bake - March 2016 - 48

DECORATING TRENDS
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SOMETIMES IT'S
WHO YOU KNOW

Beyond the shape and structure of cake designs
for this year, cake decorators need to know the
latest trends in cake decorating. According
to Craftsy contributor Erin Gardner, an awardwinning cake designer and author, every cake
decorator should take note of these six decorating
trends in 2016.
Drippy, Deconstructed Cakes
Deconstructed cakes are slowly gaining popularity and destined to be a breakout trend of
2016. The care-free nature of these cakes enables
cake decorators to have the ultimate artistic freedom when designing. Gardner notes that key elements of this cake include, "the use of fresh fruit
and edible flowers, chocolate shards, lots of candy
used as decor, and the signature drippy ganache."

hile planning to earn both a master of science and
doctorate degree in biology, Norman Fox wanted
something to do "on the side." His "something on the side,"
was the Donut Den which turned into a 33-year success.
When Norman decided to open a doughnut shop, a friend,
Herb Stewart, introduced him to Oliver Harlow, founder of
Honey Flush Donuts, a 40-store chain. Stewart and Harlow
helped Norman open the Donut Den, in July, 1973, in
Nashville, Tennessee. "Oliver Harlow not only inspired, but
gave me valuable practical advice," said Norman.
Harlow started using International® Bakers Services (IBS)
flavorings in the 1960s, and suggested that Norman do the
same. He highly recommended Cinnamon-Butter Blend.
Today, that flavor is the secret ingredient in the Donut Den's
Apple Fritters-their most popular product. "There is no other
type of cinnamon flavoring that makes the product taste this
good," stated Norman.
Consistency is the key to success in any business.
Maintaining a core product line and keeping up with new
trends keeps regular customers coming back and attracts new
customers as well. "Another secret to help ensure consistent
quality is our own Harold Graves, the cook for the Donut Den
for over 30 years," Norman stated. But he attributes his 33
years of success to following Harlow's recommendation-relying on the flavors from International® Bakers Services. "Their
flavors are consistently the best," according to Norman.
Norman was a graduate student during the first four years
of the Donut Den. After earning his doctorate degree, he
taught in university classrooms. But it was a friend of a friend
who taught him his most valuable business lessons. Sometimes
it's who you know that helps the most.
If you value consistent quality, you should get to know
International® Bakers Services. Contact us toll-free at
(800) 345-7175, by fax at (574) 287-7161, or in writing at
1902 North Sheridan Ave., South Bend, Indiana 46628.
We have the flavors your customers deserve.

Ring Around the Cake
It is time to take floral cakes in a new direction
and that direction seems to be more rustic and
bohemian. Instead of tightly bundled floral arrangements, customers are seeking out more
free-flowing and lackadaisical looks that resemble
flower crowns and wreaths.
Boundary-Pushing Buttercream
Bakery customers are ready to step away from the
fondant and indulge in some delicious buttercream,
but they still want cake decorators to pump up the
creativity. Gardner notes, "Last year's rustic buttercream textures are going to make way for buttercream cakes that are fresher and bolder in appearance. As more cake designers dig deeper into their
bag of tricks, the limits of what buttercream can do
will continue to be tested."
Pantone Pastels
Rose Quartz and Serenity were chosen by Pantone
as the colors of the year. It is a striking contrast from the 2015 choice of marsala, but these
feminine pastel colors are a natural fit for cake
decorators.
Dreamy Watercolor
Painted cakes continue to be a popular theme in
2016 due to the artistry behind the look. A watercolor cake makes the painted cake trend even
easier to achieve.

bake - March 2016

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