Wedding Cake Taste: The Secret's In The Ingredients

Wedding cakes are often thought of as having a distinct flavour, but this can vary depending on the region and the couple's preferences. In the US, a traditional wedding cake is typically a white, almond cake with vanilla or almond-scented white icing. However, in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, wedding cakes are more commonly fruit cakes.

The presentation and context of a wedding cake can also affect people's perception of its taste. Some people associate wedding cake with a certain type of icing or decoration, such as fondant or buttercream, which can contribute to the overall taste experience.

Ultimately, there is no universal recipe for a wedding cake, and couples can choose any flavour or style that suits their tastes and the theme of their wedding.

Wedding cake flavouring

Wedding cakes can be any flavour, but traditionally, wedding cake flavour is associated with vanilla and almond. This flavour combination is often referred to as "wedding cake flavour" and is used in other desserts such as ice cream, coffee, frozen yoghurt, and shaved ice.

The "traditional North American Wedding Cake Flavour" is a white cake, often dense and moist, with a hint of almond and vanilla, and usually light on almond, with sour cream as the fat. This combination is sometimes referred to as WASC (white almond sour cream) cake.

When choosing a wedding cake flavour, couples can sample different options with their baker, including various cake, frosting, and filling combinations. They can also choose to incorporate edible decorations that complement the flavours in the cake, such as strawberries with strawberry jam or edible flowers and herbs like basil and mint.

While there are no rules regarding the flavour and design of a wedding cake, it is important to consider factors such as the time of year, whether the wedding is indoor or outdoor, and the number of tiers, as these can impact the cake's structural soundness and taste.

Fondant vs buttercream

Wedding cakes come in all shapes, sizes, and flavours. However, when it comes to choosing the icing, it's often a choice between fondant and buttercream. Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on the couple's priorities.

Fondant is made from sugar, water, corn syrup, and gelatin. It is easily adaptable to elaborate designs and patterns and is ideal for creating a flawless, clean aesthetic. It is also more stable than buttercream and can hold its shape for longer, making it a good option for outdoor weddings or cakes that need to be transported or displayed for extended periods. However, fondant typically lacks the noteworthy taste of buttercream and is often described as having an artificial or overly sweet flavour. It is also more expensive and time-consuming to create.

Buttercream, on the other hand, is a combination of butter and sugar, resulting in a rich and creamy texture and taste. It can be tinted with food colouring to match any colour scheme and is known for its delicious flavour, which can be customised with a wide range of ingredients. However, buttercream is more susceptible to melting in warm temperatures and may not be suitable for outdoor weddings or events in hot weather.

Ultimately, if taste is the top priority, buttercream is the better choice. If appearance and cost are not a factor, fondant might be preferred for its smooth and pliable texture, which can be shaped into various designs. Some couples even opt for a layer of buttercream underneath the fondant to get the best of both worlds.

Refrigeration

When it comes to refrigeration, there are several benefits and limitations to keep in mind. Firstly, refrigeration extends the shelf life of a cake by slowing down the spoilage process, giving you a few extra days to enjoy it. This is especially important for cakes with dairy-based fillings or frostings, such as buttercream, whipped cream, or custard, as these tend to spoil faster and typically last only 4 days in the fridge. Fruit-filled cakes also benefit from refrigeration, lasting between 3-5 days, depending on the fruit's acidity and moisture content.

However, refrigeration can also speed up the staling process due to starch retrogradation, resulting in a drier and stiffer texture. Additionally, strong-smelling foods in the fridge can cause flavour transfer, affecting the taste of the cake. It's essential to place the cake in a container to prevent it from absorbing odours and to ensure proper airflow.

To effectively refrigerate a cake, it's recommended to first let it cool down to room temperature to prevent condensation. Then, decide whether to store the entire cake or individual slices, as slices can dry out faster but take up less space. Tightly wrap the cake or slices with plastic wrap to keep air out and reduce the risk of drying and spoilage. For extra protection, place the wrapped cake in an airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of how long it has been refrigerated. Place the cake in the least crowded part of the fridge, preferably on a middle shelf, to maintain optimal temperature and avoid absorbing odours.

While refrigeration can help extend the life of a cake, it's not a permanent solution, and the cake should still be consumed within a reasonable timeframe. Additionally, it's essential to regularly check for signs of spoilage, such as mould, off-putting smells, or changes in texture, before consuming.

Cake presentation

The presentation of a wedding cake plays a crucial role in enhancing its taste and overall appeal. While the flavour and quality of the cake are essential, the way it is presented can elevate the entire experience. Here are some tips to ensure your wedding cake is presented in the best light:

• Avoid fondant: Fondant, the plasticky and tasteless icing found on many wedding cakes, is often disliked due to its texture and lack of flavour. Instead, opt for classic buttercream or a frosting-less cake for a more rustic and elegant look.
• Use edible decorations: Enhance the flavour and appearance of your cake by decorating it with edible items that complement the flavours. For instance, if your cake has strawberry jam, consider adding fresh strawberries. Edible flowers and herbs like basil and mint are also excellent choices that taste delicious.
• Incorporate the wedding theme: Use your wedding theme to inspire the cake's design. For example, if the bride is wearing Converse sneakers, a Funfetti cake could be a fun and unexpected choice. Consider the colour scheme, floral arrangements, and overall atmosphere of the wedding when designing the cake.
• Tiered cakes: Large format cakes often prioritise structural soundness and visual appeal over taste. To ensure your cake tastes as good as it looks, opt for a smaller tiered cake for presentation and a regular sheet cake for serving.
• Refrigeration considerations: If your wedding is outdoors or in a warm location, discuss refrigeration options with your baker to ensure the cake remains stable and does not melt or slump.
• Display cake and serving cake: Consider having a smaller display cake for the cake-cutting ceremony and a separate sheet cake for serving. This ensures that the presentation and taste of the cake are both optimal.
• Customisation: Don't be afraid to customise your cake to match your unique preferences. If you and your partner have a special connection to banana splits, inquire about a custom order cake with those flavours.

Cake decoration

Flavour Inspiration

Use edible items that complement the flavours already in the cake. For instance, if you have a strawberry jam filling, consider decorating with fresh strawberries. This approach enhances the overall sensory experience of the cake, making it even more delightful.

Flowers and Herbs

Edible flowers and herbs, such as basil and mint, are a beautiful and tasty way to adorn your cake. They add a touch of elegance and can be coordinated with the wedding's floral arrangements. If you opt for non-edible flowers, ask your florist for extra blooms to match your cake with the rest of the wedding décor.

Modern Trends

Today's weddings embrace individuality, so feel free to get creative with your cake design. Instead of a traditional white cake, consider a Funfetti cake or incorporate your favourite flavours, such as banana splits. You can draw inspiration from other cakes you admire, whether they are ombre birthday cakes or unique flavour combinations. There are no rules, so make it your own!

Cake Size and Structure

Large cakes often prioritise structural soundness and visual appeal over taste. To ensure your cake tastes as good as it looks, consider opting for smaller cakes or a two-tiered design with a sheet cake for serving. This way, you can have a stunning presentation cake and plenty of delicious slices for your guests.

Frosting and Icing

Classic buttercream is a popular choice for wedding cakes, offering a homey and messy vibe. Alternatively, you can embrace the current trend of exposed layer, frosting-less cakes, which exude rustic elegance. If you want to avoid fondant, which some find tasteless, explore options like buttercream or ganache.

Refrigeration and Climate Considerations

If your wedding is outdoors or in a warm climate, discuss refrigeration options with your baker. This is crucial for avoiding a melted cake disaster. Communicate the wedding location, time of year, and whether it is an indoor or outdoor event to ensure the cake stays intact until it's time to cut the cake.

Frequently asked questions