Creating A Floral Fantasy: Baking A Petal Wedding Cake

Creating a petal wedding cake is an intricate process that requires careful planning and execution. Inspired by the royal wedding cake of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, petal-shaped tiers have made a stylish comeback in the world of cake design. To craft a petal wedding cake, one must consider the overall design, flavour selection, and the intricate process of assembling and decorating the cake. The cake can be covered in fondant, with thinly rolled fondant used to create the petals, which are then carefully shaped and attached to the cake. The addition of flowers, either edible or decorative, further enhances the elegance of the cake. With a range of flavours and intricate decorations, a petal wedding cake is a true work of art that will impress guests at any wedding celebration.

How to make a rose petal ruffle cake

Making a rose petal ruffle cake is a long and repetitive process, but the result is a beautiful and elegant cake. This guide will take you through the steps to make one.

Firstly, you will need to cover your cake with fondant. It is recommended to use the same colour fondant as your petals for a uniform look, but this is a matter of personal preference. Next, roll out your fondant thinly, around 1-2 cm, with a rolling pin or pasta maker. Then, cut out circles with a round cutter—a 2” cutter was used in this example. Cover the cut-outs with plastic cling film to prevent them from drying out while you work.

Now, place one of the cut-outs on a piece of shaping foam and thin out the edges with a ball tool. Transfer the petal to a thicker piece of foam and use the ball tool to thin the inside, creating a cup shape. Brush a small section of the cake with water, gum glue, or piping gel. Start attaching the petals from the bottom up so that gravity helps anchor them. Place the first petal on the cake, ensuring the edges are curled out and not stuck to the surface. Use your fingers to create movement within the petal, then position another petal beside it.

You can use a Dresden tool to help shape the petals and create ruffles. Additionally, you can pinch the middle of each petal and fold it slightly before adding it to the cake. Repeat this process until you have covered the desired area of the cake.

This technique can be used to create a stunning rose petal ruffle cake, perfect for weddings or any special occasion. The process is time-consuming but well worth the effort for a show-stopping cake.

If you are looking to add further decorations to your cake, you can create sugar flowers to adorn your cake. This can be done by cutting out petals from thinly rolled gum paste and shaping them with a ball tool. You can create a multi-layered flower by cutting out petals in different sizes and colours, brushing them with lustre dust, and gluing them together with tylo glue. Finally, add a centre to the flower with a small ball of white gum paste dipped in non-pareils. Allow the flower to dry completely before placing it on your cake.

Choosing the right petal-shaped tier for the base

Size and Proportions:

Start by considering the size of your wedding cake and the number of tiers you plan to have. The base tier should be the largest and provide a stable foundation for the entire cake. Take into account the amount of space the petals will occupy once attached to the cake. This will impact the final diameter and proportions of your cake. Ensure there is adequate space around the cake board, especially if you plan to add ruffles or petals to the bottom tier.

Shape and Design:

Petal-shaped tiers can be designed in various shapes, such as round, oval, or asymmetrical. Choose a shape that complements the overall design of your wedding cake. Consider the edging or trim you want to use. Options include simple frills, intricate lace piping, pleated details, or antique-style flourishes. These design elements will enhance the petal shape and add visual interest.

Colour and Theme:

Decide on the colour scheme for your petal-shaped tier, ensuring it aligns with the theme of your wedding. You can opt for a uniform look by covering the cake and petals in the same colour, or create contrast by using different shades. Consider incorporating details such as quilting, beading, or textured effects to add depth and elegance to your design.

Flavour and Ingredients:

When choosing the flavour of your petal-shaped tier, consider the overall taste experience you want to create. Select flavours that complement each other and appeal to a variety of palates. Some popular options include vanilla sponge, lemon, raspberry, chocolate, hazelnut, and carrot cake. Keep in mind any dietary restrictions or allergies your guests may have, and ensure the ingredients used are safe for everyone.

Structural Considerations:

Pay attention to the weight and structure of your petal-shaped tier, especially if you plan to use a soft and moist cake sponge. Certain flavours, such as carrot cake, may not be suitable for the bottom tiers due to their weight and structural integrity. Consult with your baker or cake designer to ensure your cake is stable and securely assembled.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right petal-shaped tier for the base of your wedding cake, setting the tone for a beautiful and memorable design.

Using edible petals to finish your cake

When it comes to decorating your wedding cake with edible petals, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to choose petals that are safe for consumption and free from harmful chemicals. While some flowers may be visually appealing, they might not be edible, so it is crucial to do your research. Consult with a professional florist or cake decorator if you are unsure about the safety of a particular flower.

Once you have selected your edible petals, it is important to prepare and handle them properly. Use organic, pesticide-free petals and wash them thoroughly before use. Remove any greenery or stems, as they may contain toxins that are unsafe to consume.

When adding the petals to your cake, you have a few options. You can either place them directly on the cake, use them as garnishes on the cake's tiers, or scatter them around the cake for a whimsical touch. If you want to get creative, you can also make a confetti-style cake by mixing petals into your icing before decorating. This will give you a beautifully flecked icing and a random, pretty finish.

Another option is to candy your petals. This involves coating them in beaten egg white and sprinkling them with superfine sugar. This method takes the bite out of bolder flavors and gives them a sugary crunch. However, it is important to use pasteurized egg whites to avoid any risk of salmonella.

When decorating your cake with edible petals, timing is crucial. It is best to add the petals at the last possible moment, especially if the conditions are warm, as they can wilt. Store your petals in an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to use them. This will keep them fresh and perky.

Finally, consider the colour and shape of your petals when planning your cake decoration. While you don't want everything to be too matchy-matchy, having some common colours or shapes can complement the other flowers or decorations you are using.

Selecting the right cake flavour for each tier

Know Your Options

Firstly, familiarise yourself with the wide range of wedding cake flavours available. Traditional flavours like vanilla, chocolate, and red velvet are always popular choices, but don't be afraid to think outside the box. Some unique flavour options include passionfruit, pistachio, and even Guinness red velvet cake. Consider what flavours you and your partner enjoy and don't be afraid to get creative.

Consider Your Guests

While it's ultimately your decision, it's worth thinking about your guests' preferences. A good rule of thumb is to have at least one tier in a crowd-pleasing flavour, such as vanilla or chocolate. If you're having multiple tiers, you can cater to different tastes by offering a variety of flavours. This way, you can ensure that there's something for everyone, and your guests are more likely to indulge in a flavour they recognise and enjoy.

Think About the Season

Consider the season in which your wedding is taking place. For a summer wedding, light and refreshing flavours like lemon or passionfruit with light buttercream frosting can be a perfect choice. For autumn nuptials, richer flavours like chocolate and raspberry or spiced pear with chai tea icing can be a delightful option. You can also incorporate seasonal fruits or ingredients, such as pumpkin or spiced apple, to give your cake a seasonal twist.

Consult with Your Baker

Your chosen baker will play a crucial role in helping you select the right flavours. They will have expertise in which flavours work well together and can guide you in creating a delicious combination. Some bakers have a set menu of flavours they specialise in, while others may offer a more tailored approach. Be sure to discuss any specific ideas or themes you have in mind, such as incorporating cultural flavours or using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Don't Forget the Fillings

Fillings are an essential component of a wedding cake, adding flavour and moisture to each bite. Common choices include buttercreams, ganache, fresh fruit, compotes, and jams. You can also get creative with extras like boozy drizzles, biscuit crumbs, or caramel. Consult with your baker to find out what fillings they recommend to complement your chosen cake flavours.

Sample and Decide

Finally, the most enjoyable part of the process is the cake tasting! Be sure to sample a variety of cake and filling combinations to find your favourites. This is also a great opportunity to ensure that the flavours you select pair well together and create a delightful sensory experience for you and your guests.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose flavours that you and your partner love. It's your special day, so indulge in your favourite flavours and create a wedding cake that truly represents your tastes.

Knowing how to store your cake before the wedding

Storing a Cake Before the Wedding

If you are making the cake yourself, it is recommended to follow a timeline similar to professional bakers. Bake the cake and make the buttercream a few days before the wedding. Leave the cakes covered at room temperature until you fill and crumb coat them. Once the cakes have buttercream on them, store them in the fridge. If making buttercream in advance, leave it out at room temperature as it will be difficult to rewhip if refrigerated.

Storing a Buttercream Wedding Cake

Buttercream wedding cakes should not be stored in the fridge as the cold temperature will cause the buttercream to harden, resulting in a dry cake. Instead, keep the cake in a cool spot away from direct sunlight if you plan to eat it within a few days. If storing for a special occasion, it is best to keep the cake in its original packaging until it is ready to be presented.

Storing a Fresh Cream Wedding Cake

Fresh cream cakes are the exception and should be stored in the fridge.

Storing a Cut Wedding Cake

If you have leftover cake after the wedding, you can keep it fresh by placing it in an airtight container. If the cake has already been cut into slices, place each slice in individual airtight containers to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing a Wedding Cake

It is a tradition to store the top tier of the wedding cake to mark a special occasion, such as a one-year anniversary. To freeze a whole cake, wrap it in a couple of layers of cling film and place it in an airtight container in the freezer. Frozen wedding cakes can be stored for up to six months.

To defrost a frozen wedding cake, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit in a cool spot until it reaches room temperature. The cake is ready to eat when the buttercream is soft to the touch.

Frequently asked questions