Ever wonder how professional chefs get that smooth, crumb-free finish on multiple tiers of layer cakes? Or fluffy mounds of frosting with delicate swirls and patterns? Or dead-level custard in their tarts? The answer is simple. They use the best offset spatula. An offset spatula has a blade set slightly below the handle. This lets you smooth your frosting level without dipping your knuckles into it.
The Oxo Good Grips Large Bent Icing Spatula comes from a trusted brand in baking tools, with a medium-sized blade that can handle a wide variety of baking tasks.
Although other types of spatulas come in a variety of materials, most offset spatulas have a stainless steel blade. The handle is another story and can be plastic, wood or metal. Which you choose is largely a matter of preference, but it should be noted that offset spatulas with wood handles cannot go in the dishwasher.
Blades come in three essential lengths, not including the handle.
The blade you select should match the task at hand. For example, picking a small blade to frost a wedding cake is not going to get the job done.
Regardless of the handle material, you want to make sure it has good grip. When frosting cakes, it is inevitable that a little bit of grease from a rich, buttery frosting makes its way onto the handle. A small dent to rest your thumb on can also keep your hands stable.
A dishwasher-safe offset spatula means you can use this essential tool everyday with easy cleanup. Although hand-washing does not take long, it can get tedious for busy bakers.
Regardless of the type of handle, you'll need to ensure that the blade is securely attached. The last thing you want is frosting flying across the table when the blade separates. A full-tang blade is one that reaches well into the handle, almost to the end. This is preferable to flimsy, glued attachments that can fail in a minute.
For such a critical tool for bakers, offset spatulas are remarkably affordable. You can get a high-quality spatula for $7 to $10.
A. Yes. Use your offset spatula to:
A. Of course. An offset spatula makes it easier to create smooth frosting, but it is not required to frost a cake.
Oxo Good Grips Large Bent Icing Spatula
What you need to know: This is a sturdy choice from a trusted kitchen brand.
What you’ll love: The stainless steel blade is 6.5 inches long and flexible to spread easily, but still stiff enough to hold frosting from the bowl to the cake. The handle is comfortable to hold and doesn’t become slippery, and it is dishwasher-safe. It’s well-balanced and also comes in a slightly smaller size for cupcakes.
What you should consider: The large size is hard to maneuver into tight spaces.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: If you aren't sold on the idea of a specific spatula for frosting cakes, this is an affordable place to start.
What you’ll love: The plastic handle features a dent to rest your thumb so your grip won’t fail at a key moment. The blade is stainless steel and 6.5 inches. The blade is thin but still sturdy. The price is right.
What you should consider: This needs to be washed by hand.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Ateco Ultra Silver Offset Spatula
What you need to know: This is best for cupcakes and other small baked confections.
What you’ll love: The stainless steel blade is just over 4 inches for maximum control even for frosting mini cupcakes. It’s lightweight and dishwasher-safe.
What you should consider: If you use this to plate pastries or other fine desserts, save it for smaller pieces.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Suzannah Kolbeck writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
