The Perfect Multi-Tiered Cake: Using Dowels For Support

Cutting a wedding cake is a beloved tradition, but it can be a daunting task for beginners. Wedding cakes are often tiered and held together by dowels, which are small wooden or plastic sticks that support the cake and prevent it from sinking or tipping over. To cut a wedding cake with dowels, you'll need the right tools, such as a chef's knife, needle-nose pliers, gloves, paper towels, hot water, a cutting board, and a trash can. The first step is to remove any decorations, such as cake toppers and flowers, and set them aside for the couple to keep as a memento. Then, carefully remove the top tier of the cake and set it aside, as couples often like to save this for their first anniversary. Next, remove the centre dowel rod and any other support dowels that are visible. You can use needle-nose pliers or your fingers to pull them out. Once the dowels are removed, you can start cutting the cake into slices. Cut a thin slice off the edge of the tier to create a flat edge, and then cut the tier into rectangular slices, repeating this process for each tier. Finally, plate the slices and serve them to the guests.

How to Cut a Wedding Cake with Dowels

Remove the top tier of the cake and set it aside

Removing the top tier of a wedding cake is a crucial step in the cake-cutting process. This step is especially important if the couple intends to save the top tier for their first anniversary, as is often the tradition. Here is a detailed guide on how to carefully remove and set aside the top tier of a wedding cake:

Firstly, locate the top tier of the cake. Wedding cakes usually have multiple tiers, and the top tier is typically the smallest one. Identify this tier and ensure you have a steady grip on the cake stand or board below it.

Next, carefully slide a knife under the top tier. Gently lift the tier by sliding the knife underneath it and applying a slight upward force. If the cake is particularly delicate, you may want to use a cake lifter or a large spatula instead of a knife to minimise the risk of damaging the cake.

Once the tier is slightly lifted, use your other hand to support the base of the tier from below. Gently pull the tier upwards, straightening your knife as you do so. This action will help free the top tier from any support dowels that may be present.

Finally, place the top tier on a separate plate or box. Often, bakeries will provide a special box for storing the top tier. Place the tier inside and set it aside in a safe location, preferably away from the main cake-cutting area to avoid any accidental damage.

By following these steps, you will successfully remove and set aside the top tier of the wedding cake, ensuring it remains intact and fresh for the couple to enjoy on their first anniversary or for any other special occasion.

Remove the centre dowel rod

Removing the centre dowel rod is a crucial step in disassembling and serving a wedding cake. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Locate the Centre Dowel Rod

Before cutting and serving the cake, it is essential to identify the presence and location of the centre dowel rod. The centre dowel is usually inserted through the middle of the cake, providing stability to the tiers above. It is often made from wood or plastic and is specifically designed for use with food products.

Unstack the Cake Tiers

To access the centre dowel rod, carefully unstack the cake tiers. Start by removing the top tier, which is often set aside for the couple's first anniversary. Gently lift the tier straight up to free it from the support dowels. Place the top tier in a box provided by the bakery or set it aside in a safe location.

With the top tier removed, you can now access the centre dowel rod. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers or bull-nose pliers dedicated solely to food preparation to grip the dowel and lift it straight out of the cake. If you do not have pliers, you can carefully pull the dowel out with your fingers. Ensure that you have a firm grip on the dowel to avoid damaging the cake or causing it to shift.

Clean Up and Prepare for Cutting

After removing the centre dowel rod, it is a good idea to clean up any residual crumbs or frosting on the cake surface. Use paper towels to gently wipe down the area where the dowel was removed. Now, the cake is almost ready for cutting and serving.

Cut and Serve the Cake

With the centre dowel rod removed, you can proceed to cut and serve the cake. Refer to other sources or guides for specific instructions on how to cut a wedding cake, as it involves techniques such as cutting a grid or slices of specific thicknesses. Remember to provide a plate or platter for serving and enjoy the delicious cake!

Unstack the tiers

Unstacking the tiers is a crucial step in cutting a wedding cake with dowels. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, remove the top tier of the cake and set it aside. The top tier is often saved for the couple's first anniversary, so it is typically not served. This step is important as it will give you access to the dowels that are supporting the rest of the cake. Gently slip the knife under the top tier and pull it straight up to free it from the dowels. Place the top tier in a box provided by the bakery or in a safe place for the couple.

Next, remove the centre dowel rod if there is one. This rod is used to provide extra stability to the cake and is usually made of wood or plastic. It is important to remove it before unstacking the rest of the tiers to avoid any accidents.

Now, you can start unstacking the remaining tiers. Each tier of the cake is typically built on its own cardboard base, which makes it easier to move and handle. Carefully lift each tier off the cake, being mindful of any dowels that might be attached to it. Place each tier on a separate surface or stand-by so that you have room to work.

Once all the tiers are separated, you can start removing the dowels from each tier. The dowels are usually made of wood, thick plastic, or even straws, and they are used to support the weight of the tiers above. You can use a pair of needle-nose pliers or your fingers to pull them straight out. Removing the dowels before cutting the cake into slices will make the process much easier.

It is important to note that the placement and number of dowels can vary depending on the bakery, so it is a good idea to have a diagram of the internal structure of the cake beforehand. This will help you locate and remove all the dowels efficiently.

Remove the dowels with pliers or fingers

Removing the dowels from a wedding cake is a crucial step in the cake-cutting process. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Locating the Dowels

Before you can remove the dowels, you need to know where they are. Usually, the baker will inform you of the number of dowels and their positioning in each tier. If not, you can assume that the dowels are placed in the centre of each cake tier. The dowels are typically inserted after icing, so you may be able to spot them by looking for small sections covered with a dab of royal icing. If the baker has provided a diagram of the internal structure, use that to identify the number and position of the dowels.

Removing the Dowels with Pliers or Fingers

Now, it's time to remove the dowels themselves. Needle-nose pliers or small bull-nose pliers are excellent tools for this task, making it quick and easy. If you don't have pliers, you can also use your fingers to pull the dowels out. Grip the exposed part of the dowel firmly with the pliers or your fingers and pull it straight out of the cake. Be careful not to damage the cake as you remove each dowel. Straws, which are sometimes used as support dowels, can also be cut around and removed later if needed.

It is important to remove all the dowels in a particular tier before moving on to the next tier. This will make the cutting process much easier, as you won't have to navigate around obstacles while trying to create even slices.

Handling the Dowels Safely

To ensure food safety, it is recommended to use a separate pair of pliers that have not been used for any other purpose besides food preparation. This will help prevent any contamination. If you are using your fingers to remove the dowels, make sure your hands are clean and dry to avoid any potential transfer of bacteria.

By following these steps, you will successfully remove the dowels from the wedding cake, making it ready for slicing and serving. Remember to work carefully and patiently, especially if you are a novice at handling cakes.

Cut a 1 donut ring on the outer edge of the cake

To cut a wedding cake with dowels, you'll need to disassemble the cake before serving. Remove any decorations and flowers, and carefully store them for the couple. Next, remove the top tier and box it for the couple's anniversary. Then, remove the centre dowel rod and any other support dowels with a pair of pliers or your fingers.

Now, you can make your first cut. Cut a 1" donut ring on the outer edge of the cake. This will give you a flat edge to start making clean cuts. Cut the ring into 1" slices for wedding servings, or 2" slices for party servings. Repeat this process, cutting another inch into the cake and slicing through the fondant. Place the slice onto a plate and cut it into two pieces. Continue this process, cutting the slice into three, then four pieces, and so on. Your centrepiece will have the most slices, and then you will start counting back down.

This method ensures you get the correct number of servings for all of your guests.

Frequently asked questions