Storing Wedding Cakes: Tips For Preservation And Display

Wedding cakes are often stored for use at a later date, whether that be for the couple's first anniversary or the christening of their first child. There are many different ways to store a wedding cake, depending on the type of cake and icing used. Sponge cakes, for example, should be stored at room temperature, while cakes with fresh cream should be kept in the fridge.

Sponge wedding cakes should not be kept in the fridge

Storing a wedding cake properly is essential to ensure it stays fresh for the big day. Sponge wedding cakes, in particular, require special attention when it comes to storage. One of the biggest no-nos for sponge wedding cakes is keeping them in the fridge.

Firstly, sponge cakes are highly susceptible to moisture loss. Refrigeration accelerates the drying out of sponge cakes by drawing out their moisture. Even if the cake is wrapped tightly, the cold, dry air of the fridge will sap its moisture, leaving it dry and crumbly. The airy texture that makes sponge cakes so delightful is compromised, resulting in a dense, dry cake that has lost its fluffy nature.

Secondly, cold temperatures can dull the flavours of a sponge cake. Ingredients like vanilla, citrus, or chocolate are best enjoyed at room temperature, where their aromas can fully develop. Storing a sponge wedding cake in the fridge not only affects its texture but also diminishes its taste. The cake's original burst of flavour can fade, resulting in a muted and lacklustre experience.

The exception to this rule is if the sponge cake includes perishable ingredients such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, custard, or fresh cream. In these cases, refrigeration is necessary to prevent spoilage. However, even then, it is recommended to keep the cake well-wrapped to minimise moisture loss. Additionally, if you live in a hot and humid climate, a brief stint in the fridge can prevent the cake from melting. But it should be allowed to return to room temperature before serving to regain its optimal texture and flavour.

So, if you're planning to store a sponge wedding cake, avoid the fridge and opt for a cosy spot away from direct sunlight. If the cake is for a special occasion, it is best to keep it in its original packaging until just before it needs to be presented.

How to store buttercream sponge cakes

Sponge cakes with buttercream are best stored in a cosy spot, but not in direct sunlight, if you are eating them within a few days of receiving them. If you are saving the cakes for a few days before a special occasion, it is best to keep them in their original packaging until they need to be presented.

If you are storing a whole sponge cake with buttercream, it is best to keep it in an airtight container. If the cake is already cut, you can pop the wedges into individual airtight containers to keep them as fresh as possible and prevent them from drying out.

If you want to store a buttercream sponge cake for longer than three days, it is best to freeze it. To do this, wrap the cake in two layers of cling film and then in tin foil. Ensure that the cake is thoroughly covered from top to bottom and on all sides. The wrapping should be absolutely airtight so that there is no taste of freezer burn in the cake. Place the cake in a clean freezer drawer until it has fully hardened.

When you are ready to eat your frozen cake, take it out of the freezer and leave it in a nice cosy spot (out of direct sunlight) until the cake comes up to room temperature. You'll know when it's ready to eat as the buttercream will be soft to touch.

How to keep a cut wedding cake fresh

If you want to keep your cut wedding cake fresh, there are several steps you can take to ensure it stays edible. Firstly, it is important to note that cakes with perishable ingredients such as milk or cream in the filling may only be safe to consume for a few hours after being left at room temperature. If you are concerned about food safety, it is best to seek advice from a professional or a food safety course.

Assuming your cake does not contain perishable ingredients, it is best to keep buttercream sponge cakes at room temperature in a cosy spot, but not in direct sunlight if you plan to eat them within a few days. If you are saving the cake for a longer period, it is best to keep it in its original packaging until it is ready to be presented.

Once the cake has been cut, you can keep it fresh by placing it in an airtight container. If the cake has already been cut into slices, place each slice into an individual airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to store your wedding cake for a longer period, you can freeze it. It is best to do this as soon as possible after the wedding to ensure freshness. First, remove any ornamental decorations and floral adornments from the cake. Then, wrap the cake tightly in at least two layers of plastic wrap, ensuring that there are no air bubbles. Next, wrap the cake in aluminium foil and place it in the freezer, ideally at the back to maintain a consistent temperature.

When you are ready to eat the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and leave it in a cool spot until it reaches room temperature. The cake is ready to eat when the buttercream is soft to touch.

How to freeze a wedding cake

Freezing a wedding cake is a great way to preserve the top tier for a future celebration, such as a first anniversary or a christening. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to freeze a wedding cake:

Before Freezing:

Before freezing the cake, it is important to prepare it properly to ensure optimal taste and texture. Firstly, remove any large decorations, such as ribbon, cake toppers, and sugar flowers. Smaller decorations made from icing can usually be left on. If the cake is on a cardboard base that is not foil-wrapped, transfer it to a foil-covered cardboard or a plastic plate to prevent any cardboard smell or taste from affecting the cake.

Wrapping and Storing:

The next step is to wrap the cake securely. Place the cake in the freezer for about an hour to harden the icing, which will prevent it from sticking to the wrapping. Then, remove the cake from the freezer and wrap it in two layers of plastic wrap or cling film, ensuring that it is tightly wrapped. Do not use aluminium foil, as it can cause freezer burn. Once the cake is wrapped, place it in a freezer-safe airtight container or box and store it in the freezer. If using a box, wrap the box in several layers of plastic wrap for added protection.

Defrosting:

When you are ready to enjoy the cake, remove it from the freezer and take off the wrapping. Then, place the cake in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours to defrost. Finally, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Tips for a Successful Freeze:

It is important to note that freezing a cake for a long period may affect its taste and texture. To minimise changes, choose a heartier cake, such as chocolate, carrot, hazelnut, or almond. Additionally, consider removing a slice of the cake before freezing and label the frozen cake so you don't forget about it!

Alternative Methods:

Some people prefer to slice the cake and freeze individual portions. This method can be useful if you are lacking freezer space. Simply wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

By following these steps, you can successfully freeze your wedding cake and enjoy a sweet reminder of your special day in the future!

How to defrost a frozen wedding cake

Defrosting a frozen wedding cake is a delicate process. Here is a detailed guide on how to safely defrost your cake:

Remove from the Freezer:

Take the cake out of the freezer and remove any aluminium foil or plastic wrap. Keep the cake covered with plastic wrap.

Thaw in the Fridge:

Place the wrapped cake in the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly. This step is crucial for cakes with fondant or intricate icing, as it helps prevent condensation from forming and leaving permanent marks on the icing. Leave the cake in the fridge for at least a couple of hours, or until it's almost completely defrosted.

Bring to Room Temperature:

Once the cake is almost thawed, take it out of the fridge and place it in a cosy spot at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can affect the cake's texture and cause the icing to melt.

Check the Buttercream:

The cake is ready to be served when the buttercream is soft to the touch. The centre of the cake will take the longest to defrost, so check the buttercream in the middle. If it feels soft, your cake is ready to be enjoyed!

By following these steps, you can ensure that your frozen wedding cake thaws properly and retains its texture and flavour. It is important to be patient during the defrosting process to avoid any condensation or melting issues. Enjoy your delicious wedding cake!

Frequently asked questions