Stacking A Stunning Hexagon Wedding Cake: A Step-By-Step Guide

Stacking a hexagon wedding cake is similar to stacking a round or square cake. You will need a sturdy cake base, preferably a 1/2 foam core board, that is at least two inches larger than the largest cake tier. For the cake boards that go under each tier, you can use cardboard cake rounds or thinner (1/4) foam core boards. To stack the cake tiers, you will need dowels, such as plastic or wooden dowels, or bubble tea straws for lighter cakes. First, use an edible marker to mark the height of the first dowel inserted into the bottom tier, then pull it out, cut it, and use it as a template to cut the other dowels. Insert the dowels into the bottom tier, checking that they are level, and repeat this process for each additional tier. Finally, add a bit of melted candy melts or buttercream on top of each tier to help them stick together.

Choosing the right cake base

Material:

The cake base should be made from a sturdy material such as foam core board, MDF board, or a thick cardboard cake round. Foam core boards are a popular choice for their surprising sturdiness, especially the 1/2" thick variety. If your cake is particularly heavy, consider using MDF board, which is a wood composite board that can handle substantial weight. Avoid using premade cake drums or thin cake bases from hobby stores, as they may not provide sufficient support.

Size:

The cake base should be larger than the largest cake tier it will be holding. It is recommended to have a base that is at least two inches wider than the largest tier, but you can go even larger for added stability. This ensures that the cake tiers have a secure platform to rest on and helps create a beautiful and balanced overall presentation.

Preparation:

It is advisable to prepare the cake base in advance. Cut the foam core board to the desired size, allowing for the recommended width. You can then wrap it with fanci-foil, brush it with piping gel, or cover it with fondant to match the theme of your cake. Preparing the base board ahead of time ensures that it is ready when you need to assemble the cake tiers.

Stability:

To enhance the stability of your hexagon wedding cake, consider using a combination of cake boards and dowels. Place a cake board between each tier to provide additional support and make it easier to handle each layer. For smaller layers (6 inches or less), you can stack two cakes on one board. Use wooden or plastic dowels of varying sizes to stabilize the tiers and distribute the weight evenly.

With these considerations in mind, you can choose the right cake base for your hexagon wedding cake, ensuring both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Remember, when in doubt, opt for a sturdier base to avoid any potential collapse or shifting of your beautiful creation.

Using dowels for support

Choosing the Right Dowels:

Select food-safe dowels such as wooden or plastic dowels that are sturdy enough to support the weight of your cake tiers. Avoid using delicate dowels sold at craft shops, as they may not hold multiple tiers. Plastic dowels are a popular choice and can be easily found in the UK. Alternatively, you can use bubble straws, which are thicker than regular straws and provide more flexibility. Metal dowels are also an option, but they are less common and can be challenging to cut to size.

Preparing the Cakes:

Bake and cool your hexagon-shaped cakes. Ensure they are level by trimming the tops with a long serrated knife or a cake leveler if necessary. It is crucial to have a flat surface for stacking.

Marking and Cutting the Dowels:

For each tier of your hexagon wedding cake, measure the height of the cake and cut the dowels slightly shorter. This ensures that the dowels provide support without poking through the top of the cake. You will need four to six dowels for each tier, spaced evenly in a circle near the center. Mark the height on the dowels using an edible marker and cut them straight across at the marked line.

Stacking the Bottom Tiers:

Place the largest tier of your hexagon cake on a serving plate or board. Insert the central dowel through the center of the cake, stopping just above the top surface. This central dowel will run through all the tiers to provide stability. Then, insert the shorter dowels in a circle within the area where the next tier will sit.

Adding the Next Tier:

Carefully place the next tier of your hexagon cake on top of the dowels. Ensure it is centered and level. The dowels in the lower tier should provide adequate support for the weight of the upper tier.

Repeating for Additional Tiers:

If your hexagon wedding cake has more than two tiers, repeat the process for the second and subsequent tiers. Insert the central dowel through the center of the tier, followed by the shorter dowels in a circle. Each set of dowels should correspond to the tier above it.

Finalizing the Cake:

Once all the tiers are stacked, add any desired decorations or frosting to your hexagon wedding cake. If you need to transport the cake, use a cake box for support and handle it with care. Always keep the size and weight of your cakes in mind, and adjust the number and placement of dowels as needed.

Additional Tips:

• It is recommended to chill your cakes before stacking, especially if you are working in a hot and humid climate. Chilled cakes are easier to handle and less likely to shift during the stacking process.
• Practice patience and take your time when stacking and doweling your hexagon wedding cake. Each step should be done carefully and accurately to ensure a stable and secure final product.
• If you are unsure whether your cake requires doweling, it is generally better to err on the side of caution and add the dowels for added stability.

Stacking and filling the layers

To begin, it is important to have your hexagon-shaped cake layers ready. For each tier of your wedding cake, it is recommended to use three layers of cake with two layers of filling. This will give your tiers a taller, more professional look while also providing stability.

Set up your workspace by placing a cake board, the same size as your bottom tier, onto a turntable. This cake board will be the base for your bottom tier. Add a small amount of melted candy melts or buttercream to the centre of the board to help secure the first layer of cake.

Now, it's time to assemble the layers of your bottom tier. Place the first layer of cake onto the cake board and add your chosen filling on top. Repeat this step until you have added all three layers of cake and two layers of filling. Be careful not to add too much filling, as this can cause it to squish out and create a ridge or a buttercream blowout.

Once your layers are assembled, apply a thin crumb coat around the entire cake. This will help to seal in the crumbs and create a smooth surface for the final coating. After crumb coating, loosely wrap the cake in plastic wrap and set it aside to settle. This settling period allows the layers to calm down and any extra buttercream to be absorbed or squished out. It is best to let the cake settle at room temperature rather than chilling it, as chilling can harden the cake and icing, preventing them from settling properly.

Repeat the same process for your other cake tier(s). After filling and crumb coating each tier, set them aside to settle for several hours or overnight. This will help ensure your cake layers are stable before you move on to the final coating and stacking.

Now, it's time to add the final coating to your tiers. You can use various options such as buttercream, buttercream with fondant, ganache, ganache and fondant, or swiss meringue buttercream. For example, you can cover your tiers with white chocolate ganache and then cover them in fondant for a smooth finish.

Once your tiers are coated and settled, you can move on to stacking them. But before that, make sure your cake base is sturdy enough to hold the weight of your wedding cake. It should be at least two inches larger than the largest cake tier and made from sturdy materials like foam core or MDF board.

To stack your tiers, start by attaching the bottom tier to the cake base. You can use melted candy melts or hot glue to secure the cake board of the bottom tier to the base. Use an icing spatula to lift the bottom tier carefully and centre it on the base.

Now, you can add the second tier on top. If your cake is buttercream, it is recommended to chill it before stacking to make it firmer and easier to handle. Use the icing spatula to lift the second tier and place it on top of the bottom tier. Centre it carefully, and if desired, add a small amount of melted candy melts or buttercream on top of the bottom tier to help secure the second tier in place.

Repeat the stacking process for any additional tiers you may have. Remember to always check that your tiers are level before proceeding. If you have more than two tiers, it is best to add the dowels to each tier before stacking them. This will provide extra support and stability to your hexagon wedding cake.

Wrapping and settling the cake

Wrapping and settling a hexagon wedding cake is a crucial step in the cake-making process. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your cake is securely wrapped and settled:

Begin by placing the cake layers on a flat surface. Using a sturdy piece of cardboard or a cake board, cut it into a hexagon shape that matches the size of your cake layers. You can use a hexagon cake template or draw a hexagon shape by hand. Place each layer of the cake on a separate cardboard cutout, which will provide stability and make it easier to handle.

Wrapping the cake is essential, especially if you plan to transport it. Use a food-safe cling film or plastic wrap to cover the entire cake, making sure to wrap it tightly around the cake's edges. This will help hold the shape of the cake and prevent crumbs from falling off. After wrapping, it is advisable to let the cake settle for a few hours or even overnight. This will help the cake layers settle and stick together, reducing the risk of sliding or shifting during transport or cutting.

When settling the cake, choose a cool, dry place, ideally with a stable temperature. This will help the icing and fillings set properly. If possible, assemble the cake in the same environment where it will be displayed or served, reducing the risk of melting or condensation due to temperature changes.

Finally, use a cake box or a large container to cover the cake during the settling process. This will protect it from dust, insects, or other contaminants. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the height of the cake with some extra space, as the cake should not touch the lid.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your hexagon wedding cake is securely wrapped and settled, ready for transportation, display, and, ultimately, for the happy couple to cut the cake and share it with their guests!

Adding the final touches

Now that your hexagon wedding cake is stacked, it's time to add the final touches!

Firstly, you can add a border to each tier if you wish. This is a great way to cover up any imperfections and add a decorative touch to your cake. You can pipe buttercream or use fondant to create a variety of border designs, such as ruffles, rosettes, or a simple shell border.

Next, you can enhance the cake with fresh flowers, sugar flowers, or other decorations. Fresh flowers add a natural, romantic touch to your cake, while sugar flowers can be made in advance and offer a wide range of color options. If you're feeling creative, you can also use cake toppers, such as a personalized monogram or a rustic wooden topper.

Another idea is to add some height and drama to your cake by using cake separators or pillars. These can be simple or ornate, depending on your cake's overall design. They can also provide extra stability to your stacked cake.

Finally, don't forget to add any finishing touches to the cake board itself. You can cover the board with fancy foil, fondant, or even wrapping paper. This adds a professional touch to your cake and can tie in with your chosen color scheme or theme.

Remember, these final touches are all about personalizing your hexagon wedding cake and making it truly unique. So, feel free to experiment and have fun with the process!

Frequently asked questions