Transforming Sheet Cakes: Stunning Wedding Creations

Wedding cakes can be expensive, with the cost of a traditional tiered cake ranging from $300 to $700. A cost-effective alternative is to buy a sheet cake from a grocery store and decorate it to create a wedding cake. This option can save you over $700, and with some creativity, you can turn a simple sheet cake into a beautiful and elegant wedding cake. In this article, we will explore different ways to transform a store-bought sheet cake into a stunning wedding centerpiece. From adding fresh flowers and fruit to creating a tiered cake, we will guide you through the process of making a wedding cake on a budget.

Stacking and layering

Firstly, you'll need to decide on the size of your cake tiers. Using a large, sharp knife, carefully cut your sheet cake into the desired number of circles, depending on how many tiers you want. It's important to ensure that your cuts are straight and even, as this will affect the stability of your stacked cake. Once you have your cake circles, you can trim them to create a more polished look and remove any excess frosting that might make the layers slide.

Next, you'll want to add a layer of frosting or filling between each cake circle. This will act as a glue to hold your tiers together, so be generous! You can use store-bought frosting or make your own. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even add a layer of fruit or cream for a delicious surprise. Strawberries, as used by @theicingartist on TikTok, are a great choice for a summer wedding.

After filling, it's time to stack! Place your largest tier on the serving plate or stand, then carefully add each subsequent layer on top, checking that they are centred and even. To add extra stability, consider using straws or wooden dowels cut to the height of each tier. Push them into the centre of each layer before adding the next cake circle.

Finally, give your cake a crumb coat—a thin layer of frosting that seals in any crumbs and creates a smooth surface for your final decoration. Allow this to set before adding your final coat of frosting and any additional decorations, such as flowers, fruit, or gold leaf.

With these steps, you'll have a beautifully stacked and layered wedding cake that will impress your guests and save you money!

Decorating with fresh flowers

Fresh flowers are a beautiful way to decorate a wedding cake. They add a natural beauty and elevate the entire design. Here is a step-by-step guide to decorating a wedding cake with fresh flowers:

Selecting the Right Flowers

Consider your wedding theme and colour scheme. Choose flowers that harmonise with the overall atmosphere, taking inspiration from the season, the bridal bouquet, or the venue's surroundings. Decide whether to use edible or non-edible flowers. Carnations, mums, roses, and spray roses are good choices for non-toxic flowers. In the summer, there are more locally available edible flowers like pansies, lilac, and lavender. Avoid flowers like peonies, ranunculus, and eucalyptus, as parts of them can cause stomach upset.

Preparing the Flowers

Clean and trim the flowers. Remove any dirt or insects by gently rinsing them under cold water, then pat them dry with a soft cloth. Trim the stems at an angle, leaving enough length to secure them to the cake. Remove any damaged petals or leaves. Wrap the stems with floral tape to keep them in place and prevent moisture from seeping into the cake. For an extra layer of protection, wrap the base of each stem with plastic wrap to prevent any potential contamination.

Designing the Cake Decoration

Visualise the cake design. Consider the cake's shape, size, and any existing decorations. Sketch out a plan for flower placement to create a harmonious and balanced look. There are many ways to arrange flowers, from a cascading effect on tiered cakes to a simple statement with a single large flower or a delicate floral crown.

Attaching Flowers to the Cake

Use cake skewers or toothpicks to secure the flowers to the cake. Insert them into the stems of the flowers, then push them carefully into the cake. This method works well for larger flowers. Alternatively, use buttercream or royal icing as an adhesive. Apply a small amount of icing to the back of the flower before pressing it onto the cake. This technique is suitable for smaller blooms and delicate arrangements. Ensure the flowers are evenly distributed and that the cake remains stable.

Adding the Finishing Touches

Enhance the cake with additional embellishments like ribbons or edible pearls. Create a cohesive look for the wedding dessert table by incorporating matching flowers or scattering loose petals around the cake's base. Double-check the placement of each flower, fix any imperfections, and ensure the cake is displayed in a well-lit and attractive setting for the perfect photo opportunity.

Using fondant

Fondant is a great way to cover up a store-bought sheet cake and turn it into a wedding cake. It can be purchased from craft stores or made from scratch. Here is a recipe for marshmallow fondant, which is an improvement on boxed fondant in terms of taste and usability:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds powdered sugar, sifted, divided (about 8 cups)
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 1 16-ounce bag marshmallows
• 2 tablespoons of water, warm
• 20 ounces fondant, store-bought

Instructions:

• Combine the vegetable shortening and marshmallows in a bowl and heat until the marshmallows are fully melted.
• Add the water to the marshmallow mixture and pour it into the bowl with the vegetable shortening.
• Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, start adding in half of the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Repeat until you've used half of the powdered sugar.
• Place the marshmallow mixture in a large bowl with the remaining powdered sugar.
• Softening the store-bought fondant and adding it to the marshmallow mixture.
• Knead everything together until it is mostly incorporated.
• Dust your work surface with powdered sugar and transfer the fondant.
• Knead and pull the fondant like taffy until it is stretchy and smooth.
• If there are rough spots or tears, heat the fondant in the microwave for 30-40 seconds.
• Continue kneading and pulling until the fondant stretches without breaking.

Once you have made your fondant, you can start assembling your wedding cake:

• Prepare your sheet cake by filling and crumb-coating it with frosting. Chill the cake before and after crumb coating.
• Roll out the fondant to about 1/8 inch thick, ensuring it is larger than the tier you want to cover.
• Carefully transfer the fondant to the tier, draping it over and smoothing it down the sides.
• Trim off the excess fondant, leaving a 1-inch overhang.
• Turn the tier upside down and press down the overhang to create an even edge.
• Repeat the process for any additional tiers.
• Decorate the tiers as desired. Fresh flowers, ribbons, and gold leaf are all great options.

Adding fresh fruit

Fresh fruit is a great way to add colour and flavour to a wedding cake. Here are some tips on how to turn a sheet cake into a wedding cake using fresh fruit:

Choosing your fruit

The type of fruit you choose will depend on the overall look and theme of your wedding. Consider the colour, size, and texture of the fruit when making your selection. Some popular options for wedding cakes include berries, stone fruits (such as plums, peaches, and apricots), and tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples. You can also use a combination of different fruits to create a colourful and varied display.

Preparing the fruit

To ensure your fruit looks and tastes its best, make sure to wash and dry it thoroughly before adding it to the cake. If you're using fruit that discolours quickly, such as apples or bananas, you can coat the fruit with a light layer of lemon juice to prevent browning. You may also want to consider cutting the fruit into slices or smaller pieces to make it easier to arrange on the cake.

Adding the fruit to the cake

There are several ways to add fresh fruit to your sheet cake:

• Create a fruit topping: Arrange the fruit on top of the cake in a visually appealing way. You can pile the fruit in the centre or scatter it across the cake.
• Use fruit as a filling: If you're making a layered sheet cake, you can add fruit between the layers. This could be in the form of a fruit compote, fresh fruit slices, or even a layer of fruit-flavoured cream or mousse.
• Decorate the sides of the cake: You can also use fruit to decorate the sides of your cake. Carefully place fruit slices or whole berries against the sides of the cake for a unique look.

Combining fruit with other decorations

Fruit can be combined with other decorations to create a truly stunning wedding cake. Here are some ideas:

• Flowers: Fresh flowers, such as peonies, roses, or baby's breath, can be used alongside fruit for a romantic and rustic look.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, mint, or lavender to your cake for a unique flavour and aroma.
• Edible glitter or paint: For a glamorous touch, consider painting your fruit with edible glitter or paint. This works especially well with pears or apples.
• Dried fruit: You can also incorporate dried fruit, such as raisins or apricots, into your cake batter or decoration for added texture and flavour.

Remember to keep your cake refrigerated if it has fresh fruit, especially in warm weather, to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.

Creating a 'show cake'

Creating a "Show Cake"

A "show cake" is a small cake that is put on display at a wedding. It is usually accompanied by a sheet cake, which is used to serve guests. This can be a great way to save money on your wedding, as a traditional tiered wedding cake can be very expensive.

Choose a Base Cake

Start by choosing a plain sheet cake from a grocery store. Most grocery stores bake their cakes and make their frosting in-store, so you can be sure that the cake will be fresh and tasty. It's a good idea to order your plain cake at least two weeks in advance to ensure that it is available for your big day.

Decorate the Cake

There are endless possibilities for decorating your "show cake". You can use fondant, fresh flowers, rock candy, fresh fruit, or herbs. For a romantic and rustic look, consider edging the cake with fresh thyme, rosemary, and lavender, and topping it with apricots, peaches, strawberries, and raspberries. For a simple and modern look, use fondant to create heart shapes that overlap slightly, writing the bride and groom's initials on two hearts to top the cake.

Add a Topper

Finish off your "show cake" with a gorgeous wedding cake topper. This could be something simple and elegant, or something more fun and whimsical, depending on your style.

Serve the Sheet Cake

In addition to your "show cake", have a sheet cake ready to serve to your guests. This will ensure that everyone has enough cake and will save you money compared to serving a traditional tiered wedding cake.

Creating a "show cake" is a fun and budget-friendly way to have a beautiful and delicious wedding cake. With a bit of creativity, you can transform a simple grocery store sheet cake into a stunning display that your guests will love.

Frequently asked questions