How To: Frost a cake like a professional

Ever wonder how the pros get their cakes to look so pretty? Here's how.

You will need:
* A cooled-down cake
* A serrated knife
* A platter
* Strips of wax paper
* Frosting
* An offset spatula or table knife
* A spoon
* A wooden skewer (optional)

Step 1: Slice off the top of your cake, if dome-shaped. The serrated knife will make a uniform, flat surface for your frosting.

Step 2: Add a tiny bit of frosting to the center of the platter. This will keep your cake from moving as you frost.

Step 3: Add the wax paper. Line the edges of the platter with the strips of wax paper. The cake will hold them in place.

Step 4: Set your cake on the platter.

Step 5: Frost the top, then the sides. Use an offset spatula or table knife to distribute the frosting evenly, and repeat this step if you have more than one layer.

If the temperature in the kitchen is hot – and the frosting gets runny – place the cake in the freezer for a few minutes, then continue frosting.

Step 6: Add the finishing touches. With your spoon, create wave-like patterns in the frosting – or keep it smooth.

If you're working with a tall layer cake, insert a wooden skewer through the middle to keep the layers from sliding.

Step 7: Remove the wax paper. Now you have a clean platter to display that great-looking cake!

Fact: The first boxed chocolate cake mix was presented in 1948 by Pillsbury.