Icings

* Use the icing as soon as it is made. All icing sets up quickly
and either forms a crust or becomes very stiff.

* Buy a icing spatula to apply icing. A good icing spatula will
enable you to work faster and the results will look great.

* Thin buttercream icing with evaporated milk or warm water. Use
only a little liquid and use a icing spatula to mix in.

* Thin cold chocolate buttercream icing with a little hot water
or hot coffee. Use only a small amount and mix in with a icing spatula.

* Always sprinkle toppings on while the icing is fresh, wet and
sticky. When the icing is too dry for topping to stick, thin it
with a little water or milk.

* Store buttercream icing in an air tight container in the refrigerator.
Fresh is best, so don't make buttercream icing in advance if possible.

* Always let the buttercream warm to room temperature before thinning
it down for use.