Top 10 Cake Decorator Certifications

Certifications are important for cake decorators in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills needed to do the job. Certification can also help cake decorators stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs, as it shows potential employers that they have taken the time and effort to learn specific techniques and have a commitment to their craft. Additionally, certifications can provide cake decorators with access to resources, such as discounts on supplies or exclusive networking opportunities. These benefits can help them stay up-to-date on industry trends and allow them to stay competitive in the job market.

The article reviews the top certifications for Cake Decorators, and explains how they can help to advance a cake decorator's career.

What are Cake Decorator Certifications?

Cake decorator certification is a professional designation given to individuals who have undergone specialized education and training in cake decoration. The certification indicates that the individual has achieved a level of mastery in the art of cake decoration, including techniques such as baking and icing cakes, creating decorative designs, and working with various types of fondant. With this certification, cake decorators are able to demonstrate their expertise to potential employers and customers alike.

Having a cake decorator certification can be immensely beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in the field. It shows employers that you have taken the time to learn the necessary skills and knowledge required for successful cake decoration. Additionally, it can open up new opportunities for work as many bakeries require their employees to have some form of professional certification. Furthermore, having a cake decorator certification can help set you apart from other potential job applicants when applying for positions within the industry. Finally, holding this type of credential can also increase your earning potential within the field as businesses may be more likely to hire someone with a proven track record of success in cake decoration.

Pro Tip: If you are considering pursuing a cake decorator certification, make sure to research the different programs available and find one that best fits your needs. Consider the cost, duration of the program, and any additional materials or resources included. Additionally, look into any continuing education requirements after completing the program to ensure that you stay up-to-date with industry trends and standards.

Related: What does a Cake Decorator do?

Top 10 Cake Decorator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Cake Decorators today.

1. Wilton Method of Cake Decorating Certification

The Wilton Method of Cake Decorating is a certification program offered by the Wilton School of Cake Decorating and Confectionery Art. It is designed to teach students the fundamentals of cake decorating, from basic techniques to advanced designs. The program consists of three levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level consists of two courses that are taken consecutively.

It typically takes about six months to complete all three levels of the Wilton Method of Cake Decorating Certification Program. During this time, students will learn how to properly prepare cakes for decoration, use various tools and equipment such as pastry bags and tips, create borders, flowers and other decorations with royal icing, use fondant to cover cakes and create decorations with it, as well as airbrush techniques.

To get the certification you must attend classes at a Wilton School or authorized retailer in your area. You can also take online classes through the Wilton website if there isn’t a school near you.

The cost for the entire Wilton Method of Cake Decorating Certification Program varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD per course plus materials fees.

2. Certified Professional Cake Decorator (CPCD)

Certified Professional Cake Decorator (CPCD) is a certification program offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). The program is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of skill in cake decorating. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field.

To become certified, applicants must complete a series of courses and exams, as well as demonstrate their proficiency in cake decorating through hands-on projects. The program typically takes between six months and one year to complete.

The courses cover topics such as cake design, piping techniques, fondant work, gum paste work, airbrushing, and more. Applicants must also pass a written exam before they can be certified.

The cost of the CPCD certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and the length of time it takes to complete them. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 for all course materials and exams.

Once certified, individuals are eligible for membership with ACF and can use their CPCD designation on resumes and business cards. They may also be eligible for discounts on supplies from select vendors or even job opportunities within the industry.

3. International Sugar Art Collection (ISAC) Certification

International Sugar Art Collection (ISAC) Certification is a certification program designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of excellence in the art of sugar crafting. The program focuses on the artistry, craftsmanship, and skill of sugar artists from around the world. It is an internationally recognized certification that sets professional standards for sugar artists and provides recognition for their accomplishments.

To get ISAC Certification, applicants must first complete a rigorous application process that includes submitting a portfolio of their work and demonstrating mastery in one or more areas of sugarcrafting such as cake decorating, gum paste flowers, royal icing decorations, pulled-sugar sculptures, or any other type of sugar artistry. Once approved by ISAC’s board of directors, applicants will receive their certification.

The entire process typically takes between six and eight weeks from start to finish. The cost to apply for ISAC Certification is $150 USD.

4. American Culinary Federation (ACF) Pastry and Baking Arts Certificate

The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Pastry and Baking Arts Certificate is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the pastry and baking arts. The certificate is awarded by the ACF upon successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

The program consists of two parts: an online coursework component, which includes 12 modules covering topics such as baking fundamentals, cake decorating, chocolate work, plated desserts, and more; and a hands-on practical exam. The online coursework must be completed within six months of starting the program, while the practical exam must be taken within one year of completing the coursework.

To get the certificate, individuals must first register with the ACF and pay a fee of $350. After completing both components of the program (online coursework and practical exam), they can submit their application to take the final certification exam. Upon passing this exam, they will receive their ACF Pastry and Baking Arts Certificate.

Overall, it takes approximately one year to complete all requirements for this certificate program.

5. Craftsy Professional Cake Decorating Certificate

The Craftsy Professional Cake Decorating Certificate is a comprehensive online course designed to help aspiring cake decorators gain the skills and knowledge needed to take their cake decorating business to the next level. The course covers topics such as baking techniques, fondant and gum paste work, airbrushing, and more. It also includes lessons on setting up a professional cake decorating business, marketing your services, pricing your cakes, and more.

The Craftsy Professional Cake Decorating Certificate takes approximately 12-18 hours to complete, depending on how quickly you progress through the material. To get the certificate, you must first purchase the course from Craftsy’s website. The cost of the course is $99 USD. Once you have purchased the course, you can access all of its lectures and materials at any time. After completing all of the lectures and assignments in the course, you will be eligible for a final exam which will test your knowledge of all of the topics covered in the course. Upon successful completion of this exam, you will receive your Craftsy Professional Cake Decorating Certificate.

6. Wilton Advanced Course in Cake Decorating

The Wilton Advanced Course in Cake Decorating is a series of five classes designed to give cake decorators the skills they need to create beautiful and professional-looking cakes. This course covers topics such as fondant, gumpaste, royal icing, airbrushing, and 3D sculpting. It also includes hands-on practice with cake decorating tools and techniques.

The Wilton Advanced Course in Cake Decorating typically takes around 10 weeks to complete. Each class is two hours long and usually meets once a week. The classes are taught by certified Wilton Method Instructors who have been trained in the latest cake decorating techniques.

To get the Wilton Advanced Course in Cake Decorating, you can find a local Wilton Method Instructor or take the course online through the Wilton website. Online courses include video tutorials and downloadable PDFs for each lesson.

The cost of the Wilton Advanced Course in Cake Decorating varies depending on where you take it. In-person classes typically cost between $200-$300 for all five classes, while online courses range from $50-$150 depending on the package you choose.

7. PME Professional Diploma in Cake Decorating

PME Professional Diploma in Cake Decorating is a comprehensive professional cake decorating program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to create beautiful, intricate cakes for any occasion. The diploma is offered by PME School of Sugarcraft and takes approximately 6 months to complete.

The course consists of six modules which cover topics such as sugarpaste techniques, cake structure, airbrushing, modelling, chocolate work and more. Students will learn how to create a variety of decorations including flowers, figures and other decorative elements. They will also be taught how to assemble complex tiered cakes and use various tools and equipment safely.

To get the Professional Diploma in Cake Decorating, students must complete all six modules successfully and pass an end-of-course assessment. Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive a certificate from PME School of Sugarcraft.

The cost for the Professional Diploma in Cake Decorating is £2,250 (GBP). This includes all tuition fees, materials and equipment needed for the course as well as access to online resources.

8. Royal Icing Techniques and Design Certificate

Royal Icing Techniques and Design Certificate is a certification program offered by the International Cake Exploration Societe (ICES). The certificate is designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the art of creating beautiful and intricate designs with royal icing.

The program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires completion of specific courses, exams, and projects. It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all three levels.

To get started in the Royal Icing Techniques and Design Certificate program, you must first become a member of ICES. Membership is available for $50 per year. After becoming a member, you can register for the courses offered through ICES’s online learning center or purchase course materials from their website.

Once you have completed all three levels of the program, you will receive your Royal Icing Techniques and Design Certificate from ICES. This certificate will demonstrate that you have achieved mastery in royal icing techniques and design skills.

The cost to complete the Royal Icing Techniques and Design Certificate program varies depending on which courses you take and how long it takes you to complete them. Most courses range in price from $50-$100 per course, while some may be more expensive depending on their complexity or length. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking examinations or purchasing course materials.

9. Fondant Techniques and Design Certificate

Fondant Techniques and Design Certificate is a certificate program offered by the Wilton School of Cake Decorating. It is designed to teach students the basics of fondant techniques, design principles, and cake decorating. The program consists of four classes that cover topics such as basic fondant techniques, color mixing, cake design, and finishing touches.

The program takes approximately 12 weeks to complete. Classes are held once a week for two hours each session. Each class covers different topics related to fondant techniques and design. At the end of the course, students will be able to create beautiful cakes with professional-looking results.

To get the Fondant Techniques and Design Certificate, you must first register for the program at the Wilton School of Cake Decorating website or by calling their customer service number. You will need to pay an enrollment fee which includes all materials needed for the course. After registering for the program, you will be sent a welcome packet with information about how to access your online learning platform and begin your classes.

The cost of the Fondant Techniques and Design Certificate varies depending on where you live and whether or not you are eligible for any discounts or financial aid options. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD to enroll in this program.

10. Sugar Artistry Certificate Program

The Sugar Artistry Certificate Program is a comprehensive online course designed to teach the fundamentals of sugar artistry. It is offered by the International Sugar Art Collection (ISAC) and is available to anyone interested in learning how to create beautiful, edible works of art with sugar.

The program consists of 10 modules that cover topics such as basic cake decorating techniques, sugar sculpture, royal icing flowers, gum paste figures, and airbrushing. Each module includes video tutorials, written instructions, and practice exercises. The program also provides access to an online community where students can ask questions and receive feedback from experienced instructors.

The program takes approximately 12 weeks to complete and requires a minimum of 4-6 hours per week for study and practice. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate of completion from ISAC that recognizes their achievement in the field of sugar artistry.

The cost for the Sugar Artistry Certificate Program is $299 USD. This fee covers all course materials and access to the online community for one year after completion of the program.

Do You Really Need a Cake Decorator Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a cake decorator certificate to become a professional cake decorator. The long answer is that while having a certificate may be beneficial to your career as a cake decorator, it’s not necessary.

To become a professional cake decorator, the most important thing is to have the knowledge and skills required to make beautiful cakes. You can gain these skills through practice and experimentation with different techniques and recipes. Having a solid understanding of the basics such as working with fondant, buttercream and royal icing will give you an advantage when starting out. Additionally, having experience in baking cakes will help you understand how different ingredients interact with one another and how they affect the end product.

Having a certificate can be helpful for those looking for more formal recognition of their abilities or seeking employment in an established bakery, but it’s by no means essential. Ultimately, experience and skill are what matters most when it comes to becoming a successful cake decorator.

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FAQs About Cake Decorator Certifications

1. What are the requirements for a cake decorator certification?

Answer: To receive a cake decorator certification, you must typically complete an accredited course that covers topics such as baking techniques, fondant work, sugar artistry and food safety. You may also need to pass an exam or portfolio review.

2. How long does it take to get a cake decorator certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to get a cake decorator certification varies depending on the type of program you enroll in and how quickly you complete the coursework. Generally, most programs take between 6-9 months to complete.

3. Is there an age limit for getting a cake decorator certification?

Answer: There is no age limit for getting a cake decorator certification, however some courses may have age restrictions or require parental consent if you are under 18 years old. It’s best to check with the school or program where you plan to enroll before signing up for classes.

4. Are there any prerequisites needed before starting a cake decorator certification program?

Answer: Most programs do not require any prerequisites before enrolling in a cake decorator certification program; however some may ask that you have knowledge of basic baking techniques or experience working with fondant and other decorations prior to enrollment.

5. What can I do with my cake decorator certification?

Answer: Once you have your cake decorator certification, you will be able to pursue opportunities in both commercial and private settings such as bakeries, restaurants, catering companies and more! You may also be able to find freelance work creating custom cakes for special occasions like weddings and birthdays.