I need some help. I have made several practice runs for a wedding cake that I am doing and every single time the buttercream starts to look cracked after I put it on the cake. I use the Viva paper towel method to smooth it after it is on. Can anyone give me any pointers as to what I maybe doing wrong or tips that I don't know about? I appreciate the help in advance!
How soon after you ice your cake do you smooth it with the paper towels? You want to do this as soon as it crusts. If you wait too long it will look more like elephant skin.
If it cracks after you move the cake, then your support (cake board) is not strong enough.
What buttercream recipe are you using?
One thing you can try with the recipe you're using -- drop 2 or 3 drops of vinegar in the icing -- the amount is so small it should not affect the taste at all.
I am using the buttercream dream. I am also using the paper towel method right after I frost when it first starts to crust. I will try using the vinegar. Thanks for all the replies!
Hi! ... Great advice here!
I use Buttercream Dream, too, but have not experienced cracking. I used it last week on my mom's birthday cake, and had to drive 3 hours to my sister's shore house for the party. It held up nicely for me (thank goodness!). I have not used it on stacked cakes yet, though. Anyway, maybe it has something to do with the butter(s) and/or shortening? (I used Land-o-Lakes salted and unsalted, along with Crisco ~ the "regular" kind, not that new zero trans fat version that I see other users mention.)
Good luck! And please be sure to share pictures of the wedding cake! 
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