We’re thinking stripes this week, so let’s talk striped cakes. Our baking pro, Theresa, showed a simple way to create clean, even buttercream stripes — and with the right tools it’s much easier than it looks. You can make a classic cabana-style cake or go bold with a rainbow version, perfect for summer birthdays and celebrations.
Cabana Striped Cakes
Total Time: Varies (assembly and chilling time included)
Supplies
Cake turntable
Buttercream (prepared and tinted to desired colors)
Piping bags
Large round piping tips (a wide round tip works well)
Large bench scraper or icing smoother
Offset spatula
Directions
1. Start with a filled, stacked, and crumb-coated cake that has been chilled for at least 30 minutes. A cold cake helps the buttercream hold its shape while piping.
2. Divide your buttercream into piping bags fitted with large round tips. Plan for about 1–2 cups of frosting per color, depending on cake size and the number of stripes you want.
3. For a two-color striped cake, begin at the base. While rotating the turntable, pipe a steady, thick band of buttercream around the cake. If you prefer wider stripes, pipe another band directly above the first. Pipe the second color above the first, keeping bands close so there are no gaps. Continue alternating colors and building up bands until you reach the top. Finish by filling the top of the cake with the same color used last on the side.
4. Use an offset spatula to smooth the surface of the cake top, bringing any excess frosting toward the center for a neat finish.
5. Hold a bench scraper or icing smoother straight against the side of the cake. With one hand steadying the smoother and the other turning the turntable, rotate the cake to shave and even the stripes. Wipe the scraper frequently to remove excess buttercream and continue until the sides are as smooth as you like.
6. After smoothing the sides, use the offset spatula to gently pull any remaining buttercream on the top edge inward, creating a clean, finished look.
Photos by Jeff Mindell | Tutorial by Theresa Rountree
The rainbow version is especially striking. You can vary stripe widths by using different piping tip sizes for a playful, modern look. Have fun experimenting with color and scale to make a striped cake that’s uniquely yours.