mushroom forest

ÚÛ

Making a small tiered cake can turn even an intimate gathering into a memorable event. For this one, a tree slab stand is a fun prop that adds to the rustic effect. Pair the Espresso Icing on page 68 with sugar paste mushrooms in warm tones to give the cake a natural quality. For a spackled-looking finish, crisscross the icing in an organic pattern with a mini spatula or a spoon.

ÚÛ

THESE LIGHTHEARTED AND FANCIFUL MUSHROOMS can easily be geared towards kids or adults. You can sculpt them with sugar paste or marzipan in realistic earthy tones or bright colors. Here I’ve created an ombré effect with the color of the mushrooms descending from a pale yellow to a deep mustard. This adds a fun twist to an already whimsical idea, while keeping the overall design simple.