Storing Your Wedding Cake: Overnight Preservation Tips

Storing a wedding cake overnight can be a tricky task, especially if you want to preserve it for a special occasion, like an anniversary. The first step is to let the cake chill and the icing harden. Then, you should wrap the cake in plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface. Next, wrap the cake in at least two layers of foil. Finally, place the cake in an airtight container and store it in the fridge or freezer. It's important to note that cakes with perishable ingredients, like cream cheese frosting or fresh fruit filling, should always be refrigerated.

Wrapping and storing at room temperature

Wrapping and storing your wedding cake at room temperature is a great way to keep it fresh overnight without drying it out. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Allow the Cake to Cool

Before you begin wrapping, let your freshly baked wedding cake cool down completely. This is important, as it will help prevent condensation from forming when the cake is in storage.

Step 2: Prepare the Icing

If your cake is decorated with buttercream icing, place it in the fridge for a while to let the icing harden. This will make it easier to wrap the cake without messing up the icing.

Step 3: Remove Decorative Ornaments

Take off any decorative additions like sugar flowers or other ornaments. You can set these aside in a dry, room-temperature location as a memento. Leaving them on the cake will create airflow issues when you wrap it, increasing the chances of spoilage.

Step 4: Wrap the Cake

First, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the cake, whether it's buttercream or fondant. Then, add at least two layers of foil. This double wrapping will shield your cake from anything entering the freezer and prevent freezer burn.

Step 5: Store in an Airtight Container

Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container, like a cake box or a large plastic container. This will help keep out any unwanted smells or flavours from other items in your freezer or pantry.

Step 6: Store at Room Temperature

Your wedding cake can be safely stored at room temperature for about four to five days. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Tips for Success:

• If you're using a refrigerator, chill the wrapped cake uncovered for 15-20 minutes to harden the frosting, then cover it loosely with plastic wrap.
• If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you're not serving the cake for several days, consider refrigerating it.
• If you're using a freezer, your wedding cake can be stored for up to three months.
• Oil-based cakes tend to last longer, so consider this when choosing your recipe or discussing options with your baker.
• If you need to transport the cake, consider refrigerating it first to make it more stable and less prone to dents or damage during transit.

Refrigerating frosted cakes

• If your cake is frosted with buttercream, it will last covered at room temperature for up to four days. However, it is best to refrigerate cakes with other types of frosting, such as cream cheese or ganache.
• If you are refrigerating a frosted cake, chill it uncovered for 15-20 minutes to harden the frosting a touch, then cover it 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.
• If you have a cake with buttercream frosting, it is recommended to wrap it in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature in a container.
• If your cake is frosted with cream cheese or ganache, make sure to cover it and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.
• If you are storing a cake with fondant, it is recommended to refrigerate it.
• For cakes with frosting, it is recommended to use the refrigerator.
• If you are storing a cake with Swiss meringue buttercream, it is recommended to refrigerate it.

Storing unfrosted cakes

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake with plastic wrap to create a protective barrier.
• Add another layer of foil or place the wrapped cake in an airtight container to prevent air from reaching the cake.
• Depending on the room temperature, you may be able to store the cake out of the refrigerator, but only if the room is cool.
• If you are unsure about the temperature, it is best to store the cake in the refrigerator.
• Unfrosted cakes can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days if fully covered or up to 4 days for cakes without frosting.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your unfrosted cakes remain fresh and tasty overnight.

Storing cupcakes

Cupcakes are best stored separately, as they will stay fresher this way. First, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap. Then, wrap them in foil in groups of four. Finally, place the cupcakes in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to two days or in the freezer for up to three months.

If you don't have an airtight container, you can store the cupcakes in the fridge, uncovered, for one day. Alternatively, you can wrap them in plastic wrap and then foil, and keep them at room temperature for three days, or in the refrigerator for one week.

If you are storing cupcakes in the freezer, it is best to use an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Storing cakes without plastic wrap or a container

If you're looking to store a wedding cake overnight without using plastic wrap or a container, there are a few methods you can try. The key is to prevent the cake from drying out and to maintain its freshness. Here are some options:

Foil

Wrapping your cake in aluminium foil can be an effective way to store it overnight. Foil creates a barrier that helps retain moisture by preventing air from reaching the cake. Make sure to cover the entire cake and seal the edges tightly to keep air out. This method is best used for unfrosted cakes, as foil can stick to certain types of frosting.

Cake Keeper or Bowl

If your wedding cake is frosted, a cake keeper or an overturned bowl can be used to protect it from dust, hair, and other contaminants. This method helps keep the cake fresh without the need for plastic wrap or a container.

Beeswax Wrap

Beeswax wraps are a sustainable and reusable alternative to plastic wrap. They are made from organic cotton coated with beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin, creating a slightly sticky surface that can be moulded around the cake for a tight seal. Beeswax wrap is breathable, helping to keep the cake moist while preventing odours from transferring to it.

Parchment Paper and Ribbon

Parchment paper and ribbon provide a simple and accessible alternative to plastic wrap. Cut a large sheet of parchment paper and gently place it over the cake, allowing it to drape down the sides. Secure the paper by tying a ribbon around the base of the cake, creating a seal. This method allows some airflow while protecting the cake from outside contaminants.

Glass or Ceramic Cake Dome

Using a glass or ceramic cake dome is an elegant and effective way to store your wedding cake overnight. These domes are designed to store and display cakes, providing a protective enclosure. They help retain moisture and freshness by creating a sealed environment around the cake.

Cake Carrier

If you have access to a cake carrier, it can be a practical solution for storing your wedding cake. Cake carriers are designed to securely hold and protect cakes during transportation. They often have sturdy handles and tight-fitting lids to keep the cake safe and fresh.

Remember, when storing your wedding cake overnight, it's important to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Proper sealing is also crucial to maintaining moisture and freshness.

Frequently asked questions