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Beatriz da Costa

Original purpose: Creating an army of gingerbread men.
Aha! use: Stenciling designs on frosted or unfrosted cakes. Place cookie cutters on top and fill with sprinkles, powdered sugar, or cocoa powder. (Warning: This technique may convince guests you've taken a master class in cake decorating.)
Reward: A shortcut to creative cake toppers.

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New Uses for Old Things

Related Content

How do I bake a from-scratch cake at high altitude so that it rises properly?

Adjust the amounts of the leavening agents to produce a cake that is as level as it is delicious. Read on to find out the specifics.

Do you have a new use for an old thing?

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Quick Tip  

Set baking sheets in the center of the oven rack, two inches between them, so heat circulates evenly.

Oven