A piping bag isnt something Id categorize as a normal kitchen tool.
Besides, that wont help if you need a piping bag at this very instant.
Instead, just reach for the next best thing: a zip-top storage bag.
What is a piping bag?
Like I mentioned, a piping bag is a conical bag.
They can be made from a piece of parchment paper, single-use plastic, orreusable coated cloth.
So you’re able to use any plastic bag that has a corner to mimic the shape.
If youre not using a piping tip
1.
Cuff the opening
Fold back the first inch or two of the opening of the zip-top bag.
That can make your grip slip, and of course, its just tidier this way.
Add your filling of choice
I usually have one of the two corners in mind.
Load the bag closer to that side so you dont have to push the filling around too much later.
Seal the top
Push out the air and twist the plastic above the filling.
The twisted plastic is what will keep the filling from creeping out the back.
Hold the twist with your dominant hand.
A tiny plastic triangle should come off.
Your piping bag is ready to use.
Note that you should be wary if your zip-top bag has a “foot.”
Meaning the bottom side is pleated to open up so the bag can stand up.
My freezer bag has this in the pictures above.
Fold the top inch or two of the plastic bag outward to cuff the bag.
This will keep any filling from getting on the outside of the bag.
Dont make it fit too snug, but take notice of where the opening design of the tip stops.
Youll make the cut there.
Use sharp scissors to snip the corner off at that spot.
Push the tip snuggly into the corner so you could see if the design is cut off or not.
If it is cut off, cut a sliver more from the opening.
Cut a little at a time.
If you cut too much, the piping tip will pop out.
Add your filling and twist the top of the bag shut.
Your piping bag is read to use.
When do you use a piping bag?
you could use your piping bag to decorate cookies and cakes with frosting.
Fill the bag with cookie dough and pipe out six dozen butter cookies.
Fill homemade doughnuts with jam.
Pipe out the filling for twice-baked potatoes or deviled eggs.
Fill dumpling skins with your famous pork mixture.
