Franklin Dean
A wedding cake is a centrepiece at any wedding reception, so it's important to display it beautifully and securely. A cake stand is the perfect way to do this, and there are many options to choose from. You can opt for a single-tiered, 2-tier, or 3-tier stand, made from materials such as metal, glass, acrylic, or porcelain. When assembling a stand with multiple tiers, it's important to ensure that each tier is stable and securely fastened to the central pillar or rod. You can also make your own DIY cake stand using wooden circles, candle holders, or other materials. When transferring a cake onto a stand, it's recommended to use a cake board that's the same size as the cake, which can be glued to a cake drum for added stability.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of tiers | 1, 2, or 3 |
| Parts | Base, top plate(s), central rod or pillar, spacers, screws, washers |
| Steps | Place base on a stable, flat surface, place top plate(s) on base, secure with screws, washers, or other hardware |
| Additional steps for 2-tier stand | Place largest top plate on a flat surface, insert central pillar, place smaller top plate on top of base tier's pillar |
| Additional steps for 3-tier stand | Place second-largest top plate on base tier's pillar, place smallest plate on top of second-tier pillar |
| Additional steps for cardboard stand | Lay out cardboard stand pieces, assemble base and supporting columns, fold along pre-scored lines, place each tier on top of support columns, secure with adhesive or glue |
What You'll Learn
Use a cake board the same size as the cake
Using a cake board the same size as the cake is a great way to ensure stability and provide a sturdy base for your wedding cake. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use this method effectively:
Firstly, you'll need to acquire a cake board that is the same size as your wedding cake. This means that if you have a 6-inch cake, you should get a 6-inch cake board. It is important that the cake and board are the same size to ensure a seamless fit and stability.
Once you have the appropriately sized cake board, you can place your baked and decorated cake on top of it. This step can be done in advance, making it easier to transport and handle the cake. The cake board provides a stable base and prevents the cake from sliding or shifting during transportation.
When you are ready to present the cake, carefully slide the cake board with the cake on top of it onto the desired cake stand. You can use a small amount of icing or even royal icing, ganache, or buttercream as a form of "glue" between the cake board and the stand for added stability.
By using a cake board the same size as your cake, you create a uniform base that not only provides support but also ensures the cake is easy to handle and transport. This method is especially useful if you are not an experienced baker or if you are nervous about presenting the cake.
Additionally, you can decorate the cake board to match the overall theme or colour scheme of the wedding. For instance, you can cover the board with fondant or icing to match the cake, or even wrap a ribbon around the edge of the board for a more elegant presentation.
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Secure the cake board to the cake drum with glue or a hot glue gun
To secure a wedding cake to a stand, you can use a combination of a cake board, a cake drum, and a glue gun.
The first step is to secure the cake board to the cake drum. Take two cake boards of the same size as your cake tier and glue them together. For added stability, rotate one of the boards so that the cardboard "grain" is opposite that of the other board. You can use a hot glue gun to secure the two boards together.
Next, you will want to attach the cake drum to the actual cake. Apply a thin layer of shortening to the top of the cake board. Then, roll out some leftover fondant in your chosen colour. Place the fondant on the shortening-covered board and use an Exacto blade to cut off the excess.
Finally, you can attach the cake to the stand. If you are using a white or silver cake stand, cover the board in foil or fondant in a matching colour. You can also add a ribbon around the edge of the drum for a more professional and polished look. Secure the cake to the stand with a hot glue gun, ensuring that it will not move during transport or display.
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Decorate the cake drum
To decorate a cake drum for a wedding cake, you can follow these steps:
Firstly, decide on the size of your cake drum. The cake drum should be wider than the diameter of the bottom tier of your cake, so you have room to get your fingers under it for lifting. A common approach is to choose a cake drum that is one size larger than your cake. For example, if you are making a 6" cake, you would use an 8" cake drum.
Next, you can decorate the cake drum. One option is to ice the cake drum in the same manner as your cake. For instance, if your cake has a rustic buttercream finish, you can create the same effect on the cake drum. Alternatively, you can ice the cake drum smoothly. You can then add an ivory or white ribbon, glued to the edge of the drum, to hide the silver colour of the drum and add a decorative touch.
If you are using a white cake drum, you may decide that no further decoration is necessary. However, you could also consider adding a ribbon around the edge of the drum, particularly if this matches the colour of the wedding stand.
Finally, you can place your cake on the decorated cake drum. If you are using a separate cake board, you can attach this to the cake drum using royal icing, ganache, buttercream, or hot glue. You can then place your cake on the board, ensuring that the bottom of the cake is facing upwards to create a flat edge.
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Use a cake drum one size larger than the cake
Using a cake drum that is one size larger than your wedding cake is a great way to securely display your cake. This method is recommended by bakers and can be done by following these steps:
Firstly, purchase a cake drum that is one size larger than your cake. For example, if you have a 6-inch cake, you will need an 8-inch cake drum. You can find these drums at baking supply stores or online. They are sturdy and can handle the weight of large cakes.
Next, you can decorate the cake drum to match your cake. This step is optional, but it adds a nice touch to the overall presentation. You can ice the cake drum in the same manner as your cake, creating a rustic or smooth finish. If you wish to cover the drum in fondant, this is also an option. To hide the silver edge of the drum, glue a ribbon to the edge. This ribbon can be ivory or white, depending on the colour scheme of your cake and wedding.
After decorating the cake drum, you can attach the cake to it. Place a thin cake board, the same size as your cake, onto the drum. You can use royal icing, ganache, or buttercream as an adhesive. If you prefer a stronger hold, use a hot glue gun.
Finally, transport your cake on the drum, inside a cake box. When you arrive at the wedding venue, simply remove the cake and drum from the box and place them on the cake stand provided.
This method ensures your cake is secure and stable, and the decorated cake drum adds to the overall presentation.
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Transport the cake in a box or cake carrier
Transporting a wedding cake in a box or cake carrier is a great way to ensure the cake stays secure and intact during travel. Here are some detailed tips and instructions to help you with this process:
Firstly, it is important to choose an appropriately sized box or cake carrier. For a small, single-tier cake, a box that is slightly larger than the cake itself should suffice. If you're transporting a larger or multi-tiered cake, a cake carrier or a bigger box may be more suitable. Ensure that the box or carrier is sturdy and has enough room for the cake without being too spacious, as too much movement during transport could cause damage.
Before placing the cake inside, it's a good idea to line the box or carrier with a thin cake board that is the same size as the cake. This provides a stable base for the cake to sit on and makes it easier to handle. You can attach the cake to the board using a small amount of icing or glue to prevent it from sliding. If your cake has multiple tiers, you may need to use additional cake boards between the tiers for extra support.
When placing the cake in the box or carrier, be gentle and avoid any sudden movements that could cause the cake to shift or topple. If using a box, consider closing and sealing it with tape to ensure the cake stays in place. With a cake carrier, make sure the lid is secure and there is no risk of it opening accidentally during transport.
It is also important to handle the box or carrier with care during transport. Place it on a flat, stable surface in your vehicle and avoid stacking items on top of it. Drive carefully and try to minimise any sudden stops or sharp turns that could affect the stability of the cake.
Once you arrive at your destination, carefully remove the cake from the box or carrier by lifting it from the cake board. Place it on the desired cake stand, making any necessary adjustments to ensure the cake is centred and secure.
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