Choosing The Right Amount Of Cake Mix For A Wedding Cake

A wedding cake is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the cake's size and style are essential factors to consider. The number of boxes of cake mix required depends on the number of guests, the size of the pans, and the desired number of tiers. A typical wedding cake has four tiers, each with three layers, totalling twelve layers of cake. The pans used for each tier can vary, but a common combination is 6, 8, 10, and 12 pans.

To determine the number of boxes of cake mix needed, it's important to consider the size of each pan and the desired height of the cake layers. A simple formula states that two boxes of cake mix can make two 10-inch cake layers, three 9-inch layers, four 8-inch layers, or six 6-inch layers. This formula applies to most store-bought cake mixes, such as Pillsbury, Betty Crocker, and Duncan Hines, which typically come in boxes of similar size and weight.

For a three-tiered wedding cake with 6, 9, and 12 pans, you would need one box for the top tier, two to three boxes for the middle tier, and six boxes for the bottom tier, totalling ten to twelve boxes of cake mix. This calculation assumes that each tier will have three layers and that you may need some extra mix in case of errors or changes in pan size.

Additionally, the type of cake mix and desired colour can impact the number of boxes needed. For a pristine white cake, using egg whites instead of whole eggs and oil instead of butter can help maintain a bright white colour. Choosing a denser cake mix, such as Pillsbury, and adding extracts like clear vanilla and almond can also enhance the flavour and texture.

Number of guests

The number of boxes of cake mix you will need for your wedding cake will depend on the number of guests you are expecting, the size of the pans you plan to use, and the number of tiers.

50 guests

For a wedding with 50 guests, you could opt for a three-tiered, triple-layered cake with the following dimensions:

• TOP TIER: Three 6” layers (one box mix)
• MIDDLE TIER: Three 8” layers (two box mixes)
• BOTTOM TIER: Three 10” layers (three box mixes)

This combination will yield a total of 69 servings, which is more than enough for 50 guests.

100 guests

For a wedding with 100 guests, you could consider a four-tiered wedding cake with the following dimensions:

• TOP TIER: Three 6” layers (one box mix)
• SECOND TIER: Three 8” layers (two box mixes)
• THIRD TIER: Three 10” layers (three box mixes)
• FOURTH/BOTTOM TIER: Three 12” layers (4 – 5 box mixes)

This combination will yield a total of 125 servings, which is suitable for 100 guests.

Alternatively, you could opt for a simpler design with fewer tiers and larger pan sizes. For example, a two-tiered cake with 10" and 14" layers would require three box mixes and would serve 38 + 64 guests, for a total of 102 servings.

200 guests

For a wedding with 200 guests, you will likely need a larger, more elaborate cake with more tiers. Here are two options:

Option 1: Four-tiered cake

• TOP TIER: Three 8″ layers (two box mixes)
• SECOND TIER: Three 10″ layers (three box mixes)
• THIRD TIER: Three 12″ layers (4 – 5 box mixes)
• FOURTH/BOTTOM TIER: Three 14″ layers (6 box mixes)

This combination will yield a total of 178 servings, which is suitable for a guest count of around 200.

Option 2: Five-tiered cake

• TOP TIER: Three 6″ layers (one box mix)
• SECOND TIER: Three 8″ layers (two box mixes)
• THIRD TIER: Three 10″ layers (three box mixes)
• FOURTH TIER: Three 12″ layers (4 – 5 box mixes)
• FIFTH/BOTTOM TIER: Three 14″ layers (6 box mixes)

This combination will yield a total of 189 servings, which is more than enough for 200 guests.

It is worth noting that not all guests may eat cake, so you may not need to provide a full serving for each guest. Consulting with a professional baker is always recommended to ensure you order the appropriate amount of cake for your wedding.

Size of pans

The size of the pans you will need for your wedding cake depends on the number of guests you plan to have and the number of tiers you want for your cake.

A typical wedding cake has four tiers, with three layers in each tier, for a total of twelve layers of cake. Each layer is usually about two inches tall.

• Two 10-inch cake layers: Two boxes of cake mix
• Three 9-inch cake layers: Two boxes of cake mix
• Four 8-inch cake layers: Two boxes of cake mix
• Six 6-inch cake layers: Two boxes of cake mix

If you want a larger wedding cake, you can increase the size of the pans or add more tiers. For example:

• A three-tiered wedding cake with 12-inch, 9-inch, and 6-inch tiers would require four boxes of cake mix.
• A four-tiered wedding cake with 14-inch, 12-inch, 10-inch, and 8-inch tiers would require six boxes of cake mix.
• A five-tiered wedding cake with 16-inch, 14-inch, 12-inch, 10-inch, and 8-inch tiers would require eight boxes of cake mix.

Remember that these estimates may vary slightly depending on the brand of cake mix you use and any additional ingredients you add to the mix. It's always a good idea to have an extra box of cake mix on hand in case you need to make more batter.

Number of tiers

The number of tiers you want your wedding cake to have will depend on the number of guests you are expecting. A typical wedding cake has four tiers, but you can opt for fewer or more tiers depending on the number of guests. Here is a breakdown of the number of boxes of cake mix you will need for different tiered cakes:

Two-Tiered Cake

For a simple two-tiered cake, you will need a total of three boxes of cake mix. The top tier would consist of three 6-inch layers (one box mix), and the bottom tier would be made up of three 9-inch layers (two box mixes). This cake will serve around 38 people.

Larger Two-Tiered Cake

If you want a slightly larger two-tiered cake, you can make the bottom tier with three 10-inch layers (three box mixes). This option will require a total of four boxes of cake mix and feed approximately 49 people.

Three-Tiered Cake

For a three-tiered cake, you will need to increase the number of boxes to a total of six. The top tier remains the same with three 6-inch layers (one box mix). The middle tier would be three 8-inch layers (two box mixes), and the bottom tier would consist of three 10-inch layers (three box mixes). This cake will serve around 69 people.

Large Three-Tiered Cake

If you're expecting a larger crowd, you can opt for a larger three-tiered cake. The top and middle tiers remain the same as the previous option. However, the bottom tier would be made up of three 12-inch layers, requiring four to five boxes of cake mix. This cake will feed approximately 94 people.

Four-Tiered Wedding Cake

A four-tiered wedding cake is a more substantial option and will serve a larger number of guests. The top tier uses one box mix for three 6-inch layers. The second tier requires two box mixes for three 8-inch layers. The third tier needs three box mixes for three 10-inch layers, and the fourth and final tier will use four to five box mixes for three 12-inch layers. This cake will comfortably feed 125 people.

Large Four-Tiered Wedding Cake

If you're expecting a very large number of guests, you can opt for a larger four-tiered wedding cake. The top tier of this cake would be made up of three 8-inch layers, requiring two box mixes. The second tier would be three 10-inch layers and need three box mixes. The third tier would consist of three 12-inch layers and use four to five box mixes. Finally, the bottom tier would be three 14-inch layers, requiring six box mixes. This grand cake will serve approximately 178 people.

Cake brand

The number of boxes of cake mix you will need for a wedding cake depends on several factors, such as the number of guests, the size of the cake pans, and the desired number of cake tiers and layers. A typical wedding cake has four tiers, with three layers each, for a total of twelve layers of cake.

When it comes to cake mix brands, there are several options available in the market, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here is an overview of some popular cake mix brands:

Pillsbury

Pillsbury is a well-known brand that offers a variety of cake mixes, including white cake, yellow cake, chocolate cake, carrot cake, and more. Their mixes are typically sold in boxes weighing about 15.25 ounces each. Pillsbury's Funfetti Cake Mix is a classic and popular choice, known for its airy and fluffy texture, as well as its affordability and accessibility.

Betty Crocker

Betty Crocker is another popular brand that offers a wide range of cake mixes, such as their Super Moist White Cake Mix and Delights Super Moist Red Velvet Cake Mix. Their red velvet cake mix is particularly notable, as it hits all the right notes for this type of cake, with its light, soft, and delicate texture, making it perfect for pairing with cream cheese frosting.

Duncan Hines

Duncan Hines offers a variety of cake mixes, including their Classic White Cake Mix. This mix calls for three egg whites to be beaten into the batter, resulting in a delicate and airy crumb. While the cake is quite fragile and may not hold up well under a layer of frosting, it could be a good choice for trifles or other desserts where the cake is crumbled into layers.

Miss Jones Baking Co.

Miss Jones Baking Co.'s Ultimate Vanilla Cake Mix is a premium option that calls for melted butter instead of oil, resulting in a rich flavour, dense texture, and moist feeling. This cake mix impressed some tasters, who commented that it tasted like it was made from scratch.

Great Value Deluxe

Great Value Deluxe Moist White Cake Mix is an affordable option that produces a tall, even layer. This mix uses four egg whites, resulting in a fluffy texture and a pale white interior. While it has a strong artificial vanilla flavour, it is a good choice for those on a budget.

Williams Sonoma

Williams Sonoma's Madagascar Vanilla Cake Mix is a high-end option, priced at $20. It requires additional ingredients like butter, egg whites, and milk, but the result is a moist, dense, and tender cake with an exceptional texture. This mix is ideal for those seeking a more luxurious option for their wedding cake.

365 by Whole Foods Market

The 365 Classic Chocolate Cake Mix from Whole Foods Market is a surprising winner in the chocolate cake category. It offers a rich and pronounced chocolate flavour, with a soft, moist, and not-too-sweet texture. This mix is versatile and affordable, making it a great choice for any baking project, including wedding cakes.

Baking temperature

The baking temperature of a cake depends on several factors, including the type of cake, the desired texture, the oven type, and the size and material of the tin.

Most cakes bake at temperatures between 325°F and 350°F. For instance, a typical cake for a family would be a three-layered 9” cake baked at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. However, larger cakes, such as 12-inch, 14-inch, and larger, are baked at a lower temperature (around 335°F) for a longer time. Baking at a lower temperature helps prevent the edges from getting too scorched while the centre bakes.

Additionally, the type of cake tin and its material can impact the baking temperature. Thicker tins may require a slightly higher temperature or a longer baking time, while silicon bakeware may need lower temperatures or shorter baking times.

It's also important to note that fan-assisted ovens cook faster than non-fan-assisted ovens, so you may need to reduce the temperature by around 10% and monitor the baking process closely.

Furthermore, the desired texture and appearance of the cake can influence the baking temperature. For a crunchy crust and a golden hue, higher temperatures are recommended. On the other hand, for a soft, fluffy sponge with an even rise, lower temperatures are preferred.

Moreover, the fat content in the cake recipe can affect the baking time and temperature. Cakes with lower fat content typically need more time at a lower temperature. If a moist cake is desired, a lower temperature is ideal, while for bakes where moisture removal is desired, such as biscuits and cookies, higher temperatures are used.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that not all ovens behave the same, and oven temperature dials may not always be accurate. Therefore, it is recommended to use an oven thermometer to ensure precise temperature readings and achieve perfect results.

Frequently asked questions