How to Put a Custom Photo on a Cake

If you're trying to figure out how to print a picture on a cake, you're in the right place. I used to make hundreds of these each year at my bakery—and now I’ll show you how easy it can be.

Back when I owned my cupcake shop in Topeka, Kansas, photo cakes were one of our most requested items—especially during graduation season. We printed hundreds of edible images every year, mostly on sheet cakes with school colors and a big smiling photo of the grad right on top. It was such a fun way to make each cake feel personal and extra special.

Why Print a Photo on a Cake?

Photo cakes are a fantastic way to celebrate a special occasion. Whether it’s a Happy Birthday, sports team party, adding a picture makes it extra personal. We printed everything from photographs of the birthday girl to team logos and graduation portraits.

What Are Edible Images?

Edible images are pictures printed on thin sheets called:

Icing sheets (also called frosting sheets or sugar sheets)
Wafer paper or rice paper (more common outside the U.S.)

These are made from potato starch, cornstarch, or other starch mixtures and melt slightly into the cake surface when applied.

They are printed using a dedicated printer with edible ink cartridges (never use regular ink cartridges!). This is called edible image printing, and it’s safe for food use.

How to Print a Picture on a Cake at Home

You can print your own edible photos if you want to decorate your own cakes. Here’s what you’ll need:

Equipment & Supplies

A dedicated edible image printer (usually a Canon inkjet printer)
Edible ink cartridges
Frosting sheets (I recommend Icinginks products or similar)
A clean work space (don’t use your regular printer for food!)

Steps to Print

Choose your image. Keep it high quality.
Use edible image printing software or upload to your printer’s default program.
Print onto the frosting sheet. Let it dry for 5–10 minutes.
Cut out the image using clean scissors or a craft blade.
Place it gently on the top of the cake.

To help it stick, brush the back with a thin layer of corn syrup or spray the cake with a fine mist of water. This prevents air bubbles and helps the edible paper melt slightly into the frosting.

Can You Order Edible Images Online?

Yes! If you don’t want to buy an edible image printer, you can order edible prints online.

Here are a few trusted sites:

Icing Images – custom sizes and quick shipping
EdibleSupply.com – great for sports teams, cartoon characters, or a personal message
Amazon – search for “custom edible photo cake topper”

Just upload your image and they’ll mail you a printed sheet. You can also check local grocery stores or bakery chains like Asda photo cakes (UK) for this service.

Where to Buy Edible Images and Supplies Online

Edible Ink Supply Vendors

Icing Images
Offers edible ink printers, cartridges, frosting sheets, and design tools. Great for beginners and pros alike.
Ink4Cake
Sells edible ink, wafer paper, sugar sheets, and full edible printing systems for home and bakery use..

Etsy Sellers Offering Edible Image Printing Services

MBeeStudioDesigns
Offers custom edible image cake toppers for cupcakes, cookies, and cakes.
SweetsandStuffNapa
Provides edible images in custom sizes for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
DMDesignAndBake
Specializes in printing your image on A4 wafer paper, wafer card, or icing paper for various edible applications.
SweetIcingImages
Creates custom edible images featuring your photo or logo, suitable for cupcakes and cakes.
EdiblePartyImages
Offers a variety of edible cake toppers and centerpieces to enhance your celebrations

Common Questions About Edible Photo Cakes

1. Can I use a sports team or cartoon image photo?
Images with logos may fall under trademark laws. It’s best to use personal photos or graphics made for edible printing purposes. The use of any trade name or product names need to be purchased from a licensed vendor.

2. What kind of cake works best?
We used white cake most often, but you can use any cake flavor. Just make sure the top is flat and smooth. Buttercream works better than whipped topping.

3. Can I use regular paper?
No. Regular paper and regular ink are not safe for food use. Only use edible sheets and edible ink cartridges.

4. Can I add a message?
Yes! Add a personal message with edible markers or on-screen text before you print.

5. Can I bring an image on a USB stick to a store?
Some bakeries will print it for you. Just call ahead and ask if they offer photo print cake services.

Tips for Best Results

Don’t freeze the image after placing it—it may crack.
Apply close to serving time if your cake is very moist.
Use a sheet cake or a flat cake topper area for best effect.
Test print on plain paper first if you're unsure about sizing.

How to Print a Picture on a Cake

Printing a photo on a cake is easier than it sounds—and it adds so much fun to the celebration. Whether you’re decorating your own cake or ordering a photo print cake online, edible photos are a fantastic way to make your celebration extra special.

Want more cake decorations and DIY tips? Or have a photo cake memory to share? Drop it in the comments below—I’d love to hear it!