Planet Cake Course - Basics 102

I headed to Planet Cake's headquarters in Balmain yesterday for their Basic 102 course. I arrived at 9:30 for the course's commencement at 10am with what felt like a hundred butterflies in my stomach. I was about to learn from some of the very best in the cake decorating industry, and I couldn't wait to get started.

Part of my reason for the nerves was that I was about to learn things that I had never before attempted: ganaching and covering a square cake, making a big bow, and making a figurine. Clean, straight lines are very difficult to achieve, with even many seasoned decorators in the industry opting for round cakes instead to avoid them. This was not a challenger to shirk away from. It was going to be a big day, but I was ready :)

Under the friendly guidance of our teacher, Jessica and Planet Cake apprentice, Adam, myself and around 8 others set about our task of creating the present box with a figurine.

At each step Jessica demonstrated the technique required , and we then had a go with our own cake back on our benches. We also had notes to refer back to, but Jessica and Adam were on hand throughout the class to encourage and supervise our work, lending fantastic tips and advice along the way.

An unexpected bonus on the day was meeting Planet Cake's Paris Cutler, who joined us for a quick chat during our lunch break. She offered us some encouraging words about cake decorating, as well as some advice on the realities working in the industry.

At the end of the class, we had some time to take pictures of our work, as well as a group shot. Tired but happy, it was so satisfying to see all of the beautiful cakes we had created.

One of my favourite aspects of the class (which is difficult to decide, because it was all so amazing!) was learning how to make figurines. I decided that a fabulous cake called for some fabulous attire on my figurine. With a full length evening gown and pearl earring and necklace, she was oh so ladylike :)

I also painted on a little red colour for lipstick and gave her a stylish updo with a side-part to complete the effect. A lovely lady ready for the opera, or any other such posh occasion :) It was just like playing dressup - I felt like a kid again!

I must say, I am still on cloud nine after my class at Planet Cake. It was an incredible experience. I learnt so much and had so much fun in the process, that I have no doubt that I will have very fond memories of the day for a long time.

The difficulty, however, lies in deciding the fate of my chocolate mud cake... As I type this my cake is carefully boxed up and in a cool dark place at home. Whatever happens, I'm just not sure that I'll be able to bring myself to cut it... I might have to get someone else to do the deed! It really is incredibly how emotionally attached you can get to food when you put your heart and soul into it!

Since posting this story, this cake was donated to the families of Ronald McDonald House in Randwick, NSW. Ronald McDonald House provides support to seriously ill children and their families. To learn more about Ronald McDonald House, click here.

Ladybird x