Sugar Plates For Weddings: A Step-By-Step Guide

Sugar work is an art form that can add a touch of elegance to any wedding cake. From spun sugar to sugar plates, there are many ways to incorporate this sweet treat into your big day. For instance, you can create a sugar plate using an old Elizabethan recipe that includes ingredients like double-refined sugar, egg whites, gum dragon, and rose water. Or, you can try your hand at spinning sugar, a technique that involves drizzling and whipping hot caramel to create delicate strands that can be shaped into nests or bowls. Whether you're looking to add a unique touch to your wedding cake or simply explore the world of sugar art, these techniques are sure to impress and delight.

Choosing a cake stand

Size

The most crucial factor when choosing a cake stand is ensuring it is the appropriate size for your cake. The stand should be slightly larger in diameter than your cake to prevent the cake from overhanging, which can cause the stand to become unstable. For example, if your cake has a 10-inch base, opt for a stand that is 10 or 12 inches in diameter.

Weight

Wedding cakes can be heavy, so it is essential to choose a stand that can bear the weight. Avoid flimsy stands and opt for something with a good weight to it. Consult your baker about the expected weight of the cake, and select a stand that can safely support it.

Shape and Material

The shape and material of your cake stand will depend on your personal preference and the overall design of your wedding. The most common shape is a pedestal cake stand, which adds height and has a classic design. Solid colours such as black, white, clear, metallic, or wood are all popular options. If you have a multi-tiered cake, you may opt for a cake plate instead to avoid adding unnecessary height. Traditional silver and gold plates can be a beautiful and timeless choice.

Creativity

If you want to get creative, there are many unique options for cake stands. For instance, you could use a clear floating pillar or even hang your cake from the ceiling, provided it is secure and stable. You could also opt for a clear acrylic plinth filled with flowers or a wedding cake hoop stand, which consists of a metal hoop suspended over the cake.

Rental or Purchase

When deciding whether to rent or buy a cake stand, consider your budget and whether you will use the stand again in the future. Rental stands can start as low as $25, while purchasing can cost up to $600. If you choose to buy, you can look for stands at places like Etsy, Home Goods, Crate and Barrel, or Prop Options. Alternatively, you could ask your bakery if they have stands available for rent or purchase.

Multi-Purpose

If you are looking to get more use out of your cake stand, consider a multi-purpose option that can be used for other applications, such as displaying cupcakes, appetizers, or pastries during holiday functions. You could also use it as a distinctive centerpiece with candles or other decorative accents.

Baking the cake

Baking a wedding cake is a fun but challenging task. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you bake a delicious and stable wedding cake:

Prepare your pans and ingredients:

• Gather all the necessary ingredients, including flour, sugar, butter, eggs, orange extract, cream of tartar, orange peel, and baking pans with a minimum 2-inch height.
• Butter the bottoms of your baking pans and line them with cooking parchment or waxed paper. Butter the paper and dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Make the cake batter:

• In a separate bowl, stir together the egg yolks, melted butter, orange extract, and orange peel until well combined.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture forms stiff, shiny peaks.
• Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
• Sift the flour over the batter and gently fold it in using a flexible spatula.

Bake the cake layers:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pans, making sure they are about 3/4 full.
• Bake the cakes according to their sizes: the 6-inch layer for 30 minutes, the 8-inch layer for 35-40 minutes, the 10-inch layer for 45-50 minutes, and the 12-inch layer for 50 minutes.
• Note that smaller layers can be baked simultaneously, but the 12-inch layer should be baked separately.

Cool and prepare the cake layers:

• Allow the cake layers to cool completely on wire racks.
• Run a knife around the edges of the cakes to release them from the pans.
• Invert the layers onto corrugated cardboard rounds of matching sizes.
• Peel off the paper from the bottom of the cakes.
• Wrap the cake layers airtight and freeze them until you are ready to assemble the cake.

By following these steps, you will have perfectly baked and prepared cake layers that are ready for filling, frosting, and decorating. Remember to give yourself enough time and practice if you are new to baking wedding cakes!

Frosting the cake

Before you start frosting your wedding cake, it's important to have all your cakes baked, cooled, and wrapped. You can even flash freeze them for an hour before applying the crumb coat to ensure they are properly chilled.

To begin frosting, trim the brown edges off the sides, top, and bottom of your chilled cake layers. Then, using a serrated knife, tort your 2" cake layer in half lengthwise.

Place your first cake layer on a cardboard round, attaching it with a small amount of buttercream. Add buttercream on top of the cake layer and smooth it with an offset spatula. Your buttercream should be about 1/4" thick, and you should try to maintain an even thickness throughout. Repeat this process for the rest of your cake layers.

Next, cover your cake layer with a thin layer of buttercream for the crumb coat. This step is crucial as it seals in all the loose crumbs. Once you've completed the crumb coat, place the cake in the refrigerator to chill until firm, or leave it overnight.

After the crumb coat has set, apply the final layer of buttercream and store the cake tier in the refrigerator. Give yourself plenty of time for this step, especially if you're a beginner. Allow for up to an hour per tier to achieve a nice, smooth finish.

If you're making a fondant-covered cake, work with chilled cakes and work quickly to prevent excessive sweating on the fondant. Use fondant smoothers to eliminate wrinkles and imperfections. Always condition your fondant before rolling it out to reduce the chances of tearing and elephant skin.

You can choose to panel your cake or cover it in one piece of fondant, depending on your preference and design. Remember to store fondant-covered cakes in the refrigerator to keep them chilled.

Decorating the cake

Now that your cake is assembled, it's time to decorate! There are endless ways to decorate a wedding cake, but here are some tips and ideas to get you started:

• Buttercream flowers: Pipe buttercream flowers using different piping tips such as the #4 round, #366 small leaf tip, and #104 petal tip. You can make these ahead of time and store them in the freezer until you're ready to decorate the cake.
• Piped buttercream designs: Create piped buttercream swirls or other designs on the middle tier of your cake using a #4 round piping tip.
• Fresh flowers: Fresh flowers can be a beautiful addition to your wedding cake. However, make sure to use food-safe flowers and avoid any toxic varieties.
• Edible decorations: Consider using edible decorations such as sugar flowers, macarons, or fresh fruit like berries or sliced kiwis.
• Cake toppers: Add a personal touch with a custom cake topper. It could be something simple like the couple's initials or a more intricate design reflecting their hobbies or interests.
• Gold leaf: For a touch of elegance, apply gold leaf to your cake. It can be used to cover the entire cake or just accent certain areas.
• Dried flowers: Dried flowers can add a whimsical and romantic touch to your wedding cake. Edible dried flowers can be used to decorate the cake directly, or you can attach them to toothpicks and place them in the cake.
• Sugar pearls: Sugar pearls can be used to create a elegant border around each tier of the cake. They come in various sizes and colours to match any theme.
• Ribbon: A simple ribbon around each tier can add a touch of elegance. Choose a colour that complements your wedding colour palette.
• Fondant cut-outs: If you're covering your cake in fondant, you can cut out shapes or monograms to decorate the cake.

Remember, the key to decorating a wedding cake is to keep it simple yet elegant. You don't want to overwhelm the cake with too many decorations. Less is often more when it comes to wedding cakes.

Transporting the cake

Transporting a wedding cake can be a stressful experience, but with careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your cake arrives safely and securely at its destination. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for transporting a wedding cake:

Check with the Baker

If you are transporting a cake made by a professional baker, it is essential to get their transportation recommendations and specific requirements. Find out the measurements and weight of the cake to ensure your vehicle has enough room and plan for fridge space if necessary. Ask about refrigeration requirements, as some cakes need to be refrigerated until a few hours before serving.

Use a Cake Drum and Sturdy Cardboard Box

The easiest way to transport a wedding cake is to use a cake drum and a sturdy cardboard box. A cake drum is a heavy-duty cake board, typically at least 1/2 inch thick. The cake should be tiered on the cake drum, which is then placed inside a cardboard box of the same width. This will protect the cake during transport.

Reserve a Flat Place in Your Vehicle

Whether you're driving a short or long distance, the wedding cake needs to be placed on a stable and secure flat surface in your vehicle. Avoid placing it on laps or car seats, as they are unstable and slanted. The floor of your vehicle is usually the best option. If the floor is smooth, you can use a non-stick liner or a textured yoga mat to prevent the box from sliding.

Keep the Vehicle Cool

Even if the cake does not require refrigeration, it is crucial to maintain a cool temperature in your vehicle during transport. Keep the air conditioner on and avoid direct sunlight. For long trips or hot days, consider picking up the cake the day before the wedding and placing it in the fridge overnight to slowly thaw. Alternatively, you can create a makeshift cooler with a cardboard box and dry ice.

Drive Carefully with a Companion

It is recommended to have two people transport the wedding cake. Assign one person to sit next to the cake during the drive to hold it steady and navigate turns. Drive slowly and carefully, especially when approaching speed bumps or sharp turns.

Save the Cake Stand for the Venue

Unless you are very experienced, it is best to deliver the wedding cake without a cake stand. Place the cake and its board or drum directly on the stand at the venue. This reduces the risk of damage during transport.

Prepare an Emergency Cake Kit

It is always a good idea to be prepared for any minor touch-ups or repairs that may be needed. Pack a kit with extra frosting, icing spatulas, and other cake-decorating tools. This will allow you to fix any dents or imperfections that may occur during transport.

Communicate with the Venue

Contact the venue directly a week or a few days before the event to confirm the address, delivery times, parking zones, and any other relevant details. Brief the organiser on your anticipated delivery time, so they can have the cake table ready.

Arrive Early

Allow ample time for your journey and aim to deliver the cake at least two hours before the event starts. This will give you a buffer in case of unexpected delays. Most venues have walk-in cool rooms or air-conditioned spaces where you can store the cake before the event.

Set Up the Cake

When you arrive at the venue, conduct a brief preliminary scout. Ask for the event manager and introduce yourself. Confirm where they would like the cake to be positioned before unloading the cake and any equipment.

Document the Delivery

Before leaving the venue, take photos of the set-up cake as evidence of its safe delivery and condition. Additionally, provide the event manager with relevant information such as portion sizes, tier flavours, dietary specifications, and decorative elements that need to be removed. You can also request that they sign a form confirming the cake's condition and accepting responsibility for any damage caused by the venue or its staff.

Frequently asked questions