National Cake Decorating Day is a holiday observed on October 10th that celebrates one of the most interesting culinary arts: cake decoration. In the past, decorating a cake was simply a matter of adding flavor to the cake, but that has evolved over time.

Now, how the cake looks is just as important as how it tastes, so both amateur and professional cake decorators must take their skills to the next level. So, if you’re a fan of cakes and cake decorating, then this might be the holiday you’ll want to celebrate on this day.

The History of Cake Decorating

Before we begin with our history of cake decorating, we should probably start with the history of cakes. Cakes have been a sweet dessert enjoyed for thousands of years. One of the earliest cakes ever made was a flat cake known as plakous.

This cake was made using flour mixed with milk, eggs, nuts, and honey. The word we have for cake now comes from the Old Norse word “kaka.” That is what Vikings called a dessert that was quite similar to modern cakes.

Although cakes had been made for thousands of years, they weren’t extensively decorated. That trend didn’t start until the 17th century in Europe. The art would be further refined during the 18th and 19th centuries until it became the art form it is today.

Delicious Facts About Cakes

Want some delicious facts about cakes and cake decorating? If you do, we’ve found some nice bits of trivia that you’re sure to enjoy. Sit back, cut yourself a slice of cake, and enjoy the following bits of cake and cake-decorating trivia.

• National Cake Day is celebrated on November 26th.
• National Chocolate Cake Day is celebrated on January 27th.
• National Lemon Chiffon Cake Day is observed on March 29th.
• National Coffee Cake Day is celebrated on April 7th.
• National Devil’s Food Cake Day is observed on May 19th.
• National German Chocolate Cake Day is observed on June 11th.
• October 10th is also National Angel Food Cake Day.
• The proverb “Piece of Cake,” as used to describe an easy task, wasn’t coined until the 20th century.
• Almost a third of U.S. schools have banned bake sales due to anti-obesity regulations.
• The first reference to a birthday cake occurred in 1785.
• In the 17th century in England, it was believed that a fruitcake placed under an unmarried person’s pillow would give them sweet dreams about their future fiancé.

Observing National Cake Decorating Day

National Cake Decorating Day can be observed by taking the time to make and decorate a cake. It’s also a good day to learn some new cake decorating tips, or if you’re already a cake decorating master, to share your knowledge with up-and-coming cake artists. While you’re observing this holiday, spread the word about it through your social media posts by using the hashtag #NationalCakeDecoratingDay.