Using Ribbon To Cut Your Wedding Cake

Cutting the wedding cake is a time-honoured tradition that is often the first task a couple does together during their wedding reception. It is a symbolic moment that represents the couple's partnership, teamwork, and ability to work together. The tradition dates back to ancient Rome, where a simple wheat or barley loaf was broken over the bride's head to bring good fortune to the couple and their guests. Today, the cake-cutting ceremony is a highly photographed moment and can be done gracefully and elegantly.

One key aspect to consider when cutting a wedding cake with ribbon is to ensure that the ribbon does not get stained by the cake or its icing. There are various methods to achieve this, including using clear tape, waxed paper, or oil to create a barrier between the ribbon and the cake. Another important tip is to use the appropriate tools, such as a sharp, serrated knife, to make clean and precise cuts without putting too much pressure on the cake.

By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your wedding cake-cutting ceremony goes smoothly and becomes a memorable part of your special day.

Attaching ribbon to a buttercream cake

Firstly, you need to have the right length of ribbon. To calculate the circumference of a round cake, you need to multiply the diameter of your cake by pi. For a square cake, multiply the side of the cake by four. For a rectangular cake, multiply the long side by two, then add that number to the multiplication of the cake's short side by two. It doesn’t matter if you measure your cakes in inches or centimetres. For example, if you have a 6-inch cake, you will need 20 inches of ribbon. If you have a 20 cm cake, then you will need 65 cm.

Once you have your ribbon, chill your buttercream-covered cake for about 15-30 minutes in the fridge. Cut the ribbon to the desired length. You can burn the ends with a lighter so the ribbon doesn’t fray.

Cut strips of baking paper a tiny bit narrower than the fabric ribbon. They should be the same length as the ribbon. Take the cake out of the fridge and apply a small amount of buttercream where the ribbon will be applied (usually the bottom of the cake). Apply the baking paper strips, then apply a small amount of buttercream to the baking paper at the back of the cake only.

Now, wrap the fabric ribbon around the cake and baking paper and attach the ends with buttercream. Alternatively, you can also do a strip of fondant instead of using baking paper and fabric ribbon.

Some other methods to attach ribbon to a buttercream cake include:

• Spraying the ribbon with no-stick spray, which will saturate the ribbon and prevent discolouration when it comes into contact with the buttercream.
• Using a strip of parchment paper the same width as the ribbon and putting it between the ribbon and the cake.
• Backing the ribbon with packing tape and attaching it with melted candy melts.
• Backing the ribbon with wax paper and attaching it with double-sided tape.
• Coating the ribbon with shortening and wiping off the excess with a paper towel.

Attaching ribbon to a fondant cake

If you are using a fabric ribbon, it is important to prevent the grease from the fondant from seeping into the ribbon and causing stains. One way to do this is to use a double-sided satin ribbon backed with a non-absorbent paper such as waxed or contact paper. You can also try ironing the back of the ribbon with waxed paper before attaching it to the cake. If your ribbon is a light colour, you may want to avoid using any type of paper backing, as it may be visible through the ribbon. Another option is to use a textured ribbon, which will not show signs of absorbing moisture or grease and is easier to work with.

Once your ribbon is prepared, you can attach it to the cake using small dabs of royal icing, piping gel, or edible glue. You may need to attach the ribbon a few inches at a time, and use additional decorations to cover any visible seams. If your ribbon is thin or light-coloured, you may need to use more adhesive to prevent sagging.

Another method for attaching ribbon to a fondant cake is to dip the ribbon in water, squeeze out the excess, and then attach it to the cake. As the ribbon dries, it will stick to the fondant. This method is easy, quick, and inexpensive, but it may not work as well with silk ribbons, as the water can cause them to dry patchily and bleed onto the cake.

Using ribbon with a piped border

If you want to use ribbon with a piped border on your wedding cake, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, if your cake is buttercream, the ribbon may get greasy. To prevent this, you can cut out a fondant backing for the ribbon to stick to, or use waxed paper as a barrier between the ribbon and the cake. You could also try lightly coating the ribbon with vegetable oil or Crisco, wiping off the excess with a paper towel, to prevent staining.

When it comes to attaching the ribbon to the cake, you have a few options. Double-sided tape, clear tape, or a dot of royal icing at the seam can all work well. If you're using a border, be careful not to get it on the ribbon. Pipe the border carefully away from the ribbon, or use royal icing, which won't stain.

Remember, the most important thing is to plan ahead and do some tests. Try out different methods on a small section of the ribbon and cake to see what works best. That way, you can avoid any last-minute surprises and ensure your cake looks perfect for your big day.

Using ribbon with a wax paper backing

To attach a ribbon to a wedding cake, you will need to use a double-sided satin ribbon that has been backed with a non-absorbent paper such as waxed or contact paper. The wax paper will act as a waterproofing and grease-resistant barrier between the ribbon and the cake.

Firstly, measure out the length of ribbon you need for your cake, and cut an equal length of parchment paper. Next, take the height of your ribbon and subtract about 1/8 of an inch. Cut the parchment paper to this new height. You should now have a strip of parchment paper that is slightly shorter than the ribbon, so that it doesn't show when the ribbon is applied.

Once the parchment paper is cut to size, wrap it around the cake. If you are applying the ribbon to a buttercream cake, ensure that the cake is cold, as this will make it easier to handle. Use a piece of cello tape to stick the parchment paper to itself.

Now, wrap your ribbon around the cake, over the top of the parchment paper strip. You can use a non-toxic glue stick to stick the ribbon to itself.

For buttercream cakes, it is recommended to wait until just before delivery to apply the ribbon, but you can apply the parchment paper strips earlier. Keeping the cakes cold will make it easier to apply the ribbon without messing up the frosting.

Using ribbon with a fondant backing

Prepare the Ribbon:

Before attaching the ribbon to your cake, it is important to prepare it to prevent staining from the fondant or buttercream. One method is to cut strips of wax paper to the same width as your ribbon and attach them to the back of the ribbon using a small amount of clear tape or a glue stick. This creates a barrier between the ribbon and the cake, preventing any grease from seeping through.

Alternatively, you can lightly coat the ribbon with a thin layer of vegetable oil or Crisco, wiping off any excess with a paper towel. This will darken the ribbon slightly, but it can help disguise any grease stains that may occur.

Attaching the Ribbon:

Once your ribbon is prepared, it's time to attach it to the cake. If using fondant, simply wrap the ribbon around each tier, securing it with small pieces of clear tape. For buttercream, cut out a strip of fondant the same size as your ribbon and use it as a backing to prevent the ribbon from becoming greasy. You can attach the fondant strip to the cake with buttercream, then place the ribbon on top.

Final Touches:

When placing the ribbon, ensure it is straight and smooth, creating a seamless look. You can use a small amount of royal icing or buttercream to secure the ends of the ribbon together at the back of the cake. If you want to add a border, be careful to pipe it a little away from the ribbon to avoid any staining.

By following these steps, you can incorporate ribbon with a fondant backing into your wedding cake design, adding a touch of elegance and personalization to your special day.

Frequently asked questions