Anyone can throw together a basic sponge cake, but learning how to ice it like a pro is the key to becoming queen of the school bake sale. If you're more Raquel Welch than Rachel Allen, fear not: all you need is the right tools (try your local gourmet store or Decobake) a spare hour and a decent tutorial to turn yourself into the neighbourhood Nigella. Just don't tell anyone your secret. Here's how: Start with a basic cake recipe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaNELscDtms Whack some buttercream between the two sponges, stick 'em one on top of the other, then learn how to pipe buttercream ruffles (simple-we promise): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhSmYvl3dQ0 Mastered that? Great, now it's time to attempt the Ombre Rosette... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cBOMhnHwQM You won't believe this but you're more than ready to get familiar with the fondant ruffle. We kid you not.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucjsOcitN1c All that's left now is to translate your new skills to cupcake decoration... if only so that more people can be allowed to appreciate your baking prowess.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Np6ewLL86A4