Crafting A Wedding Masterpiece: One-Tier Cake Perfection

A wedding cake is a big part of the wedding celebration, and a one-tier cake can be just as impactful as a multi-tiered cake. If you're looking to make a one-tier wedding cake, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of your guest list and how many people you need to serve. This will determine the size and number of cakes you need to make. Next, choose a flavour and design that suits the happy couple's taste and wedding theme. Whether it's a simple buttercream cake or a more elaborate design with fresh flowers, there are endless possibilities to make a statement. Finally, don't forget to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to bake and decorate the cake, including any necessary cooling and setting time.

Choosing a flavour for your cake

If you want something more adventurous, there are plenty of other options to explore. For instance, you could go for a chocolate cake, a crowd-pleaser that can be paired with a drip glaze topping for a decadent touch. Alternatively, a red velvet cake is a unique choice, and you can divide the batter between different pan sizes to create a tiered effect.

Fruit-based flavours are also a great way to go, with options like lemon, carrot, or even a funfetti cake with fresh berries. These cakes can be decorated with matching toppings, like lemon curd or buttercream and berries, to enhance the flavour.

For a more indulgent option, a chocolate chip cake is a good choice, where you can fold mini chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful surprise.

If you're feeling creative, you can even mix and match flavours. For example, pair a vanilla cake with a carrot cake or red velvet cake for the bottom tier.

Don't forget to consider any dietary restrictions your guests may have. You may need to provide alternatives or adjust your recipe to accommodate those with specific dietary needs.

Selecting a frosting style

Fondant

Fondant is a firm sugar icing that creates a clean, polished look. It is a popular choice for wedding cakes due to its versatility and ability to be easily dyed. Fondant holds up well in warmer temperatures and can be used to create intricate designs and details that are difficult to achieve with buttercream. It is also a good option for a wedding in a warm climate as it is stable for indoor or outdoor venues. However, fondant is often the most expensive option and some may find it too thick or sweet.

American Buttercream

American buttercream is a classic option made with a combination of confectioners' sugar, butter, and milk or cream. It is a good choice for elegant or rustic designs and can be finished in a variety of ways. It is also more affordable than some other frosting options. However, American buttercream can be difficult to apply due to its grittiness, and it may not be suitable for very warm temperatures as it melts easily.

Italian and Swiss Meringue Buttercream

Italian and Swiss meringue buttercream are made with meringue, resulting in a light, fluffy, exceptionally smooth, and less sweet buttercream. These types of buttercream give the cake a shiny finish and are perfect for couples who want a great flavor without the cloying sweetness. However, they are not suitable for outdoor summer weddings as they are susceptible to melting in moderate to high temperatures.

Ganache

Ganache is a rich and decadent option, typically made with a mixture of chocolate and cream. It is a favorite among chocolate lovers and can be used to create a glossy finish. Ganache holds up well in high levels of heat but is susceptible to temperature variations during transport, so it may not be the best option for long-distance travel. The cost of ganache can vary depending on the quality of the chocolate used.

Cream Cheese Buttercream Blend

Cream cheese buttercream is a delicious option, especially if you are pairing your cake with carrot cake, red velvet, or lemon cake. However, it can have a yellowish tint due to the nature of cream cheese, and its soft texture is not ideal for intricate details.

Whipped Cream Frosting

Whipped cream frosting is a light and delicious option, but it can only be used for a smooth frosting finish. It is best suited for indoor weddings as it can only be out of the cooler for a limited time.

Adding decorations

Flowers and Greenery:

Flowers and greenery are a classic choice for wedding cake decorations. You can use real or sugar flowers and greenery. Sugar blooms and greenery give your cake a more refined and formal look, while fresh blooms, especially when paired with greenery, add a bright and fresh touch. If you opt for only greenery, consider adding fruits or berries for a modern twist. You can also embrace the season or theme of your wedding with your choices. For example, succulents and greenery for a desert wedding, fir and ferns for a Christmas wedding, or subtle pastel flowers for a spring wedding.

Colour Schemes:

Playing with colours is another way to decorate your cake. You can create an ombre effect, try watercolour designs, or even do colour blocking. Metallic leaf in copper, silver, or gold is a great way to add a shiny and elegant touch.

Drip Designs:

A drip design is a modern and fresh idea, especially for naked cakes. You can use a variety of glazes or icings for the drip effect, such as chocolate, caramel, or vanilla.

Cake Toppers:

Custom cake toppers are a fun and unique way to personalise your wedding cake. You can include your names, monograms, banners, or even a photo. If you want to embrace the season or location of your wedding, consider mussel shells for a coastal wedding, fresh berries and pistachios for a summer or fall wedding, or fresh citrus slices for a tropical theme.

Other Decorative Elements:

• Macarons: Stack macarons on top of your cake or use them as a creative seating chart by writing guests' names and table assignments on them.
• Disco Balls: Decorate your cake with miniature disco balls and metallic sprinkles for a fun and playful look, especially if you're having a '70s-themed wedding.
• Fruits: Fresh berries, kumquats, or citrus slices can add a pop of colour and a seasonal touch.
• Glitter and Sprinkles: Add some sparkle to your cake with sugar crystals, sprinkles, or edible glitter.
• Ribbons: A silk bow can be a chic and classy finishing touch to a simple, small wedding cake.

Remember, when adding decorations to your one-tier wedding cake, the possibilities are endless. Get creative and choose elements that reflect your style and theme to make your cake truly unique and memorable.

Preparing the cake pans

Firstly, ensure you have the right size and number of cake pans for your one-tier wedding cake. For a single-tier cake, you will need one pan, typically a round one. The size of the pan will depend on the desired size of your cake. Common sizes include 6-inch, 8-inch, or 10-inch pans. It is recommended to use pans that are three inches deep to prevent batter overflow during baking.

Once you have the appropriate cake pan, follow these steps to prepare it:

• Spray the pan with cooking spray. This will help ensure that the cake releases easily after baking.
• Cut a round piece of wax paper or parchment paper to fit the bottom of the pan. This step is important as it will ensure the cake doesn't stick to the pan.
• Place the wax paper round into the bottom of the pan.
• Spray the wax paper with cooking spray or grease it with butter or shortening. This step will help the cake release more easily and create a smooth surface.
• If desired, you can also dust the pan with flour after greasing. This is known as "flouring" the pan and can provide extra insurance against sticking.
• Repeat these steps for any additional pans you are using.
• After adding the batter to the prepared pans, use a spatula to smooth the tops and eliminate any air bubbles.
• Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake according to your recipe instructions.
• To test if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the centre. If it comes out clean, without any wet batter, the cake is ready.
• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your one-tier wedding cake is properly prepared and baked, creating a beautiful and delicious dessert for your special day.

Baking and assembling the cake

Baking and assembling a one-tier wedding cake is a fun and rewarding project. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Baking the Cake:

• Prepare your ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients, including sugar, cake flour, eggs, butter, milk, and any additional flavourings or fillings you desire.
• Prepare the pans: Grease three 6-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottoms of the pans with parchment paper rounds, then grease the parchment paper as well. This ensures the cakes will release easily from the pans.
• Mix the batter: Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and milk, mixing well after each addition. Finally, slowly mix in the dry ingredients (cake flour, baking powder, and baking soda) until just incorporated.
• Bake the cakes: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Use a kitchen scale to ensure each pan has the same amount of batter. Place the pans in the oven, preheated to 350°F, and bake for around 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
• Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans set on a wire cooling rack before attempting to remove them or decorate them. This step is crucial for the cakes to firm up and be easier to handle.

Assembling the Cake:

• Level the cakes: Use a large serrated knife to slice a thin, even layer off the tops of all the cakes. This step ensures a flat surface for stacking and creates a neat finish.
• Make the frosting: Prepare a batch of buttercream frosting by beating softened butter until creamy, then gradually adding confectioners' sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or milk as needed.
• Apply the crumb coat: Place one cake layer on a cake board or serving platter. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top, then add the second cake layer. Repeat with the third layer, then use the remaining frosting to cover the entire cake with a thin crumb coat. Chill the cake for 15-30 minutes to set the crumb coat.
• Final frosting and decorations: After the crumb coat has set, apply a final coat of frosting to the cake, using a palette knife or icing spatula for a smooth finish. You can also create a textured look by using a small icing spatula and running it around the cake while spinning it on a cake turntable. Decorate the cake with fresh flowers, macarons, berries, or any other desired toppings.

Your one-tier wedding cake is now ready to be displayed and served! Remember to store any leftover cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Frequently asked questions