Ep 15. The Icing Man Commeth

In Good Eats season 6 episode 15, titled "The Icing Man Commeth," host Alton Brown dives into the world of cake decorating with a focus on icing. Brown begins the episode by exploring the history of cake decorating and the evolution of icing, from basic buttercream to modern fondant.

Throughout the episode, Brown provides tips and techniques for creating beautiful and unique cake designs using different types of icing. He demonstrates how to make a smooth buttercream frosting using a stand mixer and shares his method for creating a "crumb coat" to prevent cake crumbs from mixing into the final layer of frosting.

Brown also explores piping techniques using royal icing, which is a stiff icing traditionally used for decorating gingerbread houses. He shows viewers how to use a piping bag and various tips to create borders, flowers, and other designs on cakes.

In addition to traditional buttercream and royal icing, Brown also explores alternative types of icing such as ganache and poured fondant. He demonstrates how to make a rich chocolate ganache and uses it to fill and frost a layered cake. He also shows viewers how to make poured fondant, a type of icing that can be poured over cakes to create a smooth, glossy finish.

Throughout the episode, Brown emphasizes the importance of practice and experimentation when it comes to cake decorating. He encourages viewers to have fun and try different techniques and designs to find their own personal style.

Overall, "The Icing Man Commeth" is a fun and informative episode of Good Eats that provides viewers with a wealth of information on cake decorating and icing techniques. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this episode is sure to inspire you to try new things in the kitchen and create beautiful and delicious cakes for all occasions.