White Birch Wedding Cake: A Step-By-Step Guide

A birch tree wedding cake is a popular choice for couples seeking a whimsical, natural look for their wedding dessert. The design mimics the appearance of a birch tree's distinctive white bark, often complemented by delicate details like sugar flowers, berries, and foliage. This cake is generally simple to make and has an elegant, rustic woodland-inspired look. To make a white birch wedding cake, you will need the following ingredients: 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 1/2 cups of white sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 packets of softened cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups of confectioners' sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips, and 4 cups of heavy whipping cream. You will also need buttercream or frosting in various shades of brown and white to create the birch tree effect. The cake itself will serve as the foundation for your decorative elements, so it's important to consider size, flavor, and shape.

How to Make a White Birch Wedding Cake

Using buttercream to create the birch effect

Step 1: Crumb Coat the Cake

Place the cake on a turntable and add a thin layer of white buttercream as a crumb coat. This base layer will catch any crumbs and ensure a smooth finish for your design.

Step 2: Prepare the Frostings

To create the different shades of brown needed for the birch effect, you can use chocolate buttercream or add brown food colouring to your buttercream. For dark brown, add approximately 20 drops of food colouring to one cup of buttercream. For medium brown, add five drops to half a cup, and for light brown, add three drops to one cup. Adjust the shades as needed to match the colour of birch bark.

Step 3: Frost the Top of the Cake

Fill two piping bags with light brown and medium brown frosting. Pipe a circle in the middle with medium brown buttercream, then pipe alternating rings of light and medium brown buttercream on top.

Step 4: Smooth Out the Rings

Use a straight icing spatula to gently smooth out the rings. Position the tip of the spatula in the centre and tilt the blade upwards. Place the flat edge of the spatula on the buttercream and slowly spin the turntable to smooth the lines.

Step 5: Apply the White Buttercream

Apply a thick layer of white buttercream to the sides of the cake, being careful not to let it go above the top. It's okay if some of the white buttercream pokes up over the top.

Step 6: Smooth the Cake

Use your straight icing spatula again to smooth the sides and top of the cake, ensuring an even and seamless finish.

Step 7: Pipe Dark Brown Buttercream

Pipe thin, horizontal streaks of dark brown buttercream around the sides of the cake. These streaks should be random and organic, mimicking the natural pattern of birch bark.

Step 8: Smooth the Frosting

Use a flat edge to smear and blend the brown lines on the cake. Repeat this process until you are happy with the birch effect and the overall appearance of the cake.

Step 9: Add Finishing Touches

Use the back end of a paintbrush to create small holes in the white layer of frosting, if desired. You can also add buttercream leaves, carve initials, or add other decorations to personalise your cake.

Your white birch wedding cake is now complete and ready to be displayed and enjoyed at your wedding celebration!

Using fondant to create the birch effect

To add even more depth and texture to your birch tree design, you can gently carve lines into the fondant with a sculpting tool. This extra step will give your cake a more realistic and authentic look. You can also use an airbrush to achieve the birch tree effect. Start by airbrushing the entire cake with a light grey base layer. Then, use stencils or freehand techniques to add black and dark brown accents in an irregular pattern, mimicking the appearance of authentic birch trees.

Fondant is a great way to create a smooth and elegant finish to your wedding cake, and with some practice, you can easily achieve the stunning birch tree look you desire.

Choosing the right cake

Size

It is important to consider the number of guests you'll be serving when choosing the size of your cake. Opting for a slightly larger cake is advisable to ensure there is enough for everyone. Taller tiers can also add drama and elegance to your birch tree design.

Flavor

When it comes to flavour, choose something that you and your partner love. Whether it's a classic like vanilla or chocolate, or something more unique like red velvet or lemon raspberry, select a flavour that reflects your personalities and preferences.

Shape

The shape of your cake can also enhance the overall aesthetic of your birch tree design. Round tiers are classic and versatile, while square or hexagonal shapes can add a modern twist. Consider how different shapes will complement the birch tree decorations you plan to include.

Base Cake

The base cake will be the foundation for your decorative elements, so it's important to choose a flavour that pairs well with the buttercream or fondant you'll be using to create the birch tree design. A simple and versatile option is a classic vanilla or chocolate cake.

Number of Tiers

The number of tiers you choose will depend on the size of your wedding and the impact you want to make. A single-tier cake can be elegant and simple, while a multi-tiered cake will create a grand and impressive display.

Personalisation

You can also consider adding personal touches to your cake. This could include incorporating your favourite flavours, colours, or even a monogram topper with your initials. Fresh flowers or sugar flowers that match your wedding colour scheme can also be a beautiful addition.

By carefully considering these factors, you'll be able to choose the right cake that not only tastes delicious but also serves as a stunning visual centerpiece for your wedding reception.

Adding final touches

Once you have the birch tree effect on your cake, you can add some final touches to make it truly stand out. If you want to add some depth and dimension to your cake, consider using an airbrush to achieve this look. Start by airbrushing the entire cake with a light grey base layer. Then, use black and dark brown colours to add irregular patterns and mimic the appearance of authentic birch trees.

You can also add edible elements such as sugar flowers and berries to your cake. Sugar flowers such as roses, peonies, and hydrangeas can complement the rustic yet elegant look of a birch tree design. Opt for white or ivory flowers for a timeless feel, or choose blooms that match the colour scheme of your wedding. You can also add fresh or sugar-coated berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries to create a whimsical and organic feel.

If you want to add some non-edible decorations, you can use ribbons that mimic the appearance of birch bark. Wrap these carefully around the tiers of the cake to create the black and white patterning of birch trees. You can also incorporate twigs and faux foliage to further enhance the birch tree illusion. Strategically place small twigs between tiers or use them as accents around the base of the cake. Nestle some faux foliage, such as silk or plastic leaves, among the tiers to add depth and dimension.

Finally, consider adding some cake toppers or personalised accents to express your individuality as a couple. A custom monogram topper or fresh flowers intertwined with twigs and foliage can truly elevate the overall look of your birch tree wedding cake.

Transporting and assembling the cake

Transporting and assembling a white birch wedding cake requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some detailed steps to ensure your cake reaches the venue safely and is assembled flawlessly:

Firstly, consider the size and weight of the cake, as well as the number of tiers and any additional decorations. It is crucial to have a sturdy base or cake stand to support the cake during transportation and assembly. If possible, assemble the cake on-site to minimise the risk of damage during transit. Communicate with the venue staff about any special requirements, such as access points and refrigeration options, and inform them of any specific instructions for the cake's placement.

Appointing a trusted individual to oversee the entire process is essential. Whether it's a member of the bakery staff, a friend, or a family member, having someone dedicated ensures that everything runs smoothly.

When transporting the cake, carefully package it to prevent damage and use a suitable vehicle with a flat, level surface. Drive slowly and avoid sharp turns or sudden movements that could cause the cake to shift or tilt.

Upon arrival at the venue, find a stable surface near the designated display area to unpack and assemble the cake. If the cake has been pre-assembled, handle it with extreme care, carrying it with both hands and slowly walking towards the display table.

If the cake is delivered in separate tiers, carefully stack them, ensuring each tier is centred and securely attached to the one below. Use a spatula or a cake leveller to add a thin layer of frosting between the tiers for stability and a seamless look.

Once the cake is assembled, carefully add any final touches, such as sugar flowers, fondant leaves, or other decorations. Ensure the cake is level and secure, especially if it has multiple tiers.

Finally, conduct a final inspection to ensure the cake meets your expectations and has not been damaged during transport or assembly. By following these steps, your white birch wedding cake will be a stunning focal point at your wedding celebration.

Frequently asked questions