Creating A Wedding Cake: A Step-By-Step Guide

Making a wedding cake is not as difficult as one might think. However, there is some significant planning and effort that will need to happen. It is important to consider the number of guests, the cake's size, the flavour, the design, the timeline, the tools and equipment needed, the assembly, the transportation, and the decoration.

It is also crucial to allow enough time for baking, assembling, and decorating the cake. It is recommended to make a test cake and keep careful notes. Additionally, using a recipe specifically designed for a wedding cake is essential to ensure that it is sturdy enough and makes the right amount of batter and icing. The cake layers can be made ahead of time and frozen, and the buttercream can also be made in advance.

When it comes to tools and equipment, some of the essentials include cake pans, parchment paper, a large serrated knife, cardboard cake boards, a platter to serve the cake, a pastry bag, and decorations such as fresh flowers or cake toppers.

For assembly, it is important to use cake boards and wooden dowels or straws for support. The cake should be stacked and filled with buttercream, and any gaps between the tiers should be filled. A central dowel can also be used to provide additional stability.

Transporting the cake can be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the process. It is crucial to have a flat and level surface in a well-air-conditioned vehicle. A cake repair kit with extra frosting, a small and large offset spatula, and paper towels is also recommended in case any last-minute fixes are needed.

Finally, when it comes to decoration, fresh flowers, buttercream flowers, or fondant flowers can be used. It is important to make sure that any fresh flowers are non-toxic and food-safe.

Planning and preparation: Consider the number of guests, pick an attainable design, and decide on flavours and frosting

Planning and preparation are key to creating a wedding cake. Here are some essential factors to consider:

Number of Guests:

The number of guests attending the wedding is a critical factor in determining the size of the wedding cake. It is essential to ensure that there is enough cake for everyone, especially if the cake is the only dessert being served. As a general guide, a two-tier cake serves 60 guests, a three-tier cake serves 100 guests, and a four-tier cake serve 150 guests. For larger weddings, additional tiers or a sheet cake can be added to supplement the main cake.

Cake Design:

When selecting a cake design, it is important to choose an attainable and realistic design that can be executed successfully. Consider the level of difficulty and the time and skills required to create the chosen design. Intricate designs and elaborate decorations may require more time and expertise, so it is essential to assess your capabilities or seek assistance from experienced bakers or decorators.

Flavours and Frosting:

Deciding on the flavours and frosting of the wedding cake is a crucial aspect of the planning process. It is essential to consider the preferences of the couple and offer a variety of flavours that will appeal to the guests. Traditional wedding cake flavours include vanilla, chocolate, and fruit. However, modern weddings often feature unique and innovative flavour combinations. Popular frosting options include buttercream, cream cheese, and fondant. It is advisable to select flavours and frostings that complement each other and create a cohesive taste experience.

Additionally, it is important to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies that guests may have. Offering alternatives, such as gluten-free or vegan options, can ensure that everyone can enjoy the cake.

In summary, planning and preparation are vital for creating a successful wedding cake. By considering the number of guests, selecting an attainable design, and deciding on flavours and frosting, you can ensure that the wedding cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing and enjoyed by all.

Baking: Use good-quality cake pans, weigh pans to ensure even baking, and chill cakes before assembly

Using good-quality cake pans is essential for achieving evenly baked cakes with straight edges. Opt for reputable brands such as Fat Daddio or Magic Line. Additionally, weighing your pans before pouring in the batter ensures that each pan has the same amount of batter, resulting in cakes that bake evenly and end up at the same height. This is especially important if you're creating a tiered cake with multiple layers of varying sizes.

Chilling your cakes before assembly is a crucial step in the cake-making process. Once your cakes are baked, allow them to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing them from the pans. Then, wrap them in plastic wrap and either chill them overnight in the refrigerator or flash-freeze them for an hour. Chilling your cakes makes them easier to handle and helps prevent crumbling when you begin assembly and decoration.

If you're making a tiered cake, it's important to use appropriate support for stacking your layers. Milkshake straws or wooden dowels can be used for cakes up to 10" in diameter, while larger cakes may require sturdier options such as wooden or plastic pillars. When inserting supports, be sure to measure and trim them to the proper height so that they fit securely within each tier.

Assembly: Use a turntable, dowels, and a sturdy base for support

A turntable, dowels, and a sturdy base are essential for assembling a wedding cake. Here's a detailed guide on how to use these tools for a stable and stunning cake:

Turntable

A turntable, also known as a lazy Susan, is indispensable when assembling and decorating a wedding cake. It allows you to easily spin the cake as you frost and decorate it, ensuring a smooth and even finish. You can place a shelf liner underneath the cake to prevent it from sliding as you work.

Dowels

Dowel rods or straws are crucial for supporting the weight of the cake tiers and preventing them from collapsing. For a three-tier cake, you'll need to insert dowels into the bottom two tiers. Cut the dowels to the size of each tier, ensuring they are level with the top of the cake. Carefully insert them into the cake with clean hands. You can use wooden dowels, bubble tea straws, or plastic dowels, depending on your preference and the stability of your cake.

Sturdy Base

A sturdy base is essential for supporting the weight of the entire cake. A thick cake drum or a sturdy cake board is recommended. The base should be at least 12-13mm thick and made of durable material like Masonite or Formica-covered board. It should also have feet so you can easily lift and move the cake. If you're using a cake board, cut it about 1/8 inch smaller than the cake tier to ensure it's not visible when the tiers are stacked.

Assembly Tips

• Stack the cake tiers directly on top of each other, or use pillars or cake separator plates for separation.
• Use a cake pan of the same size as the second tier to trace an outline on the bottom tier. Insert a dowel in the centre and mark its level with the top of the cake. This will guide you when stacking the tiers.
• Carefully lift each tier with an offset spatula and place it on top of the dowels.
• Fill any gaps between the tiers with a line of buttercream for a seamless finish.
• If desired, use a central dowel through all the tiers to enhance stability and prevent the cake from tipping over.
• Refrigerate the assembled cake until it's time for delivery or display.

Transport: Use a flat, air-conditioned vehicle, and a box to prevent sliding

Transporting a wedding cake is a delicate task. Here are some tips to ensure your cake arrives safely and in one piece:

• Use a flat, air-conditioned vehicle: Choose a vehicle with a large, flat cargo area, such as an SUV or a van. Make sure the air conditioning is working properly to keep the cake cool during transport.
• Box the cake: Place the cake in a sturdy box to protect it from bumps and vibrations during transport. The box should be large enough to accommodate the cake comfortably and prevent sliding. You can also use a cake safe, which has a central dowel system to prevent cakes from falling over.
• Secure the cake: Use a non-slip mat or a Silpat to keep the cake box from sliding around in the vehicle. Place signs on the vehicle that say "Wedding Cake on Board" to alert other drivers and reduce road rage.
• Plan your route: Choose a route that avoids potholes, speed bumps, and sharp turns as much as possible. Drive slowly and carefully to minimise the risk of the cake sliding or toppling.
• Assemble on-site: If possible, transport the cake in separate tiers and assemble it at the venue. This reduces the risk of damage during transport.
• Have a repair kit: Prepare a cake repair kit with extra frosting, offset spatulas, and any other decorations you may need. This will allow you to make last-minute fixes if the cake is jostled or bumped during transport.

Display: Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving

Displaying the wedding cake is the final step in the process. It is important to allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving. This is because buttercream is not too tolerant of heat. If the cake has been kept in the fridge, it should be allowed to sit out for a few hours before serving. This will ensure the butter in the cake is not too hard and will taste better.

However, it is important not to leave the cake out at room temperature for too long. If the cake is left out for 8 hours in a hot room, for example, it may begin to droop and sag. It is best to aim for 1-2 hours before the ceremony and avoid leaving the cake in a warm environment.

If the wedding cake is being displayed before the reception, it is likely that it will be out for long enough to reach room temperature. If the cake is being cut at the beginning of the reception, it may be best to take it out of the fridge an hour or so before the ceremony begins.

It is also important to consider the temperature of the room the cake will be displayed in. If it is a hot day and the room is warm, the cake will reach room temperature faster.

The cake should be displayed on a table, preferably with a cake stand or base. It is also a good idea to put a ribbon around the base of the cake to add to the presentation. Fresh flowers can also be added to the cake, but it is important to ensure that they are non-toxic and have been made food-safe.

Frequently asked questions