Use these piping techniques on your next batch of sugar cookies!
While a butter knife can get the job done, using piping tips to frost your sugar cookies creates a much more polished and professional look.
Baker Mandy Merriman shared four stunning buttercream piping techniques that will make your Valentine’s Day treats extra special.
Step 1: Prep Your Buttercream
Buttercream consistency is key! Mandy says you’ll need a medium to stiff consistency so your designs hold their shape without making piping too difficult. If it’s too stiff, add a little heavy cream; if it’s too thin, add powdered sugar.
Coloring the Buttercream
- Red: Mandy loves the Americolor Red Coloring Gel. Let it sit for an hour to deepen the color.
- Pink: Mandy recommends Americolor Soft Pink for a soft, romantic hue.
- White: Use as is, or add a tiny bit of violet coloring (a toothpick’s worth!) to neutralize any yellow tones.
Step 2: Piping Techniques
Ombre Shell Design
Tools: Wilton #32 piping tip (you’ll need three)
- Pipe white shells in a row, pulling each shell toward the tip of the heart.
- Switch to pink and repeat.
- Finish with red for a gorgeous ombre effect!
Rosette Swirl Design
Tools: Wilton #32 piping tip
- Pipe small swirls in alternating colors to cover the cookie.
- Tuck the end of each rosette under the next to prevent “tails.”
- Add white sprinkle spheres for an elegant touch.
Ombre Lines
Tools: Wilton #5 round piping tip
- Start at the tip of the heart, piping thin lines back and forth.
- Work in white, pink, and red sections to create an ombre effect.
Braid Design
Tools: Wilton #16 piping tip (you’ll need three)
- Pipe small shells in a crisscross pattern, creating a braided effect.
- Continue across the heart to give it a cozy, sweater-like design!
Using piping bags with couplers makes it easy to switch tips between colors. Some designs require multiple tips of the same size, so having extras on hand is helpful!
Find all of Mandy’s frosting tips here.
Find more from Mandy on Instagram, @bakingwithblondie, or on her website, bakingwithblondie.com.
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