How to Apply Edible Images to Cakes, Cookies & Cupcakes

Edible icing images are an easy way to put detailed designs, patterns or photos onto cakes, cookies and cupcakes. They’re simple to use, but a few small things make the difference between a smooth finish and a smudged or wrinkled one.

Step 1: Prepare Your Surface

The surface needs to be clean, smooth and only slightly damp. Too much moisture will make the image blur, run or dissolve.

• Fondant: Brush on a very thin layer of water or edible glue.
• Buttercream: Let the buttercream crust slightly first.
• Royal icing: Make sure it’s completely dry.
• Cookies: Apply the image onto a smooth layer of fondant or royal icing, not straight onto the cookie.

Step 2: Cut Out the Image

• Use sharp scissors or a craft knife, and cut while the backing is still on.
• Leave a tiny margin around the design so the edges don’t tear.
• If you’re cutting several images, plan them out first so they’re all consistent.

Step 3: Remove the Backing

• Gently bend the sheet back and forth to loosen the image from the backing.
• If it’s sticking, pop it in the freezer for about 30 seconds, then try again.
• Avoid touching the printed side so you don’t smudge it.

Step 4: Apply the Image

• Lay the image down starting from the centre, then smooth outward to push out air bubbles.
• Use a fondant smoother or a clean, dry finger to flatten any wrinkles.
• Cakes: Apply the top image first, then work down the sides.
• Cupcakes and cookies: A thin layer of piping gel or water helps it stick.

Step 5: Let It Set

• Leave the image for 15-20 minutes before adding other decorations.
• Don’t touch it too soon or it can smudge or shift.
• If you’re decorating on top, keep it light, like sprinkles or small fondant details.

A Few More Tips

• Use a white or light-coloured base. Colours look brighter and truer.
• Keep your hands dry. Wet or oily fingers will smudge the print.
• Need to reposition it? Lift gently with a dry brush or toothpick, straight away.
• Don’t refrigerate decorated items. Condensation can make the image run.
• Store unused sheets sealed in their original bag. See how to store edible images.

The Short Version

• Prepare a smooth, very slightly damp surface.
• Cut with the backing on, then freeze briefly if the backing sticks.
• Lay it from the centre out and smooth away bubbles.
• Leave it 15-20 minutes before decorating further.

Looking for designs? Browse our edible images.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won’t my edible image come off the backing?

The sheet has usually absorbed a little moisture. Put it in the freezer for about 30 seconds, then gently bend the sheet and peel it away.

Can I put an edible image straight onto a cookie?

It works best on a smooth layer of fondant or royal icing. A bare cookie surface is too uneven and dry for the image to sit flat.

Why did my edible image go blurry?

Too much moisture. Use only a very thin layer of water, edible glue or piping gel under the image.

Related reads: How to Store Edible Images · Essential Tips for Working with Fondant