Creating A Four-Tier Wedding Cake: A Step-By-Step Guide

In The Sims 4, wedding cakes can be purchased or baked. If you want to buy a wedding cake, you can do so through the computer, where all 56 wedding cakes are available to browse and purchase. The cake will appear in your Sim's inventory, and if your Sim is engaged, they can select Choose as Wedding Cake. However, some players have reported issues with the cake not appearing at the wedding reception or ceremony after doing this. To avoid this, it is recommended to purchase the cake right before the wedding and bring it to the venue yourself.

If you want to bake a wedding cake, your Sim must first unlock the Gourmet Cooking skill by reaching level 5 of the Cooking skill. Once this is achieved, a new interaction called Cook Wedding Cake will become available on the fridge. The skill level required to make each of the 9 cake styles varies, with some requiring a higher level of Gourmet Cooking skill.

To prevent a wedding cake from spoiling or being eaten before the ceremony, some players suggest editing the wedding venue to include a refrigerator to store the cake. Others recommend scheduling the wedding in advance and then selecting the cake, or bringing the cake to the venue and setting it up there.

Choosing a cake style and recipe

Cake Style

Firstly, consider your wedding theme. If your wedding is traditional and elegant, you may opt for a classic cake with round, stacked tiers and a white base with beautiful icing and fresh flowers. For a contemporary wedding, you could choose unusually shaped tiers and coloured icing. A rustic or summer wedding might call for a semi-naked cake.

Incorporate your colour scheme by opting for a white cake decorated with flowers in your chosen shades, or go for coloured icing. Dark colours like black can be stunning for an autumn or winter wedding.

You can also be inspired by fashion. Details from your wedding dress, such as lace, embellishment, ruffles or bows, can be replicated in the cake design.

Cake Recipe

When it comes to the cake recipe, there are several options to consider. Here are some popular choices:

• Fondant: Fondant is a dough made mainly of icing sugar, and sometimes marshmallows. It is rolled out and used to cover the cake. Fondant is very popular as it looks neat and keeps the cake fresh for longer. It is a good option for a summer wedding as it won't melt. However, some people may not like the taste, and it is the most suitable option for an opulent wedding cake.
• Buttercream Icing: This is a common choice, with the most popular type being Continental or American Buttercream, made of icing sugar and softened butter. Swiss Meringue Buttercream is another option, which has a light and indulgent texture and melts in your mouth. Buttercream is a good choice if you want to add flowers or foliage to your cake. However, it may not be ideal for a hot summer wedding as it may melt.
• Chocolate Ganache: Chocolate ganache is a smooth and indulgent filling made from chocolate. It offers many styling options, such as a sharp and smooth finish, a textured finish, or a drip-style cake. White chocolate ganache can be tinted with food colouring to create an ombre or watercolour effect. However, it needs to be kept in a cool room as it may melt.
• Naked/Semi-Naked Cakes: A naked cake has no icing on the outside, while a semi-naked cake has a thin layer of buttercream to seal in moisture. This style is perfect for a rustic or informal wedding and is budget-friendly. However, it may not be suitable for displaying all day as it can dry out or melt.

When choosing a cake style and recipe, it is important to consider the overall theme and style of your wedding, as well as your personal preferences for taste and design.

Buying equipment and ingredients

Equipment:

Firstly, you will need to decide on the size and number of tiers for your wedding cake. This decision will guide the specific equipment you need to buy. For a three-tier cake, you will require three sets of cake pans in different sizes, typically 12", 9", and 6" pans, each 3" tall. You will also need cardboard cake boards in matching sizes (12", 9", and 6") and a larger platter or cake stand to serve the cake. Additionally, consider investing in a cake turntable, cake smoothers, and a bench scraper for easier assembly and decorating.

Ingredients:

The ingredients you need will depend on the flavour and type of cake you choose to make. For a simple vanilla cake, you will need basic baking ingredients such as sugar, flour, eggs, butter, milk, and baking powder. If you opt for a fondant-covered cake, you will need to purchase fondant and gum paste, as well as food colouring if you want to create specific colours. For decorations, you can use fresh flowers, cake toppers, or edible pearls. Don't forget to stock up on essentials like parchment paper, a large serrated knife, and a pastry bag with various tips for piping.

Buying Tips:

When buying equipment and ingredients, it is advisable to make a detailed list to ensure you don't miss anything. Compare prices from different suppliers or stores to get the best deals. If you are ordering online, check the delivery times to ensure you receive the items well in advance of your baking date. It is also a good idea to buy a few extra ingredients in case of any mistakes or last-minute adjustments.

Storage:

Finally, consider the storage requirements for your ingredients and assembled cake. You will need a large refrigerator or a cool, dry place to store the cake before the wedding. Clear out a shelf or make space to accommodate the cake, especially if it has multiple tiers.

By following this guide and planning ahead, you will be well on your way to buying the necessary equipment and ingredients for creating a stunning wedding cake.

Making a test cake

Ask the Right Questions

Before you start baking, it's important to gather information about the wedding. Ask the couple about the wedding date, time, venue details (indoors or outdoors), the estimated number of guests, design ideas for the cake, and any allergies or intolerances. This will help you tailor your test cake to their specific needs and avoid potential issues.

Decide on the Form and Size

You can offer the couple a few options for the test cake. Cupcakes are a popular choice, as they allow you to provide multiple flavor options without having to bake multiple full-sized cakes. You can also create mini cakes by dividing a traditional cake recipe to make smaller, four-inch cakes. This option is perfect for the couple and a few volunteers to taste.

Determine the Number of Flavor Options

On average, wedding cake tastings offer around three flavor options, each with a different buttercream type and filling. This balance provides variety for the couple while being manageable for you as the baker. You can always charge for additional flavors if the couple wants to explore more options.

Plan Your Process

Organize your ingredients and tools ahead of time to ensure a smooth baking process. Create a "cheat sheet" with the measurements and flavors for each cake, buttercream, and filling. Prepare your ingredients in separate sections to avoid confusion and allow cold ingredients to come to room temperature. Bake one cake at a time, and use the waiting time to prepare your fillings and buttercreams.

Consider Charging for the Tasting

Whether or not to charge for the tasting is a common dilemma. Some bakers offer free tastings if the couple has already paid a deposit for the wedding cake. Others charge a flat fee for the tasting, which can be applied to the final cost of the wedding cake if they decide to book with you. Ultimately, it's important to value your time and ingredients when determining your pricing.

Delivery and Presentation

You can offer different delivery options, such as having the couple pick up the test cake or delivering it to them. Combining the tasting with a consultation where you discuss their ideas and provide quotes can also be beneficial. Present the test cake in a simple yet tasteful package, such as clear boxes for mini cakes or decorative boxes for cupcakes.

Handling Feedback

Be prepared to receive both positive and negative feedback from the couple. If they provide negative feedback, remain calm and try to understand their concerns. Offer solutions and be flexible in accommodating their preferences. If they love your test cake, celebrate and take the opportunity to finalize the details and close the deal!

Baking and assembling the cake

To bake a wedding cake in The Sims 4, your Sim must first have unlocked the Gourmet Cooking skill by reaching level 5 of the Cooking skill. Once your Sim has learned the Gourmet Cooking skill, a new interaction on the fridge called 'Cook Wedding Cake' will become available.

Your Sim can then select the type of wedding cake they want to bake. The skill level of your Sim will determine the type of cake they can bake. For example, at level one of the Gourmet Cooking skill, your Sim will only be able to make cupcake displays, while other types of wedding cakes will be available at higher skill levels.

After your Sim has baked the cake, they will need to spend some time decorating it. To use the cake for a wedding, a wedding topper must be added. Once the topper is added, no one can eat the cake until the newly married Sims have cut it or the topper is removed.

If you don't want to bake a wedding cake, your Sim can also purchase one through the computer. All 56 wedding cakes will be available to browse and purchase. Once purchased, the cake will appear in your Sim's inventory. Your Sim can then click on the cake and select 'Select as Wedding Cake'.

If you want to include a wedding cake in a park wedding, you can quickly add an oven and a kitchen bench to bake one, and then remove them afterward.

Transporting and storing the cake

Transporting and storing a wedding cake is a delicate process that requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some detailed guidelines to ensure your four-tier wedding cake stays intact and in perfect condition during transportation and storage:

Packaging and Preparation:

Firstly, select the appropriate packaging for your cake. Choose sturdy cake boxes designed for travel, ensuring each tier has its own box that matches its size to prevent movement. Before boxing the cake, thoroughly chill it to firm up the cake and reduce the risk of damage during transport. Non-slip mats inside the boxes and vehicle will also help keep the cake from sliding around.

Vehicle Conditions and Placement:

Select a vehicle with a spacious, flat loading area, such as an SUV or a van. Pre-cool the vehicle using air conditioning to maintain a cool environment, especially if the weather is warm, to prevent icing from melting. Shield the cake from direct sunlight by using sun shields or placing it in a shaded area of the vehicle.

When placing the cake in the vehicle, ensure it rests on a flat surface. If needed, create a level base using firm materials. Position the cake in the centre of the vehicle, where movement is minimised, and secure it with seat belts or cargo straps to prevent shifting during transport.

Driving and Environmental Considerations:

During the journey, drive smoothly, avoiding sudden accelerations or brakes to reduce the risk of cake damage. If possible, have an assistant to monitor and support the cake, especially on less stable roads or longer trips.

Be mindful of the environmental conditions and plan your route to avoid harsh weather, roadworks, rough terrain, or areas prone to traffic jams. Keep the windows closed to maintain a consistent temperature and avoid dust.

Final Setup and Troubleshooting:

Upon reaching the venue, use a wheeled cart to transport the cake from the vehicle to the display area, minimising handling and shaking. Ensure the display table is stable and away from high-traffic areas. Avoid placing the cake in direct sunlight or near windows to prevent heat or humidity from affecting its structure and appearance.

If the cake has been transported in separate tiers, assemble them carefully, checking alignment and stability as you go. Apply any final decorations, such as fresh flowers or intricate figurines.

Keep an emergency kit with extra icing, decorations, and tools to fix any minor issues, such as smudges, displaced decorations, or minor cracks. Perform a final inspection to ensure the cake is stable, the decorations are secure, and it meets your expectations.

Transporting and storing a four-tier wedding cake requires meticulous attention to detail, thorough preparation, and adaptability to ensure it arrives safely and is presented beautifully.

Frequently asked questions