Storing Your Wedding Cake: Icing Intact And Freshness Secured

Storing a wedding cake can be a tricky process, especially if you want to preserve it for your first anniversary or your child's christening. The type of icing and fillings used in the cake will determine how best to store it. For example, a cake with cream cheese or whipped cream icing should be refrigerated, while a cake with buttercream or fondant icing can be stored at room temperature. If you're not planning on eating your wedding cake right away, you may want to consider freezing it.

How to store a wedding cake in the fridge

Storing a wedding cake in the fridge is not recommended, especially if it is a sponge cake. Sponge cakes are best kept in a nice cosy spot but not in direct sunlight if you are eating them within a few days of receiving them.

However, if your kitchen is particularly warm or if you’re not planning on serving the cake for a few days, you may want to consider refrigeration. If you do decide to store your wedding cake in the fridge, follow these steps:

• Let the cake cool completely before placing it in the fridge.
• Place the cake uncovered in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to harden the frosting a touch.
• Cover the cake loosely in plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odours. You can use toothpicks to keep the plastic wrap from touching the frosting.
• Once you’ve cut into the cake, cover the exposed part tightly with a separate piece of plastic wrap to retain moisture.
• Stored this way, frosted cake will last for about four to five days in the fridge.

If your wedding cake has cream cheese or whipped cream icing, it should be covered and placed in the refrigerator for up to three days.

How to store a buttercream wedding cake

Storing a buttercream wedding cake can be a tricky task, but it's definitely possible! Here are some tips to help you store your cake safely and effectively:

Storing Buttercream Wedding Cake Overnight:

Before we get into long-term storage, let's address the short-term scenario of storing your buttercream wedding cake overnight. This is a common concern, especially if you're planning to transport the cake to the venue the next day. Here are some suggestions:

• Refrigeration: While some sources suggest that buttercream cakes can be left out at room temperature, others recommend refrigerating overnight, especially if you want to make transportation easier. The cold temperature helps to stabilize the tiers and prevents sliding or shifting during transport.
• Boxing: To protect your cake from dust, accidents, or pests, it's recommended to store it in a box. A corrugated cardboard box that is the same size as the cake's base is ideal. You can cut one side of the box to create a "door" for sliding the cake in and then tape it shut.
• Wrapping: If you plan to refrigerate the cake, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap or a garbage bag to prevent it from absorbing any refrigerator odors or "funk."
• Transportation: When transporting the cake, place it in the boot of your car on a non-slip mat and surround it with padding for extra protection.

Long-Term Storage:

Now, let's discuss how to store a buttercream wedding cake for longer periods:

• Room Temperature Storage: Buttercream cakes can typically be stored at room temperature for several days. Make sure to keep them covered in a cake box or cake keeper to prevent drying and to protect them from dust or pests.
• Refrigeration: If you want to extend the freshness of your buttercream cake, you can store it in the refrigerator. This is especially important if your cake has perishable fillings or frostings, such as cream cheese buttercream or fruit fillings. The cake should be kept in a cake box or cake keeper to prevent drying and absorption of other food scents.
• Freezing: If you need to store your buttercream wedding cake for an extended period, freezing is an option. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and then place it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. However, freezing may affect the texture of certain types of icing, such as whipped cream icing.
• Defrosting: When defrosting a frozen cake, it's important to do it slowly to minimize condensation, which can cause marks on the icing. Defrost the cake in the refrigerator first and then bring it to room temperature before serving.

Remember, the key to successfully storing a buttercream wedding cake is to keep it covered, protected from pests and odors, and at a stable temperature. By following these tips, you can ensure your cake stays fresh and delicious!

How to keep a cut wedding cake fresh

Keeping a cut wedding cake fresh requires some extra care. Here are some tips to ensure your cake remains in the best condition:

Storing Cut Wedding Cake

If you have leftover wedding cake after the big day, it's important to store it properly to keep it fresh. If the cake is not already cut into wedges, place it in an airtight container. If it is already cut, put the wedges into individual airtight containers to prevent them from drying out. This will keep the cake fresh for a few days.

Freezing Wedding Cake

If you want to store your wedding cake for a longer period, freezing is a good option. It is a tradition to store the top tier of the wedding cake to enjoy on a special occasion, such as the couple's first anniversary or the christening of their first child. To freeze the cake, wrap it in a couple of layers of cling film and then place it in an airtight container. You can also use a freezer bag, ensuring it is sealed securely. Store the cake in the freezer for no longer than six months.

Defrosting Frozen Wedding Cake

When you are ready to enjoy your frozen wedding cake, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in a cool place, avoiding direct sunlight. The cake will be ready to eat when the buttercream is soft to touch. This may take several hours, and it is best to check the centre of the cake, as this will take the longest to defrost.

Other Tips for Storing Wedding Cake

• If you are storing a whole cake before it is cut, avoid placing it in the fridge, as this can make the cake dry and stale more quickly.
• If your wedding cake is made with buttercream, keep it in a cool spot, but not in direct sunlight, for a few days after receiving it.
• If you are saving the cake for a special occasion, keep it in its original packaging until shortly before it needs to be presented.
• If the cake has fresh cream, it should be stored in the fridge.

How to freeze a wedding cake

Storing a wedding cake in the freezer is a great way to preserve it for a special occasion. Here is a detailed guide on how to freeze a wedding cake:

Preparation

Before freezing the wedding cake, there are a few important steps to follow. Firstly, ensure that all ribbon, cake toppers, and any other large decorations are removed. Smaller decorations made from icing can usually be left on the cake. If the cake is on a cardboard base that is not foil-wrapped, transfer it to a foil-covered cardboard or a plastic plate to prevent any cardboard smell or taste from seeping into the cake.

Wrapping

The next step is to wrap the cake securely. Place the cake in the freezer for about an hour to allow the icing to harden. This will prevent the icing from sticking to the wrapping. After an hour, remove the cake from the freezer and wrap it tightly with two layers of cling film and, if necessary, a layer of tin foil. Ensure that the wrapping is airtight and covers the cake from top to bottom and on all sides.

Freezing

Once the cake is wrapped, place it in a clean freezer drawer until it is completely frozen. A sponge wedding cake can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. However, it is recommended to consume a sponge cake within one month to avoid any potential changes in texture. Fruit cakes can be frozen for longer periods, even over a year.

Defrosting

When you are ready to enjoy your frozen wedding cake, it is important to defrost it slowly to avoid condensation forming and leaving marks on the icing. Take the cake out of the freezer and place it in the fridge for a couple of hours, and then bring it to room temperature. This gradual process will help minimise any potential damage to the icing.

How to defrost a frozen wedding cake

If you've frozen your wedding cake, it's probably because you want to enjoy it on your first anniversary or at the christening of your first child, as tradition dictates. But now that the time has come, how do you defrost it?

The tricky part about defrosting a wedding cake is condensation. When the cake thaws, condensation can form and leave permanent marks on the icing. Fondant-covered cakes are especially prone to this, so the unfreezing process must be done slowly and carefully.

First, remove the cake from the freezer and place it in the fridge for at least a couple of hours. This will give the cake time to thaw gradually, reducing the risk of condensation. Once it's almost unfrozen, bring it to room temperature. If you're only serving small slices, any marks on the icing are unlikely to be noticed.

If you're short on time, you can cut off a chunk of the cake and put it in the fridge; it should still taste delicious. However, be warned that the moisture in the cake will have crystallised, so the cake will probably be both crumbly and soggy, and the frosting may be a bit slimy.

To avoid a soggy cake, some people recommend thawing the cake in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours and then giving it 2 to 3 hours to come to room temperature before serving. This will help ensure that the cake has time to thaw properly and reduce the risk of condensation.

Of course, the best way to ensure your wedding cake tastes delicious on your first anniversary is to order a fresh replica from your bakery. They may even include a one-year cake for free or at a discounted rate!

Frequently asked questions