Utilizing Wedding Cake Separators: A Guide To Tiered Confectionery

Wedding cake separators are an essential tool for creating a stunning, multi-tiered wedding cake. They are used to separate and support each layer of the cake, ensuring stability and peace of mind for the baker. There are various types of cake separators available, from simple plates and rods to more elaborate designs such as floating side bars, hoops, and birdcages. These separators come in different materials, including metal, acrylic, and wood, and can be customized to fit the theme of the wedding. When purchasing a wedding cake separator, it is important to consider the number of tiers in the cake and the weight that the separator can support.

Choosing the right cake separator for your wedding cake

Cake separators are an essential part of creating a stunning wedding cake. They provide support and stability, especially for tiered cakes, and can also add an elegant decorative touch. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right cake separator for your big day:

Type of Cake Separator:

• Plate and Dowel System: This is the most common type of cake separator, which consists of separator plates of various sizes that are stacked between the tiers of the cake. The plates are usually made of plastic, acrylic, or metal, and they have holes to insert dowel rods for added support. This system is ideal for creating multi-tiered cakes with a traditional look.
• Central Bar or Pillar System: This type of separator features a central bar or pillar that runs through the centre of the cake, providing stability. The cake tiers are placed on separate plates that are attached to the central bar. This system is perfect for creating a floating or anti-gravity cake effect.
• Hoop or Ring System: Hoop or ring-style separators are perfect for creating a modern and elegant look. They consist of a circular hoop or ring that surrounds each tier of the cake, providing support and creating a unique visual effect.

Material:

• Plastic: Plastic cake separators are lightweight, affordable, and easy to find. They are usually transparent or white, making them versatile for different cake designs.
• Acrylic: Acrylic cake separators offer a more polished and elegant look. They are often clear, allowing the cake to be the focal point while still providing stability. Acrylic separators can also be coloured or patterned to match your wedding theme.
• Metal: Metal cake separators, such as gold, silver, or copper, add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your wedding cake. They are sturdy and long-lasting, perfect for creating a grand display.

Design and Style:

• Round or Square: The most common shapes for cake separators are round and square, which complement the shape of the cake tiers.
• Floating or Anti-Gravity: For a unique and modern look, you can choose a floating or anti-gravity cake separator. These create the illusion that the cake is floating in mid-air, adding a touch of magic to your wedding cake display.
• Themed or Personalised: You can also find cake separators in various themes, such as birdcage, floral, or geometric designs. Personalised options, such as custom Mr. and Mrs. separators, are also available to add a special touch to your wedding cake.

When choosing a cake separator, it is important to consider the size and weight of your cake tiers. Ensure that the separator can bear the weight of the cake and provide adequate support. It is also essential to match the separator to the overall style and theme of your wedding, creating a cohesive and elegant display that your guests will admire.

Using a cake separator to create a floating effect

Step 1: Attaching the Separator

Firstly, prepare the cake by ensuring it is properly doweled if you are using a real cake. Then, choose an adhesive such as melted chocolate, royal icing, ganache, or buttercream to attach the separator. Smoothly spread the adhesive onto your cake. Line up the separator and gently press it into place. Allow it to set and ensure it is securely attached.

Step 2: Covering the Bottom Plate

Roll out a circle of sugar paste using corn flour or icing sugar. Make sure the circle is larger than the bottom plate. Cut the sugar paste into a rough circle, notching one edge for the Side Bar. Apply a small amount of vegetable shortening or cooled boiled water to the bottom plate to make it slightly sticky. Carefully lay the sugar paste over the plate, aligning the notch with the Side Bar. Smooth the paste onto the plate using a cake smoother, and trim off any excess with a knife.

Step 3: Covering the Sides and Blending Seams

Measure the circumference and height of your cake. Roll out a sugar paste panel that is slightly longer and deeper than the cake. Apply Trex or cooled boiled water to the cake sides to create a sticky surface. Attach the sugar paste panel using a piece of acetate for easy handling. Smooth the paste onto the cake, ensuring the seams meet at the back. Trim any excess paste at the top, and use a smoother to blend the seams. You can use either the water method or the paste method for blending. For the water method, simply use a clean finger to blend the seams with cooled boiled water. For the paste method, mix extra paste with water to create a spreadable consistency, and use a palette knife to fill in the gaps, smoothing with a flexible smoother.

Step 4: Attaching the Top Tier

Ensure that the separator is level before attaching the top tier. If you are using a real cake, you may need to adjust the level by pulling the top plate upwards and then placing the cake tier on top. This will allow the plate to naturally move into place. Secure the top tier by spreading a thin layer of royal icing, buttercream, ganache, or melted chocolate on the top plate, and then carefully lift and place the top tier, gently pressing it into place.

Step 5: Disguising the Separator

There are several methods to disguise the separator and create the floating illusion. You can tie a silk ribbon around the top tier, securing it with a glue dot at the bottom of the separator. Alternatively, use sugar or dried flowers secured with clear cable ties or food-safe wires. You can also use moulds or pipe details to add decorative elements that help hide the separator.

By following these steps and adding your creative flair, you can achieve a stunning floating effect for your wedding cake!

Combining a cake separator with a centre post

When combining a cake separator with a centre post, it is important to note that the centre post should be strong enough to support the weight of the cake tiers above. Here are some tips and instructions for combining a cake separator with a centre post:

• Choose the appropriate size and type of centre post for your cake. The post should be made from a strong material such as metal or plastic, and it should be cut to the correct height to fit your cake.
• Prepare your cake tiers by levelling and icing them. It is important that your cakes are sturdy and able to support the weight of the tiers above.
• Assemble the centre post according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may involve screwing or fitting the pieces together to create a stable structure.
• Place the centre post in the centre of your cake board or serving plate. Ensure it is secure and will not move or wobble.
• Slide the cake separator onto the centre post. The separator should have a hole in the middle that allows it to fit snugly around the post.
• Carefully place your first cake tier on top of the cake separator. Ensure it is centred and secure.
• If using multiple cake separators and tiers, repeat the previous step, sliding the next separator onto the centre post and then adding the next cake tier.
• Once all your cake tiers are in place, you can add any additional decorations or finishing touches to your cake.

Remember to always handle your cake with care, especially when transporting or displaying it. It is also important to use dowels inside your cake tiers for added support, even when using a centre post and separator.

Using a cake separator to create a chandelier effect

A chandelier cake is a style that can inspire awe in wedding guests. If you want to create a chandelier-like effect without hanging the cake, you can build a "floating" effect using a perspex cake separator hung with crystals. This creates a glamorous wedding cake display and is one of the signature styles of UK designer, Elizabeth's Cake Emporium.

To create a floating chandelier cake, you will need a cake separator, crystals, and a cake frame. You can purchase a hanging chandelier cake kit, which provides the necessary hardware to turn a standard support system into a hanging support system.

• Prepare the cake lace in two stages, ensuring the first coat does not dry too much before adding the second.
• Prepare the cake frame and thread wire through the first tier.
• Ganache the boards and the cakes.
• Smooth the cakes with hot water and cover them in sugarpaste.
• Airbrush the cakes to add a pearlised finish.
• Assemble the cake, paying close attention to the different parts and fixtures.
• Add the cake lace using piping gel to secure it in place.
• Finish the cake lace by adding ribbon or other decorations.

You may need a second pair of hands to help with assembling the cake, as it may be heavier than expected.

Choosing the right size of cake separator

• The standard practice is to choose a separator plate that is 2 inches larger than the cake it will support. For example, a 6-inch cake would typically use an 8-inch separator plate. This allows for enough space for the icing and border decorations without feeling cramped.
• However, the size of your border can also influence your choice. If you plan on having a more elaborate or wider border, you may want to consider a larger separator plate to accommodate it comfortably. For instance, if you're piping shells or other intricate designs, a 7-inch plate for a 6-inch cake might be preferable.
• On the other hand, if you prefer a more minimal border or no border at all, you could opt for a separator plate that is closer in size to the cake. Just ensure you have at least some space between the edge of the cake and the plate to avoid any issues with your decorations.
• When stacking multiple tiers, it's essential to use separator plates between each layer for support and stability. The plates should be selected based on the size of the cake tier they will be holding, following the guidelines mentioned above.
• Additionally, when using pillars or dowels for extra support, ensure that the separator plates have holes or can accommodate the dowels appropriately. This will provide a secure structure for your wedding cake.

Remember, the key is to strike a balance between having enough space for your decorations and maintaining a harmonious overall look. By considering the size of your cake tiers and the design elements you wish to incorporate, you can choose the right separator plate sizes to create a stunning and stable wedding cake.

Frequently asked questions