Creating A Split-Level Wedding Cake Masterpiece

Split-in-half wedding cakes are a unique and challenging style of cake to make. They are essentially two separate cakes that are assembled together with a flat side on each cake. This style of cake is also known as a half and half cake or a split cake. They are a great focal point for weddings and can be customised to suit the couple, such as by including the couple's names on their respective halves of the cake. This style of cake requires a lot of internal structure to ensure stability during transport and display.

Internal structure: use dowels and cake boards between tiers

To create a split-in-half wedding cake, internal structure is key. The cake will need a lot of support to ensure it doesn't topple over. Here are some steps to achieve this:

Firstly, use cake boards between the tiers. Cut the cake boards to fit the size of each tier. You can use foam cut into half circles for each of the top tiers, assembling them on-site. This will provide a stable base for each tier.

Next, dowelling is essential. You can use wooden dowels, or thick milkshake straws, cut to the appropriate height for each tier. Place a cake pan that is the same size as the second tier on top of the bottom tier and trace an outline. Insert the dowel into the centre and mark where it's level with the top of the cake. Repeat this process for each tier, ensuring the dowels are inserted in the proper places.

For added stability, consider using a central dowel. Sharpen the end of a wooden dowel and push it through the top cake tier until it reaches the bottom cake board. Trim off any excess. This will help keep the cake from tipping over.

When assembling the cake, fill in any gaps between the tiers with a line of buttercream. This will help to secure the tiers together and create a seamless look.

By following these steps, you can create a stable and secure internal structure for your split-in-half wedding cake.

Transport: use a cake safe for delivery

Transporting a wedding cake can be a stressful task, but with the right precautions, it can be done successfully. Here are some tips for delivering a split-in-half wedding cake using a cake safe:

Plan Ahead:

Before transporting the cake, it is important to plan ahead and gather all the necessary materials. This includes a cake safe or box, a flat surface in the vehicle, and enough time to drive slowly and carefully. It is also crucial to check the measurements and refrigeration requirements of the cake with the baker.

Use a Cake Safe or Box:

A cake safe is a specialised transport box designed for tiered cakes. It has a central rod that goes through the middle of the cake to keep it stable and prevent it from toppling over. If a cake safe is not available, a sturdy cardboard box can be used instead. Ensure that the box is the same width as the cake drum or board to prevent the cake from sliding around.

Prepare the Vehicle:

The vehicle used for transportation should have a flat, level surface, such as an SUV or a car with folded-down back seats. Avoid placing the cake on car seats or laps, as they are not level and can cause the cake to slide or tilt. If using the floorboards, consider adding a non-stick liner or a yoga mat to create a non-slip surface and absorb shock during the drive.

Keep the Vehicle Cool:

Even if the cake does not require refrigeration, it is essential to maintain a cool temperature in the vehicle. Turn on the air conditioning before placing the cake inside and keep it running during the entire drive. This is especially important when transporting buttercream cakes, as they can melt in warm conditions.

Drive Carefully:

When driving with a wedding cake, it is crucial to drive slowly and carefully. Avoid sharp turns, speed bumps, and steep inclines. If possible, have someone sit next to the cake to hold on to it during the drive. Consider investing in a "cake on board" magnet or sticker to explain to other drivers why you are driving slowly.

Use Supports and an Emergency Kit:

If the split-in-half wedding cake is tiered, it is essential to use supports, such as wooden dowels or plastic bubble tea straws, to prevent the tiers from sliding or falling apart. Bring an emergency kit with extra frosting, icing spatulas, and other cake-decorating tools in case any repairs are needed.

By following these tips and using a cake safe or sturdy box, you can confidently transport a split-in-half wedding cake and ensure it arrives safely and securely at its destination.

Flavours: each tier can be a different flavour

One of the best things about a wedding cake is the variety of flavours you can choose from. Each tier can be a different flavour, so you can have a few options for your guests to choose from.

If you want to stick to tradition, you could opt for a fruit cake, which is the classic choice for a wedding. However, this is not to everyone's taste, so you might want to go for something more popular, like vanilla or chocolate.

If you want to get creative, you could try a tropical fruit flavour, such as coconut and guava buttercream, or a nutty flavour like pistachio and dark chocolate. You could even add a shot of espresso to the chocolate to enhance its bitterness.

For a summer wedding, a zesty citrus cake is a great option. Lemon and elderflower is a popular choice, as is lemon and blueberry. Alternatively, for a winter wedding, a rich chocolate cake or a spice cake with pumpkin cream cheese frosting could be perfect.

If you're still unsure, why not ask your baker for their recommendations? They will be able to suggest flavour combinations that work well together and are sure to be a hit with your guests.

Design: add flowers, lacework, and gold details

A split wedding cake adorned with flowers, lacework, and gold details can be a stunning and elegant showpiece. Here are some ideas to achieve this design:

Flowers

Fresh or silk flowers can be used to add a romantic and natural touch to the cake. Consider using real flowers, such as white sugar flowers with golden accents, to create an elegant statement. Alternatively, opt for silk flowers, which can be attached to the cake using a material cut to size. This will ensure the flowers don't touch the cake directly, as some varieties may be poisonous.

Lacework

Lacework is a timeless and classic choice for a wedding cake, especially if you're aiming for a vintage or rustic style. There are several ways to incorporate lace details:

• Fondant-molded lace pieces: Create show-stopping, intricate lace patterns using fondant.
• Imprinting lace: Subtly add texture by imprinting lace into a crusting buttercream-frosted cake.
• Piping buttercream lace: Pipe buttercream lace textures to create a beautiful contrast between the smooth and textured tiers.
• Stencils: Use stencils to apply delicate buttercream lace patterns for a more subtle effect.
• Flexible edible lace: This newer technique provides an affordable way to include detailed lacework and is a popular choice for wedding cakes.

Gold Details

Gold accents can be incorporated in various ways to achieve a bronzed or gilded look:

• Gold foil: Use gold foil flakes or sheets to add elegant touches, such as a gilded accent on a black cake or a golden monogram on a white cake.
• Gold drip: Create a modern look with a gold drip effect, either by using gold chocolate or painting it on.
• Gold paint: Hand-paint gold details such as flecks, bands, or layers to add a metallic finish.
• Gold leaves: Incorporate gold leaves as décor or pair them with white sugar flowers for a sophisticated design.
• Gold embossing: Emboss a tier with a unique pattern, such as crocodile embossing, for a subtle yet eye-catching effect.

Baking: bake and chill cakes before assembly

Baking a wedding cake can be a stressful process, but chilling your cakes before assembly can help you achieve a smooth and professional finish. Here are some tips for the baking process:

Before you start baking, make sure you have all the right equipment. You'll need good-quality cake pans to ensure your cakes bake evenly. It's also important to have a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients for accuracy, especially when dividing a cake mix. Additionally, consider using parchment paper to line your pans and a large serrated knife for trimming and torting your cakes.

When it comes to the actual baking, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, make sure you fill your pans about 3/4 of the way full to ensure even baking. You can also weigh each pan to ensure they have the same amount of batter and bake evenly. After baking, let your cakes cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan before turning them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely. This cooling process is crucial, as warm cakes are more tender and prone to breaking.

Once your cakes are completely cool, it's time to chill them. Chilling the cakes helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and reducing the risk of cracking or collapsing during assembly. Wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or even overnight. This will give you a stable base to work with when you start assembling and decorating your cake.

Frequently asked questions