! Now I pipe…I think it looks prettier & we eat with our eyes too:)

    I'd love to win!! Congrats on your book…it's like delivering a new baby! (My daughter just found out she is pregnant with baby #3 yesterday so I have babies on the brain!!)

    Thanks,
    s.nienhuis@live.com

    Reply
  105. Lindsay says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:28 am

    Can't wait for the new book! I love checking out your blog for inspiration, as I am uddia budding cookie artist/decorator:)
    lindsay_boger@yahoo.com

    Reply
  106. Kelly says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:31 am

    Thanks for the great tutorial and the chance to win the awesome giveaway!!

    kelly@siblingstew.com

    Reply
  107. TexasHockeyMom says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:39 am

    Thanks for all the great decorating tips!

    Reply
  108. Carmen says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:41 am

    What a great prize package! Thanks for the decorating tips!

    Reply
  109. Anonymous says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:44 am

    Pick me!

    Reply
  110. annc999 says

    January 25, 2012 at 3:03 am

    What a GREAT giveaway for bakers like me. I would love to share this with my son's girlfriend, as she is learning to bake and loves it.

    Thanks for your kindness and generosity.

    Reply
  111. Fátima says

    January 25, 2012 at 3:40 am

    I enjoyed your tutorial on how to pipe very much. I usually use the round tip but I would like to try using the petal tip. I want to win!! Congratulations on your book.

    Reply
  112. JLL24 says

    January 25, 2012 at 3:45 am

    Maybe today is a less crazy day for you! Would love to win your sneak peek prize pak. My son loves cupcakes!

    Reply
  113. Cheryl M says

    January 25, 2012 at 4:04 am

    Great giveaway! Would love to win it.

    Reply
  114. Kristina says

    January 25, 2012 at 4:56 am

    These prizes are adorable! I love to bake and I love the decorated cookie! My baking buddies (aka my neighbors, best friends, basically sisters) bake cupcakes all the time! The girls always let me pipe the frosting on because its my favorite part! (besides tasting) Would love to win! We are 18, 13 and 10 and someday hope to own our own bakery! Thanks you for your tips and blog! Love it!

    Reply
  115. Patty Solorzano says

    January 25, 2012 at 5:17 am

    I'm from central america and I definitely admire your work of art! I'm getting ready to buy your book on february! I have family in california who would receive the delivery and send it down here to me! i really want to win!!!

    Reply
  116. Lorraine says

    January 25, 2012 at 11:33 am

    I both pipe frosting and use a knife to spread. Depends on if the kids are helping!

    Reply
  117. Anonymous says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:51 pm

    Thank you for your blog. Just found you today because I was searching for decorating cupcakes for a special program where I am providing refreshments! I'd love to win!!!!
    kimmers_zoo@hotmail.com

    Reply
  118. CarrieAnn13 says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:01 pm

    I would love this prize pack. I almost always pipe my frosting on. Thanks for the chance

    Reply
  119. gramm44 says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:15 pm

    I use a spatula but after reading your directions I'll certainly try piping them. Used your cookie icing recipe "Almost Royal Icing" during the holidays and it worked just great. So much better than just royal icing. My grandchildren had a ball decorating all those cookies and with the new icing recipe they even tasted good.
    Hope I win.

    Reply
  120. Evelyn says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:24 pm

    I also used to spatula, but now only use a decorating bag and tip. SOOO much easier, and prettier too!

    Reply
  121. Theresa C. Eldridge says

    January 25, 2012 at 3:09 pm

    Love your site and want this book! AWESOME giveaway, my fingers are crossed! Thanks for the chance and God bless!

    Reply
  122. mary says

    January 25, 2012 at 4:13 pm

    I have found it's so much fun to pipe the frosting on that I tend to do that more. And I have to admit that I haven't tried different tips, so now I'm going to give that a go as well. Thanks!

    Reply
  123. Debbie says

    January 25, 2012 at 4:23 pm

    I like the open star tip the best, but they all are great. Just love cupcakes

    Reply
  124. MinorsaMommy says

    January 25, 2012 at 4:48 pm

    Just found your blog and am uber excited to try out some of your recipes! Winning would just be a bonus:)

    Reply
  125. Meari says

    January 25, 2012 at 4:58 pm

    I always wondered how bakeries make the cupcakes look so nice. Now I know. Can't wait to try this. I think I like the star tip the best! Thanks for sharing. ☺

    Reply
  126. Cathy says

    January 25, 2012 at 5:08 pm

    YAY
    Yes i would love to win 🙂
    I love cupcakes
    Cheers
    Catie

    Reply
  127. Kath U says

    January 25, 2012 at 5:14 pm

    I always use decorating tips to frost my cupcakes. Thanks for the wonderful tips!

    Reply
  128. Tracy says

    January 25, 2012 at 5:24 pm

    Sign me up to win! I've pre-ordered your book.. cannot wait!!

    Reply
  129. Jenn Bontrager says

    January 25, 2012 at 5:25 pm

    Please enter me in your drawing! And I agree with you. Once I started piping frosting on my cupcakes there was no going back. It just gives it a cuter look in my opinion! Can't wait to see your book.

    Reply
  130. Jennifer Green says

    January 25, 2012 at 6:19 pm

    Love your blog! and would love to win 🙂 keep up the amazing work!

    Reply
  131. Tanja - In love with a cupcake :) says

    January 25, 2012 at 6:34 pm

    I pipe, crazy flowers, grass, swirls, stars … it takes forever, but it's the best part of baking cupcakes 🙂 Oh yes, if I do win – it's not for me but my very dearest friend, I have only seen once in 8 years .. Love my best friend, Susan from Provo Utah ..

    Reply
  132. Amanda Joy {Joy in the Jumble} says

    January 25, 2012 at 7:57 pm

    I just discovered your blog through pinterest, and am now a new follower. Congrats on the new book. I look forward to following.

    Reply
  133. Kristine E. says

    January 25, 2012 at 8:27 pm

    Piping is soooo much easier. I love cupcakes.

    Reply
  134. Anonymous says

    January 25, 2012 at 9:13 pm

    I love me some cupcakes!

    Reply
  135. OneInAMillion says

    January 25, 2012 at 9:14 pm

    Yum! Please enter me in your drawing.

    Reply
  136. Heather H says

    January 25, 2012 at 9:21 pm

    I frost my cupcakes the easy way – with piping bags!

    Reply
  137. April says

    January 25, 2012 at 10:15 pm

    I just found your blog, and am loving it! I'm just getting into piping, and LOVE IT!!! My 5 year old daughter also love to pipe, and she's pretty good! We'd love to win some goodies, and we are ordering your book!

    Reply
  138. Missy says

    January 25, 2012 at 10:16 pm

    So far, I've only been a spreader, but I'd love to master the piping method since they look so much prettier. I love this prize package

    Reply
  139. Taysha says

    January 25, 2012 at 10:33 pm

    Would love to add to my cookie book collection

    Reply
  140. Astoria Girl says

    January 25, 2012 at 11:10 pm

    Still spreading on icing – the pink spatula would come in handy!

    Reply
  141. linnetknits says

    January 25, 2012 at 11:20 pm

    I've always been a spreader but have been thinking I need to start piping – this would push me over the edge! Doesn't it take more frosting that way? It looks like it would. Thanks for all the help and the chance at the lovely giveaway!

    Reply
  142. Dawn D says

    January 25, 2012 at 11:32 pm

    My girls would love if we won !

    Reply
  143. Dawn D says

    January 25, 2012 at 11:33 pm

    My girls and I would love to win!

    Reply
  144. Anonymous says

    January 26, 2012 at 12:06 am

    I'm a novice at piping but would love to practice some more. Pick me!!!
    Sally
    P.S. thanks for the opportunity to win!

    Reply
  145. Lorie says

    January 26, 2012 at 12:32 am

    Congrats on the new book! I found your blog through Craft Gossip and I love it!

    Reply
  146. Shari says

    January 26, 2012 at 2:29 am

    Wonderful giveaway. I would love to give all this girly pink equipment to my granddaughter for her birthday. We spend many happy hours together baking on the weekends. Her favorite color is pink. Thanks for the opportunity to win.

    Reply
  147. menucha says

    January 26, 2012 at 2:38 am

    Congrats on your new book! I would love to win!!

    Reply
  148. Karey says

    January 26, 2012 at 4:04 am

    Wow, those are awesome looking cupcakes! I wish mine turned out like that too!

    Reply
  149. Carmela C says

    January 26, 2012 at 4:43 am

    I need to pipe more…love your prize pack- great giveaway!

    Reply
  150. Helenna L. says

    January 28, 2012 at 3:55 am

    I found your blog because I would love to learn to pipe frosting!! Like your fabulous giveway, so thought I would leave a comment!! Thanks for the tips on piping and the giveaway!!

    Reply
  151. julie says

    January 28, 2012 at 1:19 pm

    I love the tutorial. Thanks and the giveaway as well.

    Reply
  152. Evelyn R says

    January 28, 2012 at 1:43 pm

    I usually spread but you make it look so easy…..I will have to give piping a try

    Reply
  153. Cassandra Holdeman says

    January 28, 2012 at 5:43 pm

    If I only have a few minutes I grab a spatula, but if I have more time I fill the cupcake and then pipe them.

    Reply
  154. Lori H says

    January 28, 2012 at 7:33 pm

    I pipe more often now thanks to blogs like yours!

    Reply
  155. Kimberly Crouch says

    January 30, 2012 at 1:57 pm

    Would really like to thank you for the super tips, I have learned from your site. It’s so nice of you to share. Yes, I would love to win your prize. Thanks with a millon cupcakes. <3

    Reply
  156. Amanda says

    February 16, 2012 at 10:00 pm

    I frost my cupcakes with a freezer bag. I don’t have a decorating bag or tips, but they manage to come out cute anyway 🙂

    Reply
  157. Gina says

    April 18, 2012 at 7:40 pm

    I love using the open star to decorate my cupcakes. Piping is much more fun and faster than spreading. And prettier. Great giveaway. Hope I win.

    Reply
  158. charity says

    April 19, 2012 at 9:20 pm

    so, i know your give away is over, bummer, i just found you. but anyhow, im glad i found you, i am thinking about starting an online bakery and your piping techniques are just what i needed, i can bake like no other but dont have much experience piping(none that were possitive yet) but reading this i see the error of my ways and when i make cupcakes this weekend im gonna try it your way! Thank you for this post!!!

    Reply
  159. jackie harris says

    May 20, 2012 at 8:40 pm

    i would to win i bake lots cup cakes and will use you piping ideal thank you

    Reply
  160. Estee says

    July 10, 2013 at 6:45 pm

    Hi there
    Have been obsessively reading your website in preparation for my daughter’s upcoming FIRST BDAY!!
    New to baking….!!
    Question- for cupcakes, which store bought icing do you recommend?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • meaghanmountford says

      July 12, 2013 at 9:49 am

      Hi Estee! Thanks so much! For store-bought, I just use Dunkin HInes or Betty Crocker or any of the tubs of frosting, however, to pipe the frosting on with a tip, you will have to thicken store-bought icing. Blend in confectioner’s sugar (more than you’d think, it takes quite a bit).

      Reply
  161. Julia says

    January 7, 2016 at 8:38 am

    Thanks for the tips!

    Reply
  162. Pa says

    January 19, 2016 at 10:11 am

    Awesome giveaway! Me please. I am a newbie at cake decorating. I am a mother of 5 boys. Buying cakes and cup cakes are just so expensive so i decide to decorate my own. I love your ideas and previous ones too. Keep up the great work.

    Reply

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Welcome

Hi! I'm Meaghan. I blog about sweet and easy food crafts. ClICK to READ MORE terribly interesting things about me.

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cookie decorating 101: How to decorate cookies.

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a roundup of two ingredient recipes - thirty 2-ingredient recipes
RAINBOW CHOCOLATE BARK-- swirls of colorful candy in white chocolate for a delicious ,easy, no-bake dessert for St. Patrick's Day or a rainbow party.
This Girl Scout cookies chocolate bark is a fun and easy way to use all your delicious Girl Scout cookies in one dessert. Great for parties.
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MINI ROSE COOKIES -- Simple buttercream frosting flowers on bite-size cut-out sugar cookies are a pretty and pink Valentine's Day cookie idea. #valentinesday #cookiedecorating #rosecookies #flowers #pink #frosting

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