Sauce Designs Using a Turntable

Of the many ways to apply sauce or decorating syrup to a serving plate, this method produces what is perhaps the most dramatic finish (see Color Photo 64). The base of the plates used should measure at least 7 inches (17.5 cm) across, and should be white with a plain white rim or with a simple design. An elaborate pattern on the china will clash with the flashy sauce design. The sauce or syrup should have the consistency of molasses; make a few trial spins and adjust as needed. The sauce or syrup may be spun so that it remains within the base of the plate, or it can be made to spray out onto the rim, but it should never go over the rim, which would look sloppy and would also make the plates difficult to pick up for serving. You will need a cake decorating turntable with a heavy cast iron base, a cake pan 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter and 2 inches (5 cm) in height, wide masking tape, and heavy string such as that used for trussing.