While the traditional tiered wedding cake is a long-standing tradition, keeping that confectionary tower upright is no piece of cake!
Of course, this information comes from first-hand experience and some epic saves, but there are some tips to take care that your cake will make it through the entire reception, especially when it’s said that tiered wedding cakes are back for the 2023 season.
Anyone who has watched Cake Wars knows the nerve-wracking care of transporting and placing a multi-tiered cake. Your cake professional is truly a master at this and once it’s placed the onus is on you with the support of your vendor team to keep that cake standing.
Here are a few things to know when protecting your cake investment.
Buttercream versus Fondant
When it comes to taste, buttercream is a favorite, but you have to keep in mind the melt factor of buttercream frosting is similar to butter. Butter is best refrigerated until served.
In contrast, fondant should not be refrigerated. It does better at room temperature, but heat and humidity can cause fondant to condensate, so it’s better kept at an ambient temperature.
Jamie Lynn of Jamie Lynn’s Cakes and Cupcakes in southern Ohio recommends wedding cakes be set up in 70 degrees and not in direct sunlight. If being served outdoors or warmer temperature, she recommends not taking outdoors until ready to serve. It really is about watching those temperatures, especially on hot summer days.
How to prevent a cake mishap and serve it up like a pro
- Follow the directions of temperature given to you by your cake professional.
- Schedule your cake deliveries as close to your ceremony as possible
- If you’re going to have your cake presented or cut and served outdoors, be sure to have a sturdy table available as wedding cakes can be seriously heavy.
- If placed indoors, make sure your cake table is out of the line of heavy traffic, but in a focal spot where all can admire.
- The cake server is one of the most forgotten items on wedding day, which we at Weymouth Hill always have a spare on hand. Those who remember typically use an engraved family cake server adding a touch of sentiment to this ritual of the bride and groom cutting the cake.
- If saving the top tier, don’t forget to bring a cake box to take home if not provided by your cake professional. For best results, your cake will freeze better if all ornamental décor and floral are removed and the cake is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap.
- Move the cake as little as possible. If an early delivery is not avoidable, talk to your venue about a safe, cool place to store it.
- If, for whatever reason, your cake professional cannot deliver your cake and it must be a self pickup, make sure a flat place like a floorboard, or trunk is designated and the vehicle is extremely cool. Moving a multiple tier cake, typically takes at least two people to secure.
- Designate someone in your party to check in on your cake periodically setting a reminder on his or her phone, ensuring the room it is stored in is cool and the icing does not show evidence of melting.
- Finally, consider to go boxes if you think your cake could be oversized for your crowd or ask your venue if they are willing to donate your leftover cake. We at Weymouth Hill have put many smiles on faces by donating leftover wedding cake to area residents.
