Storing Buttercream Wedding Cakes: Tips And Tricks

Storing a buttercream wedding cake can be a tricky task, especially if you want to preserve its taste and texture. Here are some tips to help you store your cake effectively. Firstly, it is important to note that most cakes, including those with buttercream frosting, do not need to be refrigerated. In fact, putting them in the fridge can make them stale more quickly. However, if your cake has perishable ingredients like fresh fruit or cheese-based frosting, it should be refrigerated. If you do choose to store your cake at room temperature, make sure it is covered to avoid dust and accidents. You can use a cake dome, a large bowl, or plastic wrap to cover it. If you are travelling with your cake, it is recommended to refrigerate it beforehand to make it more stable and less prone to damage during transport. Additionally, it is important to keep your cake away from strong-smelling foods, as buttercream can absorb these odours.

Room temperature storage

When storing a buttercream wedding cake at room temperature, it is crucial to cover the cake fully to prevent it from drying out. Plastic wrap can be used to cover all areas of the cake, and then it can be placed in an airtight container. Additionally, it is recommended to keep the cake in a cool room, away from strong-smelling foods like garlic and onions, to prevent the buttercream from absorbing unwanted scents.

If the buttercream wedding cake includes perishable fillings or frostings, such as cream cheese or ganache, it is best to store it in the refrigerator. However, if the cake is made with American buttercream and does not contain perishable ingredients, room temperature storage is a safe option for a few days.

It is worth noting that room temperature storage times may vary depending on the specific recipe and the temperature of the environment. For example, if the room is particularly warm, the cake should be stored for a shorter period at room temperature. In summary, while room temperature storage is possible for buttercream wedding cakes, it is important to consider the ingredients used, the room temperature, and the duration of storage to ensure food safety and maintain the cake's freshness and quality.

Refrigeration

If you have decorated your cake with fondant, refrigeration can cause condensation, which can lead to fondant bubbles. If you do choose to refrigerate a fondant-covered cake, be sure to keep it in a box and do not touch the cake until the condensation has evaporated.

If you are travelling with your cake, refrigeration is a great way to firm it up and make it more stable. This will prevent the tiers from shifting or sliding and reduce the risk of dents and marks. It is also a good idea to transport your cake in a box with padding to provide extra protection.

When it comes to the type of buttercream, American buttercream can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Other types of buttercream, such as Swiss meringue buttercream or cream cheese buttercream, should be stored in the fridge if they contain perishable ingredients. These buttercreams will last in the fridge for about 5 days.

It is important to note that cakes with perishable fillings or frostings, such as fresh fruit or whipped cream, should be refrigerated. If your cake has been decorated with dark-coloured buttercream, it may be best to avoid refrigeration as it can cause some discolouration.

Freezing

Firstly, it is important to note that buttercream freezes extremely well and can last in the freezer for up to three months. However, it is crucial to properly prepare and package the cake before freezing to ensure optimal freshness and taste.

Before freezing, make sure your cake is completely cooled. Then, wrap the cake tightly in two layers of plastic wrap, ensuring that it is well covered. This will help prevent freezer burn and protect the cake from absorbing any unwanted freezer odours. You can also add an additional layer of aluminium foil on top of the plastic wrap for extra protection.

When it comes to the buttercream frosting, it is best to store it in an airtight container or wrap smaller mounds of buttercream in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. This will ensure that the buttercream stays fresh and doesn't absorb any strong-smelling foods that may be in your freezer.

When you are ready to use your frozen cake, make sure to give it plenty of time to defrost. Simply leave it at room temperature and let it thaw naturally. It is important not to rush the defrosting process to maintain the quality of your cake. Once it has thawed, give the buttercream a good mix before using it.

Additionally, it is important to label your container with the date you made the buttercream and the date by which you need to use it. This will help ensure that you are consuming the cake within its freshness period.

Transporting the cake

Transporting a wedding cake is a delicate process that requires careful planning and execution. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your buttercream wedding cake arrives safely and in perfect condition:

Vehicle Preparation:

• Choose the right vehicle: Opt for a car with a spacious and flat loading area, such as an SUV or a van.
• Pre-cool the vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is cooled with air conditioning before placing the cake inside, especially in warm weather.
• Shield from direct sunlight: Use sun shields or park in shaded areas to prevent direct sunlight from melting the buttercream.

Packaging and Placement:

• Select appropriate packaging: Place the cake, whether assembled or in separate tiers, in sturdy cake boxes designed for travel. Each tier should have a box that matches its size to prevent movement.
• Chill the cake: Before placing it in the box, thoroughly chill the cake. A cold cake is firmer and less prone to damage during transport.
• Use non-slip mats: Place non-slip mats inside the vehicle to prevent the cake boxes from sliding, especially during turns or sudden stops.
• Create a level base: If the vehicle surface isn't naturally flat, use firm materials to create a level base for the cake to rest on, ensuring stability during transport.
• Position the cake: Place the cake in the centre of the vehicle, where movement is minimised. If travelling alone, consider placing it in the trunk or on the floor in front of the passenger seat, ensuring it's secured and stable.

Driving and Delivery:

• Drive smoothly: Avoid sudden accelerations or brakes during the journey to reduce the risk of cake damage.
• Have an assistant: If possible, have someone monitor and support the cake during transport, especially through less stable road conditions or longer journeys.
• Plan your route: Be aware of the environmental conditions and choose a route that avoids rough terrain, potholes, and areas prone to traffic jams. Use real-time traffic updates to navigate smoothly.
• Unload with care: When arriving at the venue, use a wheeled cart to transport the cake from the car to the setup area, minimising handling and shaking.

Storing unfrosted cakes

If you need to store an unfrosted cake for longer than a week, you can freeze it. To freeze an unfrosted cake, double-wrap each layer in plastic wrap, then put it into a freezer-safe bag or wrap it with aluminum foil. Unfrosted cakes can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To defrost, leave the cake wrapped and place it in the fridge for at least eight hours or overnight, so that it can defrost with minimal condensation.

Frequently asked questions