Preserving Your Wedding Cake: Tips For Long-Term Storage

The wedding cake is a key element of any wedding reception, and storing it properly is essential to ensure it stays fresh. While some couples opt to save the top tier of their wedding cake for their first anniversary, others prefer to eat it fresh or order a replica from their baker. Freezing is one of the best ways to preserve your wedding cake, and there are several steps to freeze it correctly, including removing decorations, chilling the cake, and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminium foil before placing it in an airtight container in the freezer.

Don't store wedding cakes in the fridge

Storing a wedding cake in the fridge is generally not recommended. While it may seem like a good idea to keep the cake fresh, the cold temperature can negatively impact the texture and taste of the cake.

The Science Behind It

The cool temperature in the fridge can speed up the staling process of the cake. This is due to a phenomenon called starch retrogradation, which occurs when the starch in the cake absorbs water and recrystallizes, leading to a drier and stiffer texture.

The Impact on Different Types of Cakes

For sponge cakes, the fridge is especially ill-advised. The cold temperature can cause the buttercream to harden, resulting in a dry and less flavourful cake.

Even if your wedding cake is not a sponge cake, the fridge can still impact its texture and taste. For example, if you have a cake with buttercream, whipped cream, or custard, it will only last about 4 days in the fridge due to the dairy spoiling quicker.

Alternatives to the Fridge

So, what should you do instead of storing your wedding cake in the fridge? Well, if you're planning on eating the cake within a few days, it's best to keep it at room temperature in a cosy spot, away from direct sunlight. If you want to save the top tier of your wedding cake for a special occasion, like your first anniversary, it's best to freeze it.

How to Store a Wedding Cake in the Freezer

To store a wedding cake in the freezer, first, allow any buttercream or fondant icing to harden. Then, remove any decorative ornaments and transfer the cake to a plastic board or container. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, creating a seal to prevent airflow. Finally, add a layer of aluminium foil for extra protection and place the wrapped cake in an airtight container.

How to store buttercream sponge cakes

Storing a wedding cake is important to ensure it stays fresh for the big day. Sponge cakes, in particular, require special attention as they are more delicate than other cakes. Here are some detailed tips on how to store buttercream sponge cakes:

Before the Wedding

If you are storing a buttercream sponge cake before the wedding, it is best to keep it in a cosy spot, away from direct sunlight. If the cake is going to be saved for several days before the wedding, it is best to keep it in its original packaging. This will ensure that the buttercream does not harden, which can lead to a dry cake.

After the Wedding

Once the cake has been cut, you can keep it fresh by storing it in an airtight container. If the cake has already been cut into slices, place each slice into individual airtight containers. This will prevent the cake from drying out.

Freezing the Cake

If you wish to store the top tier of the wedding cake for a future special occasion, such as the couple's first anniversary, freezing is a good option. Firstly, allow any buttercream icing to harden before wrapping the cake. This will make it easier to wrap and prevent a mess. Remove any decorative ornaments and transfer the cake to a plastic board if it is on cardboard, as cardboard can affect the taste of the cake.

Wrap the cake with several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminium foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped cake into a large plastic container and store it in the freezer. A sponge wedding cake can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.

Defrosting the Cake

To defrost the cake, remove it from the freezer and leave it in a cosy spot, out of direct sunlight, until it reaches room temperature. The buttercream will become soft to the touch when it is ready to be eaten. The cake can be left out for up to six hours, but it is best to check the centre of the cake, as this will take the longest to defrost.

How to keep a cut wedding cake fresh

To keep a cut wedding cake fresh, you'll need to store it in an airtight container. If the cake has already been cut into slices, place them into individual airtight containers. This will keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.

If you want to save the top tier of your wedding cake to eat on your first anniversary, there are several steps you should take to preserve it. Firstly, remove any flowers, cake toppers, or other decorations from the cake. Then, place the cake in the refrigerator to chill. This will take a few hours and will help to harden the icing, making it easier to wrap the cake without it sticking.

Once the icing has hardened, wrap the cake in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminium foil. Place the wrapped cake into an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring it is well-sealed to prevent air from getting in. Store the cake at the back of your freezer, where it will remain the coldest and least exposed to warm air when the freezer door is opened.

To defrost the cake, remove it from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before serving. This will help to prevent condensation from forming due to a quick defrost. Remove the cake from the packaging and allow it to sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

How to freeze a wedding cake

Freezing a wedding cake is a great way to preserve a memory from your special day. It can be enjoyed on your first anniversary, or even your one-and-a-half-year anniversary! However, it's important to know how to freeze your cake properly to avoid freezer burn and stale cake. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to freeze a wedding cake:

Check with your baker:

Some bakeries offer anniversary cakes, which are replicas of the top tier of your wedding cake. This option lets you skip the freezing process and enjoy a fresh cake on your anniversary. If you opt to freeze the original, your baker may have special instructions for your specific cake. For instance, buttercream and ganache freeze well, while meringue-based frosting doesn't hold up in the freezer.

Timing:

Ideally, you should freeze the top tier of your cake as close to your wedding day as possible. It should be prepped for freezing on the day of the wedding or the morning after.

Remove decorations:

Before freezing, remove any decorations from the top tier, such as real flowers, sugar flowers, or a cake topper.

Chill the cake:

Place the cake uncovered in the refrigerator or freezer for at least three hours or overnight. This will allow the icing to harden and prevent it from sticking to the plastic wrap.

Wrap the cake:

Remove the cake from the refrigerator or freezer and wrap it in several layers of plastic wrap. Ensure the plastic wrap hugs the cake to prevent air and moisture from getting in. Do not use aluminum foil, as this can cause freezer burn.

Seal the cake:

Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe airtight container or a plastic zipper bag. If using a bag, push out as much air as possible.

Store in the freezer:

Place the sealed cake in the back of your freezer, where it's coldest and least exposed to warm air when the door is opened.

Mark the cake:

If you plan to keep the cake in the freezer for a year, mark it with a ribbon or label so you don't accidentally throw it out.

Defrosting:

Take the cake out of the freezer 24 to 48 hours before you plan to eat it. Remove the plastic wrap and place the cake back in the airtight container or a cake carrier. Put it in the refrigerator to defrost. A few hours before serving, move the cake to the countertop to bring it to room temperature.

Freezing a wedding cake is a great way to preserve a delicious memory of your special day. By following these steps, you can enjoy a tasty treat on your first anniversary and relive the magic of your wedding!

How to defrost a frozen wedding cake

To defrost a wedding cake, it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure the cake thaws properly and remains fresh. Here is a detailed guide on how to defrost a frozen wedding cake:

Remove from Freezer:

Take the cake out of the freezer and place it in a suitable location to begin the defrosting process. It is recommended to keep the cake in its original packaging or wrapping until it has completely thawed to prevent it from drying out.

Thawing Process:

You have two options for thawing your wedding cake. You can either place it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature. If you choose to thaw it in the refrigerator, leave it there for a day or two, depending on the size and density of the cake. This will ensure a gradual thawing process. If you opt for room temperature thawing, avoid direct sunlight and find a cosy spot for the cake. This method may take a few hours, depending on the temperature of your environment.

Checking for Doneness:

To determine if your wedding cake is ready to be served, feel the buttercream in the centre of the cake. If it feels soft to the touch, your cake is ready to be enjoyed. The buttercream should have a similar texture to when the cake was fresh.

Serving:

Once the cake has thawed, it's time to serve and enjoy! Be aware that the texture and taste of the cake may have changed slightly, but it should still be safe to consume if properly stored and thawed.

Backup Plan:

If you are hesitant about the taste or quality of your frozen wedding cake, consider having a backup plan. Contact your local baker and ask them to create a small replica of your original wedding cake. This way, you can ensure a fresh and delicious cake on your anniversary while still partaking in the tradition of eating the frozen top tier.

Frequently asked questions