With a mission to become a household name, Icing Smiles is thrilled to announce the launch of its new, exciting website, marking a significant milestone in our journey towards greater awareness and impact.

Every smile counts and every cake brings joy. Icing Smiles has been a shining beacon for over 14 years. Founded by Tracy Quisenberry, our organization has tirelessly served medically ill children and their siblings, spreading happiness one cake at a time. In today’s digital age, a nonprofit’s online presence is more crucial than ever. A strong website serves as the face of the organization, conveying its mission, values, and impact to the world. With a mission to become a household name, Icing Smiles is thrilled to announce the launch of its new, exciting website, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards greater awareness and impact.

The website refresh couldn’t have come at a better time. As Chelsea Boog, Marketing Manager, puts it,

This sentiment echoes the organization’s commitment to expanding its reach and making a lasting impression on communities nationwide. The revamped website is not just a cosmetic makeover; it’s a reflection of the growth, dedication, and innovation that define Icing Smiles.

Partnering for Progress: The Collaboration with Pixel Lighthouse

Behind every successful website redesign lies a dedicated team of experts. Icing Smiles found their perfect match in Pixel Lighthouse, a nonprofit website agency fueled by a passion for helping organizations thrive online. Together, they’ve embarked on a transformative journey to create a website that not only reflects the heart and soul of Icing Smiles but also paves the way for future growth and success. Andrea Hattox, Creative Lead, shares;

Reflecting on Growth: Tracy Quisenberry’s Vision

Tracy Quisenberry expresses her excitement, stating,

Indeed, in 14 years, Icing Smiles has delivered over 30,500 cakes and 6,600 dozen cookies, touching the lives of families in all 50 states. The Icing Smiles team has grown to a network of over 13,000 volunteers. The new website reflects this remarkable journey and sets the stage for even greater accomplishments in the future.

Bridging the Gap: Amanda Grinnell’s Optimism

Amanda Grinnell, Development Manager, sees the website launch as more than just a milestone—it’s a gateway to the future. By making resources readily available, the stronger online presence of Icing Smiles fosters a sense of community and connection. Amanda shares her enthusiasm for the launch.

The Impact for Families and Bakers: Lauren Smith’s Perspective

Lauren Smith, Operations Manager, finds immense value in the new site, which empowers families and bakers to effortlessly navigate and explore all that Icing Smiles has to offer. As new visitors arrive, they’ll seamlessly discover the heart of Icing Smiles’ mission, understanding the profound impact we make in the lives of medically ill children and their siblings. Moreover, they can easily navigate to apply for a cake or sign up to become a Sugar Angel, contributing their baking talents to our cause. Lauren shares,

A Testament to Excellence: Cindy Johnson’s Dedication

Cindy Johnson, Technology Manager, reflects on the evolution of Icing Smiles’ online presence.

With meticulous attention to detail, the Technology Team has ensured that the new website is a seamless experience for all visitors, brimming with excellence in every aspect.

Embracing the Sweetness: Inviting Visitors to Explore

As visitors explore the new Icing Smiles website, they’ll be greeted with a vibrant, user-friendly interface that reflects the organization’s spirit of joy and inclusivity. From heartwarming success stories to easy-to-navigate resources for bakers and families, every aspect of the website is designed to inspire, inform, and engage.

So, whether you’re a volunteer eager to make a difference, a family in need of a little sweetness, or simply someone looking to support a worthy cause, the new Icing Smiles website invites you to be a part of something truly special. Join us as we continue to spread smiles, one cake at a time, and illuminate the lives of those who need it most.

Icing Smiles Website Launch Contest

We’re thrilled to unveil our brand new website, designed to spread even more joy through the power of cake! To celebrate, we’re hosting a fun and interactive contest just for you.

How to Participate:

1. Explore: Visit our new website at www.icingsmiles.org and navigate through its pages.
2. Hunt for Keywords: Keep your eyes peeled for four specific keywords hidden across different pages of the website. These keywords will come together to form a special phrase.
3. Compose the Sentence: Once you’ve discovered all four keywords, put them together in the correct order to form the complete phrase.
4. Submit Your Entry: Fill out the contest form on our website for your chance to win!

What You Could Win:

Icing Smiles Swag Pack filled with Icing Smiles gear!

Contest Deadline:

Make sure to submit your entry before May 31, 2024 to be entered into the drawing.

Get ready to embark on a sweet adventure through our new website and uncover the hidden gems within! Best of luck and thank you for being a part of spreading smiles with Icing Smiles!

Contest HINTS:

• What makes cakes so important?
• These Super Star Sponsors deserve the spotlight and lots of thanks for making our program possible
• Fundraising or Friendraising – important parts of our mission and a great way to get involved
• The Angels of our Program

Icing Smiles achieved a huge milestone, delivering our 30,000th cake! Join us on the journey of serving Maia, a spirited one year old battling Stuve-Wiedemann Syndrome

In the world of cake decorating and charitable endeavors, Icing Smiles stands out. Recently, we hit an incredible milestone, delivering our 30,000th cake to families in need. But behind this impressive number lies a heartwarming story that exemplifies the power of compassion and the joy that a simple cake can bring to face adversity.

Maia’s Journey

Meet Maia, a spirited one year old, who despite the challenges life threw at her, embodies resilience and strength. Born with Stuve-Wiedemann Syndrome (STWS) that presented unique medical complexities, Maia found herself under the care of Sarah, a compassionate nurse at Siani Hospital.

Months passed with Maia living in the hospital, her health becoming a daily concern for the medical staff. Among those deeply affected by Maia’s situation were Sarah and her husband, Josh. The couple felt a calling to do more for this special little girl.

The Decision to Foster

Driven by compassion and an overwhelming desire to make a difference in Maia’s life, Sarah and Josh decided to open their hearts and home to her. They became Maia’s foster parents, providing her not only with medical care but also with the love and stability she needed.

Maia’s First Birthday

The most significant milestone in Maia’s journey has been her first birthday. Celebrating this occasion was more than just a party; it symbolized the triumph of life and love over adversity. Most children with Maia’s diagnosis pass before reaching this milestone. Josh shared, “I don’t know how long this baby’s going to live. Everyone’s telling us she’s not going to make it. It could be tomorrow; it could be 20 years from now. We don’t know, but we want to give her the best life that we can.” Maia’s resilience has shone through, and her joy has become a testament to the transformative power of care and compassion.

Sherrie’s Sweets and the Mermaid Cake

To make Maia’s first birthday truly special, Sherrie of Sherrie’s Sweets, an Icing Smiles volunteer baker, stepped in. Known for her talent and generosity, Sherrie crafted a stunning ombre mermaid themed cake, not just as a centerpiece for the celebration but as a symbol of hope and happiness.

Sherrie experimented with new skills and dyed rice paper to create an underwater effect and she created fondant embellishments to top off the beautiful ombre buttercream. All of this was complete with the perfect “Maia” nameplate.

Icing Smiles’ 30,000 Cakes

Icing Smiles is honored to serve Maia as our 30,000th cake! Maia’s story is just one among the 30,000 heartwarming tales of love and generosity that Icing Smiles has contributed to. As an organization, we have been delivering custom cakes to families around the country with critically ill children – bringing joy and creating lasting memories.

Watch the Full Story

To experience the full depth of Maia’s incredible journey and the impact of Icing Smiles, we invite you to watch the touching YouTube video interview with Sarah, Josh, and Sherrie. Prepare to be inspired and moved by the transformative power of love, compassion, and a simple slice of sweetness.

Icing Smiles’ remarkable achievement of 30,000 cakes is not just a number; it represents the countless smiles, the immeasurable joy, and the boundless hope that has been brought to families faced with critical illness of a child. Maia’s journey from a hospital bed to a loving home is a poignant reminder of the impact that small acts of kindness, like a beautifully crafted cake, can have on someone’s life. Join us in celebrating Icing Smiles’ sweet success and the extraordinary stories of resilience and compassion that continue to unfold.

Also known as chocolate clay or candy clay, modeling chocolate is a versatile and pliable medium used in cake decorating and confectionery arts. It combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the malleability of clay, allowing you to shape it into intricate designs, figures, or cake toppers. Compared to fondant or Krispie treats, modeling chocolate offers a smoother texture and a more delicious taste.

When a Sugar Angel asked for help in finding the perfect modeling chocolate recipe and tips, the baking community rallied together with enthusiasm and expertise. Bakers shared their tried-and-true modeling chocolate recipes and tips that had been honed over countless hours of experimentation.

Let’s delve into the delightful world of modeling chocolate and discover the invaluable recipes and tips that were generously shared.

Modeling Chocolate Recipe

Many Sugar Angels turn to Sugar Geek Recipes for Elizabeth Marek’s fool-proof modeling chocolate.

Ingredients

Modeling Chocolate 

6 ounces corn syrup

16 ounces chocolate (any kind)

White Modeling Chocolate 

16 ounces white candy melts

4 ounces corn syrup (or glucose), warmed for a few seconds until about body temperature

Few drops gel food coloring, if you plan on coloring

Instructions

Melt candy melts in a plastic or microwave-safe bowl in the microwave or stove-top saucepan.

Warm corn syrup and add food coloring if using. Remember that your final product will be lighter than the color of your corn syrup. You can also add color later if you want.

Fold mixture together with a spatula until mixture starts to seize and resembles soft serve ice cream.

It is important to not overmix or your modeling chocolate will get oily.

Wrap in plastic and let set until chocolate is firm but still pliable. Usually a couple of hours depending on how hot it is in your room.

Unwrap chocolate and knead until smooth, smashing any hard lumps with your fingers.

Rewrap chocolate and place back in plastic wrap to set up until hard.

5 Modeling Chocolate Tips from the Bakers

1. Controlling Temperature

Your chocolate will be hard every time you go to use it. You will need to reheat it a few seconds (5-15 depending on your microwave) before each use. Do not overheat it, or it will get too soft and you’ll have to wait for it to harden up again before you can use it.

2. Dusting with Confidence

Dust your hands, work surface, and tools lightly with cornstarch or powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Start with a small amount, and add more as needed. Excess dusting can affect the taste and smoothness of the finished product.

3. Adding Colors

When coloring modeling chocolate, use gel or powdered food coloring instead of liquid ones, as liquid colors can cause the chocolate to seize. Add the coloring gradually while kneading the chocolate until the desired shade is achieved.

4. Repairing Cracks

If cracks appear while working with modeling chocolate, gently blend the edges with your fingertips or use a small amount of melted chocolate as “glue.” Applying a thin layer of shortening or corn syrup can help smooth out any imperfections.

5. Customizing Firmness

Adjust the firmness of your modeling chocolate based on your project’s requirements. For delicate flowers and intricate details, use a softer consistency by adding a bit more corn syrup to the mixture. On the other hand, if you need more structural stability for larger sculptures or cake toppers, reduce the amount of corn syrup or add some powdered sugar during kneading to achieve a firmer texture.

The generosity and passion of the baking community have once again shone brightly as bakers shared their cherished modeling chocolate recipes and invaluable tips. With these tried-and-true techniques in your baking arsenal, you can confidently embark on the journey of creating stunning and delectable masterpieces using modeling chocolate. Embrace the knowledge and let your imagination soar as you shape and mold this versatile medium into edible works of art. 

Join Our Mailing List

If you want more tips, updates, and stories from Icing Smiles, sign up to receive periodic updates from the team. You can choose to receive the newsletters we send out every other month or to be notified when a new blog posts. We think you’ll enjoy reading about the smiles we help to create. These stories inspire us. They motivate us. And they are the reasons we are here. 

“Babies!”

Miles was so excited to be a big brother. He was going to have a baby sister, and she was going to be born right around his birthday! But she came two weeks early and needed to be in the NICU with complications and was eventually diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. 

This incurable inherited disorder causes damage to the lungs and other organs of the body. It can also negatively affect the digestive system. Miles’ new baby sister needed a procedure known as an ostomy to help clear waste from her body at only a few days old.

“Mama Mia!”

His birthday came and went without a party, without his mother who needed to be in the hospital with baby sister Eden, and without the smiles of celebration. In the words of Miles’ mother Haley, “I was not able to be there with Miles on his birthday, and it broke my heart.”

The year that followed was filled with doctor visits and difficulties. Miles tried to be a good big brother to little sister Eden, even though she needed most of the time and energy of their mother. 

“Mario Time!”

Haley was determined to make Miles’ fourth birthday extra special. She was so grateful for a special cake for her son on his birthday.

He has had a rough year, and it makes me so happy we were able to have a day focused on him with this extra special cake.

The fun Mario cake brought smiles to Miles and his family. You would never guess that this joyful Mario look-a-like had a hard year. With such a special cake donated by an amazing baker, this family was able to spend the day focused on a wonderful boy. It was “Miles Time!”

Give a Smile

Each cake we serve is more than just a cake — it’s a chance to make a magical memory. Help us create a smile.

In the world of baking, cakes are not just desserts; they are masterpieces that bring joy and celebration to our lives. 

Our Sugar Angels are true artists. Armed with their mixing bowls, spatulas, and an unwavering passion for their craft, they possess the remarkable ability to transform the ordinary into extraordinary. From everyday objects to fantastical landscapes, Sugar Angels can turn virtually anything into a delectable masterpiece that tantalizes both the taste buds and the imagination. 

Whether they are professionals or passionate hobbyists, creative bakers rely on trusted products to bring their visions to life. When it comes to fondant, edible paint, and modeling chocolate, one company that stands out as a go-to choice is Satin Ice. 

Since 2011, Satin Ice has been an invaluable partner in Icing Smiles’ mission: The Icing Smiles logo is displayed prominently on Satin Ice fondant. The company has supported Icing Smiles over the years with cash and product donations. And its marketing director, Paul McVeigh, is Icing Smiles’ board secretary. 

“I am honored our customers see Satin Fine Foods as a visible partner,” Paul says. “Icing Smiles is a pillar of our company, and we couldn’t be prouder to be associated. On a personal note, I have three young kids of my own. I can’t begin to imagine the pain these families must be going through.”

Satin Ice’s fondant serves as the canvas upon which many of these artists work their magic, allowing them to sculpt intricate shapes, achieve vibrant colors, and bring the most imaginative cake designs to life.

Sugar Angel Charmagne Pearson says she likes the quality and the “new” taste of Satin Ice fondant products. “In my area, I have limited availability of cake-decorating items, and I would need to add candy flavoring to Satin Ice pre-rolled fondant to mask the Play-Doh taste,” she says. “But a few years ago, they changed the formula. It now has a nice marshmallow taste and texture. It is consistent, and I know how it will behave.”

Sugar Angel Sandra Griggs Smiley says she uses the fondant for the dark, rich colors, including metallic gold, and Sugar Angel Mike Elder says Satin Ice is all he’s ever used. 

Sugar Angel Kerri Weitzel adds: “If I have to cover a cake in fondant, I have always used Satin Ice because I can count on the quality of it creating a nice even non- tearing, clean, crisp-colored look. I also love it for use when I am doing sculpture work with a little addition of Tylose powder.”

In this blog post, we’re showcasing some of the incredible creations that have been brought to life using Satin Ice.

Sugar Angel Kristin Lynn made this Ms. Rachel cake using Satin Ice fondant for her third call to action.

Sugar Angel Victoria Andreacchio created a 17-inch Pokemon cake. For the ears, she used Satin Ice modeling chocolate. A Sugar Angle since 2014, Victoria’s first Icing Smiles cake was for a girl’s first birthday party — and the cake was bigger than she was!

Sugar Angel Laurie Romano hasn’t received a call to action in six years. She claims she’s “rusty” with fondant work, but her Fortnite cake, made using Satin Ice fondant, proves otherwise.

Victoria was at it again. This time, she used Satin Ice fondant for a Watch Dogs cake.

Sugar Angel Garima Rawat made cookies for the Cookie Club. She used Satin Ice modeling chocolate for the blue-sweater cookies.

Sugar Angel Sandra Griggs Smiley likes Satin Ice fondant for the dark, rich colors, including metallic gold.

Become a Sugar Angel

Satin Ice has played a vital role in empowering talented Sugar Angels to bring their creative visions to life with its premium fondant and modeling chocolate. From intricately designed Dream Cakes to whimsical character sculptures and even exquisitely decorated cookies, the possibilities are limitless. Satin Ice continues to be a trusted companion, providing the perfect canvas for Sugar Angels to showcase their skills and bring smiles to faces around the world.

If you have a genuine love for baking and a desire to use your skills to bring smiles to the faces of children facing difficult circumstances, then you have the foundation to become a Sugar Angel, too. 

Celebrating special occasions with cake is a cherished tradition that brings joy and happiness to many. However, for kiddos who are unable to eat cake due to dietary restrictions or medical reasons, it can be disheartening to miss out on this delightful treat. 

But fear not! Our Sugar Angels are a creative and resourceful bunch. There are numerous exciting ways to still receive a smile, even if your child can’t indulge in a traditional cake. 

“Maybe your child can’t eat the cake, but you can,” says Icing Smiles Founder Tracy Quisenberry. “You can still celebrate. You can still make it a big day for your child. The smell, the design — that’s the smile.” 

In this blog post, we’ll explore five alternatives that will make any celebration memorable and special.

1. Smash Cake

Sweet Junction made this smash cake for Xander. Photo by Amanda Danzilo Photography.

A smash cake is a small cake that is specifically designed and prepared for a child’s first birthday celebration. It is called a “smash” cake because the tradition involves the child being encouraged to dig into the cake with their hands, smashing it and making a mess. While your child may not be able to eat the cake, the sheer delight of smashing into it can still create an unforgettable moment. 

Smash cakes are typically smaller in size compared to a regular cake, often a single-layered cake that is just enough for the child to enjoy and make a mess with. Sugar Angel Ashley Knott Jean says she always creates a Dream Cake and a matching smash cake for first birthdays. “It’s a tradition I grew up with, and I consider it my duty to make sure every child within my realm of influence gets one,” she says.

2. Smell Cake

One of the most evocative aspects of cake is its tantalizing aroma. Even if your kiddo can’t enjoy a slice, they can still experience the joy of smelling a freshly baked cake. 

The idea behind a smell cake is to capture the sensory experience associated with cake. This concept is particularly relevant for children who are unable to consume cake due to dietary restrictions or other reasons but still want to enjoy the olfactory pleasure associated with baking.

Sugar Angels bake a cake that is visually appealing and aromatic, focusing on fragrant flavors that release a pleasant fragrance when baked, such as vanilla, chocolate, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even citrus zest. The delightful smell will fill the room and create an atmosphere that brings everyone together, ensuring a smile on everyone’s face.

A smell cake can still be decorated and presented in an appealing manner, much like a traditional cake, but the emphasis is primarily on the olfactory experience rather than the actual consumption of the cake itself. It provides a unique way to enjoy the sensory pleasure associated with cake baking and can be a thoughtful option for those who are unable to partake in eating cake but still want to be a part of the celebration.

3. Candle Cake

Sugar Angel Kristin Miller made a separate candle cake to go with the party cake so the recipient could blow out his candles safely.

The act of blowing out candles is a classic element of birthday celebrations. Even without eating cake, the presence of a beautifully decorated candle cake can add a touch of magic and joy to the occasion. 

Candle cakes are also great options for families worried about spreading germs. Sugar Angel Kristin Miller made a separate candle cake to go with the party cake so the recipient could blow out his candles safely. Sugar Angel Jean Plotkin designed a cake so the top part came off, and that’s what her daughter used for blowing out candles.

A candle cake is a simple yet powerful way to embrace the spirit of celebration and bring smiles to all.

4. Allergy-friendly Cake

Although not every Sugar Angel can accommodate dietary restrictions, Icing Smiles does work hard to find a baker who can make accommodations when the child receiving the cake has a dietary need. 

Sugar Angel Chrissy Jensen has a dedicated gluten-free, peanut-free, and tree-nut-free facility and recently delivered her first CTA — a cake based on the book Inky the Octopus. Sugar Angel Mary Borsuk Dalaba recently made a ​​dairy-free and soy-free cake, and Sugar Angel Pamela Evans made a Fun Cake without using artificial dyes or coloring.

5. Keto Cake

Sugar Angel Angela Longo Klonoski recently made a Dream Cake along with a second smaller cake for the birthday young man because he is on a keto diet.

For kids following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, a traditional cake may not be an option. However, there are a variety of keto-friendly cake recipes available that can be customized to suit their dietary needs. Whether it’s a decadent chocolate keto cake or a moist almond flour-based creation, these alternatives allow your family to enjoy a delicious dessert while staying true to your health goals. 

Sugar Angel Angela Longo Klonoski recently made a Dream Cake along with a second smaller cake for the birthday young man because he is on a keto diet. With the right recipe, you can still indulge in a slice of cake that aligns with your dietary requirements and receive a smile on your special day.

Although not being able to eat cake may feel like a limitation, it doesn’t mean your kiddo and family can’t celebrate and receive smiles on special occasions. From smash cakes to smell cakes, keto options to candle cakes, there are countless ways to make your celebrations memorable and joyous. The true essence of a celebration lies in the love, happiness, and togetherness it brings.

Apply for a Cake

We believe that something as simple as a cake can have a huge impact, not only on the kids and their families but also on their neighbors, doctors, nurses, and beyond. Each cake we serve is more than just a cake — these baked treats are a chance to smile, celebrate, feel normal, and temporarily escape from worry.

If your medically qualified child or their sibling would like a chance to make a magical memory, request a cake today.