Carvel Wedding Cakes: A Dream Come True?

Carvel, the ice cream and cake shop, offers a wide range of ice cream cakes for various occasions, including weddings. While Carvel doesn't specifically market wedding cakes, some of their stores make them, and they can be customised to suit the happy couple's preferences. Carvel cakes are known to be a unique and memorable addition to wedding celebrations, offering a fun alternative to traditional wedding cakes.

Ice cream cake serving suggestions

Ice cream cakes are a fun and unique way to celebrate any occasion. Here are some tips to ensure your ice cream cake is served and enjoyed by all.

Before the Event:

Firstly, ensure you have adequate freezer space to store your ice cream cake. If your event is outdoors, you may need to source a freezer or ice to keep your cake from melting.

If you are making your own ice cream cake, give yourself plenty of time. These cakes require freezing between each step, so it is best to make them the day before your event.

If you are ordering an ice cream cake, do so in advance and pick it up as close to your event as possible. Transport your cake in a cooler or another insulated container to prevent melting.

During the Event:

Take the cake out of the freezer 15-30 minutes before serving. This will ensure it is the perfect temperature and consistency. Keep the cake out of direct sunlight and other heat sources to prevent melting.

Use a long, serrated knife to cut clean slices. Warm the knife in hot water and dry it off before cutting. Re-dip the knife in warm water after every few slices for the best results.

Serving Suggestions:

Ice cream cakes can be served on plates or in bowls, depending on the consistency of the cake and the temperature of the room. If it is a hot day, consider serving your cake in bowls with spoons to prevent a mess.

For a more elegant affair, consider serving your ice cream cake with a fruit coulis or fresh berries. This will add a touch of freshness and colour to your dessert.

If you are serving a large ice cream cake, consider having some fun, themed toppings for your guests to add to their slices. Some ideas include sprinkles, crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit.

For a more interactive experience, create an ice cream sundae bar with your ice cream cake as the star attraction. Provide various toppings and sauces for your guests to create their own unique dessert.

Finally, don't forget to enjoy your delicious ice cream cake! These treats are perfect for any celebration and are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

Carvel wedding cake reviews

Carvel wedding cakes are a unique and memorable option for couples looking for something different. Carvel offers a range of ice cream cakes that can be customised and personalised to suit the happy couple's preferences.

Reviews for Carvel wedding cakes are overwhelmingly positive, with many couples expressing delight at being able to have an ice cream cake for their wedding. One couple even said it was the "best decision ever" and that their cake was "gorgeous and yummy". Another couple opted for a Carvel groom's cake, featuring a baseball field and a large softball, which was a "delicious" surprise for the groom.

The flexibility and responsiveness of Carvel staff also received high praise, with several reviewers mentioning Jared at Carvel in Syosset, New York, by name. Jared is described as "super easy to work with" and "very responsive", accommodating a range of customisation requests, from gluten-free cakes to unique designs. One reviewer noted that Jared went "above and beyond" to ensure their cake was perfect, even recognising that the on-site freezer wasn't working and taking the cake back to his shop before delivering it again in time for the cake-cutting ceremony.

The taste of Carvel wedding cakes is, of course, a key factor, and reviewers did not disappoint on this front. One person said their cake was "absolutely delicious", while another claimed it was the "best wedding cake" they had ever had. The signature Carvel crunchies were a particular hit, with one reviewer stating that they were the "most delicious part" of the cake.

The only potential downside mentioned in the reviews is the possibility of the ice cream melting. One person suggested serving the cake in bowls to avoid any mess, while another recommended having a limited quantity of cake and supplementing it with cupcakes. However, this concern did not seem to deter anyone from choosing a Carvel cake, with many reviewers stating that it was a unique and fun choice that their guests loved.

Customisation options

Carvel offers a wide range of customisation options for wedding cakes, ensuring that your special day is memorable and unique. Here are some of the ways you can personalise your Carvel wedding cake:

Cake Flavours and Fillings

Carvel's ice cream cakes offer a variety of flavours and fillings to choose from. You can select from their range of ice cream flavours, including vanilla, chocolate, chocolate chip cookie dough, salted caramel with crumbled pretzels, mint chocolate chip, and more. They also offer different filling options, such as the famous chocolate crunchies, fudge, sprinkles, or even substitute the crunchies with fudge or sprinkles for a gluten-free option.

Cake Design and Decorations

Carvel allows you to customise the design and decorations of your wedding cake. You can choose from a simple yet elegant traditional Carvel cake design with white icing and lines, or opt for a more elaborate, modern look. They can create tiered cakes, from two to four tiers, with the option of having fake tiers made of styrofoam to give the impression of a larger cake. You can also choose the colour of the icing, add edible images, and include decorations such as sugar flowers, piped trim, or a monogram design.

Cake Size and Serving Options

Carvel wedding cakes can be customised to suit your guest list. They offer different sizes, ranging from individual mini cakes for each guest to larger sheet cakes that serve up to 150 people. You can also choose to have a combination of cake sizes, such as a small cake for the ceremonial cake-cutting and sheet cakes for serving your guests.

Special Requests and Themes

Carvel is accommodating of special requests and themed weddings. They have created surprise groom cakes, baseball-themed cakes, and even a Yankees groom cake. You can bring in your own design or a picture from Pinterest, and they will work with you to replicate it.

Dietary Restrictions

Carvel also offers customisation options for dietary restrictions. They can make gluten-free cakes by substituting the chocolate crunchies with fudge or sprinkles. Additionally, their non-dairy and dairy-free options ensure that everyone can enjoy the cake.

With these customisation options, Carvel can create a wedding cake that reflects your personal style and tastes, making your big day even more special and memorable.

Ice cream cake storage

Ice cream cakes are a unique and fun alternative to traditional wedding cakes and can be a great way to surprise your guests. However, storing an ice cream cake requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure it remains in optimal condition. Here are some essential tips for ice cream cake storage:

Choosing the Right Venue

When planning to serve an ice cream cake at your wedding, it is crucial to select a venue that can accommodate your unique dessert choice. Ensure the venue has adequate freezer space to store the cake until it is served. Communicate your needs with the venue staff and coordinate with your cake provider to ensure a smooth delivery and storage process.

Maintaining Optimal Freezer Temperature

To preserve the quality of your ice cream cake, it is essential to store it at the correct temperature. The ideal freezer temperature for ice cream cakes is 0°F (-18°C) or below. This temperature range helps prevent the formation of large ice crystals and ensures the cake part doesn't become too hard. Maintaining a consistent freezer temperature is crucial, as fluctuations can lead to melting and refreezing, compromising the cake's structure.

Proper Wrapping and Packaging

When storing an ice cream cake, it is crucial to protect it from the harsh freezer environment. Start by wrapping the cake tightly in plastic wrap to prevent air from getting in. Then, for added protection, wrap it again in aluminum foil. If possible, place the double-wrapped cake in an airtight container to shield it from freezer odors and prevent the absorption of unwanted tastes.

Placement in the Freezer

The placement of your ice cream cake in the freezer is just as important as how you wrap it. Store the cake in the back of the freezer where the temperature is most consistent, avoiding the freezer door, which is more susceptible to temperature fluctuations. Ensure the cake is placed on a flat surface, and avoid stacking items on top of it to prevent deformation. Keep the cake away from foods with strong odors to prevent flavor transfer.

Thawing and Serving

Proper thawing is essential for achieving the perfect balance of creamy and cakey textures when serving your ice cream cake. Approximately 30 minutes before serving, transfer the cake from the freezer to the refrigerator to allow it to soften slightly without melting. If you're short on time, you can leave the cake at room temperature for about 15 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent melting. Before serving, check the consistency to ensure it is soft enough to cut without melting.

Extending Shelf Life

To maximize the longevity of your ice cream cake, maintain an optimal freezer temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and consider using freezer-safe containers for added protection. Regularly defrost and clean your freezer to prevent frost buildup and ensure efficient cooling. Minimize the frequency of opening the freezer door, as warm air entering can cause temperature fluctuations that affect the cake's quality.

Repurposing Leftovers

If you have leftover ice cream cake, there are creative ways to repurpose it. You can blend pieces of the cake with milk to make rich milkshakes, crumble the cake portion and mix it with frosting to make ice cream cake pops, or scoop out the ice cream layers and use them as a base for sundaes. Always check for any signs of spoilage or excessive freezer burn before consuming leftovers.

Carvel wedding cake availability

Carvel does make wedding cakes, but their availability varies by location. Carvel cakes are handmade in-shoppe and can be personalized or customized to suit your needs. Most Carvel stores can have your special order ready within 48 hours, but it is recommended that you enjoy your Carvel ice cream cake within 7 days of purchase.

Carvel of Syosset in New York is a popular choice for wedding cakes, with many positive reviews. Jared, the owner, has been praised for his professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to create unique and delicious cakes. He has created a variety of wedding cakes, from mini individual cakes to three-tier cakes, and has accommodated customers with dietary restrictions.

If you are interested in a Carvel wedding cake, it is best to contact your local Carvel store to inquire about availability, sizes, styles, and prices.

Frequently asked questions