Transferring Your Wedding Cake: A Guide To Using Stands

Transferring a wedding cake from a turntable to a stand can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you've spent a lot of time decorating it. One of the most important steps is to ensure the cake has a solid foundation, such as a cardboard cake circle, to provide stability and make it easy to manoeuvre. It's also recommended to chill the cake before transferring it, as this will ensure that your frosting stays intact. Using tools such as a cake lifter or an angled spatula can also make the process easier and help you achieve a clean edge.

Use a cake lifter

Using a cake lifter is a great way to transfer a wedding cake to a stand without the stress. The cake lifter by Wilton is an excellent choice for this purpose, as it is about 8 inches wide and long, making it the perfect base for both 8-inch and 6-inch cakes. It is also very affordable at only $8.

To use the cake lifter effectively, follow these steps:

• Start by taping a cake board (the same size as your cake) to a larger cake board. The larger board will come in handy when moving the cake in and out of the freezer and for setting the crumb and final coat of frosting. Use a small piece of tape to hold the boards together, making it easy to separate them later.
• Before transferring the cake, ensure it is chilled. This helps keep your frosting intact during the move.
• Position the cake lifter almost covering the base of the cake, and use your other hand to support the cake for added stability.
• If needed, use an offset icing spatula to assist in sliding the cake off the cake lifter onto the stand.

By following these steps and using a cake lifter, you can confidently transfer your wedding cake to its stand, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.

Freeze the cake

Freezing your wedding cake is a great way to preserve it for your first anniversary or even the christening of your first child. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to freeze your wedding cake:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Before freezing, ensure that all ribbon, cake toppers, and any other large decorations are removed from the cake. Smaller decorations, especially those made from icing, can be left on. If your cake is on a cardboard base, transfer it onto a foil-covered cardboard or a plastic plate to prevent any cardboard smell or taste from seeping into the cake.

Step 2: Pre-Freeze

Immediately place the prepared cake into the freezer and leave it for about an hour. This will allow the icing to harden, preventing it from sticking to the wrapping material. If your cake has sugar flowers or other adornments, it is best to remove them before this step to avoid any interference with the freezing process.

Step 3: Wrap the Cake

Once the icing has hardened, remove the cake from the freezer. Wrap it loosely in several layers of plastic wrap, ensuring that the cake is thoroughly covered from top to bottom and on all sides. Do not use aluminium foil, as this could lead to freezer burn.

Step 4: Seal and Freeze

If you plan to store your cake in a box, wrap the box in several layers of plastic wrap as well. Alternatively, place the wrapped cake in an airtight container. Put the cake back into the freezer, and consider marking it with a ribbon or a label so you don't accidentally throw it out.

Step 5: Defrosting

When your special day arrives, take the cake out of the freezer and remove the wrapping. Allow the cake to thaw for 24 to 48 hours in the refrigerator, and then bring it to room temperature for about 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Tips for Freezing

The type of cake and icing you choose can impact how well it freezes. Heartier cakes like chocolate, carrot, hazelnut, and almond cakes stand up better to freezing for extended periods. Delicate cakes like angel food cake are more prone to becoming stale. Similarly, certain fillings like custard or fresh fruit may not maintain their original texture.

Fondant-covered cakes can be particularly tricky to defrost, as condensation can form and leave permanent marks on the icing. To avoid this, slowly defrost the cake in the fridge and then bring it to room temperature once it's almost completely thawed.

Remember, freezing a wedding cake for an extended period may impact its taste and texture. If you're concerned about this, consider ordering a replica cake for your special occasion.

Use an icing spatula for added assistance

Transferring a wedding cake to a stand can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you've never done it before. One of the essential tools you can use to make the task easier is an icing spatula. Here are some detailed tips on how to use an icing spatula for added assistance when transferring a wedding cake to a stand:

Choose the Right Spatula

Select an offset icing spatula, which is perfect for creating beautiful designs and is a handy tool for beginners. A simple icing spatula can also be used for this process.

Prepare the Cake

Before transferring the cake, it's crucial to ensure it has a solid foundation. Place the cake on a cardboard cake circle during the filling and stacking process to provide stability. Additionally, chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before the transfer. Chilling the cake solidifies the frosting, preventing fingerprints or damage to the finish during the transfer.

Heat the Spatula

To create a clean edge, heat your angled spatula by running it under hot water for a few seconds, then thoroughly drying it with a towel.

Release the Cake

With the warm spatula, run it along the bottom edge of the cake to release it from its current surface. Keep the spatula as close and parallel to the surface as possible to achieve a clean edge. Work your spatula gently underneath the cake to lift one side.

Move the Cake

With one hand, support the cake from below while using the spatula to lift the other side. Slowly move the cake to the desired stand. Once you've positioned the cake on the stand, gently lower it and pivot it into the desired spot. Use the spatula to adjust the cake's position, if needed, by sliding it back underneath and gently lowering the cake's edge.

Final Touches

If there are any imperfections or flared-out areas on the cake's finish, you can use the spatula to fix them. Simply reheat the spatula with the hot water method and run it along the bottom edge of the cake to create a flawless finish.

Using an icing spatula during the transfer process provides the necessary assistance to smoothly and confidently move your wedding cake to its stand. By following these steps, you can ensure that your cake remains intact and picture-perfect!

Prep the cake

Prepping your cake is essential to a successful transfer. Here are some detailed steps to help you prepare your wedding cake for the big move:

Build a Solid Foundation:

Start by stacking your cake layers on a cardboard cake circle. This step is crucial for creating a sturdy base and making it easier to lift and transfer your cake. The cardboard cake circle should be the same size as your cake.

Chill the Cake:

Before you attempt to move your cake, it's important to chill it. Place the decorated cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the cake will help set the frosting, buttercream, or icing, ensuring it stays intact during the transfer.

Clean Up the Cake Board:

If your cake board is messy with crumbs or excess frosting, you might want to consider transferring your cake to a clean board. To do this, chill your cake for easier handling, then carefully lift it off the original board and place it on a new, clean cake board of the same size.

Use a Cake Lifter:

Consider investing in a cake lifter, a handy tool that makes transferring cakes easier. Place the cake lifter under the cake board, ensuring it almost covers the entire base of the cake. Use your other hand to support the cake for added stability during the transfer.

Secure the Cake Board:

If you're using a larger cake board for easier handling, you can secure the cake board to the cake stand or box using a small piece of tape. This will keep the cake in place during transport and make removing the board easier at your final destination.

Practice Good Timing:

Time your cake transfer wisely. If you're moving the cake onto a stand at the event venue, make sure you do it as close to presentation time as possible to avoid any potential mishaps. If you're boxing the cake for transport, ensure it's securely packaged and handled with care during the journey.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a smooth and stress-free wedding cake transfer!

Heat the spatula

Heating the spatula is a great way to loosen the cake from the pan or board and ensure it doesn't stick. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Firstly, ensure you have the correct type of spatula. An offset icing spatula is ideal for this purpose. These are long, narrow metal spatulas that are perfect for lifting cakes and spreading batter. You can purchase these online or from specialty baking stores. It is also important to ensure your spatula is made of stainless steel, as this material conducts heat effectively and is durable.

Next, you will need to heat your spatula. This can be done by boiling water and then removing it from the heat. Carefully place the metal spatula into the hot water for a few seconds. Ensure you use an oven mitt or heat-resistant glove to protect your hand from the hot water.

Once the spatula is heated, carefully remove it from the water, allowing any excess water to drip off. You can now use the heated spatula to gently slide between the cake and the pan/board. The heat will have loosened any frosting or buttercream, making it easier to separate the cake without damaging it.

Gently slide the spatula all around the base of the cake, ensuring you go all the way to the edge. This will ensure the cake is fully loosened and will help you avoid any sticking or tearing when you transfer the cake to the stand.

Finally, once you have heated and loosened the cake, you are ready to transfer it to the stand. Place the stand next to the cake and slowly slide the spatula, with the cake on top, onto the stand. Ensure you hold the cake with one hand while sliding the spatula out with the other, for a smooth and controlled transfer.

Heating the spatula is a simple yet effective way to ensure a smooth transfer of your wedding cake to the stand, without any sticking or damage.

Frequently asked questions