The Perfect Timing For Your Frozen Wedding Cake

Freezing a wedding cake is a great way to preserve a memory from your special day. Traditionally, the top tier of the wedding cake is saved and eaten at the christening of the couple's first child or on their first anniversary. However, freezing a wedding cake requires more than just sticking it in the freezer. The process begins with boxing up the cake and removing any decorations. Then, the cake is chilled so that the icing hardens, and it is wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminium foil before being placed in an airtight container and stored in the freezer. It is best to defrost the cake slowly by transferring it to the refrigerator 24 to 48 hours before serving. While freezing a wedding cake is a fun tradition, it's important to note that not all cakes are suitable for freezing, and the taste may not be exactly the same after a year.

How to wrap your wedding cake for the freezer

Wrapping your wedding cake for the freezer is a delicate process, but if done correctly, you'll be able to enjoy a slice of your special day a year later. Here's how to do it:

Firstly, remove any decorations, such as sugar flowers, cake toppers, or ribbons from your cake. This will ensure that your cake is easy to wrap and that the decorations don't get in the way of the freezing process. Smaller decorations made from icing can be left on.

Next, place your cake in the refrigerator for at least three hours or overnight. Chilling the cake will allow the icing to harden, preventing it from sticking to the plastic wrap when you wrap it up. Before putting your cake in the refrigerator, make sure to remove any foods with strong odors to prevent the cake from absorbing unwanted smells.

Once the icing has hardened, remove the cake from the refrigerator and wrap it in several layers of plastic wrap. It's important to wrap the cake tightly and ensure that every inch is covered to prevent air bubbles from forming and the cake from drying out. Do not use aluminum foil as this can cause freezer burn.

After your cake is securely wrapped, place it in a freezer-safe airtight container. If you're storing your cake in a box, wrap the box itself in several layers of plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can place the cake in an airtight container, such as a freezer bag or a cake preservation box.

Finally, pop your cake back into the freezer! Don't forget to mark it with a ribbon or label so that you don't accidentally throw it out while it's in the freezer. Now you can look forward to enjoying your wedding cake on your first anniversary.

How long to chill your cake before freezing

The length of time you chill your cake before freezing depends on the size and type of cake you have. For example, cupcakes only need 10-15 minutes to cool down before they can be placed in the freezer, whereas a Bundt cake needs 15-20 minutes in the pan, followed by another 1-2 hours on a cooling rack.

If you are planning to freeze a wedding cake, it is important to chill the cake in the refrigerator before wrapping it up so that the icing hardens. This will take at least three hours or can be left overnight. Chilling the cake will prevent the frosting from sticking to the plastic wrap.

If you are in a hurry, you can place your cake in the freezer to chill, but be aware that this may dry out your cake.

How long to defrost your wedding cake for

To defrost your wedding cake, you should take it out of the freezer 24 to 48 hours before you plan to eat it. This will give the cake enough time to defrost. Take the cake out of its airtight container and slowly remove the plastic wrap. Place the cake back into the airtight container and put it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours or overnight. You want the cake to be fully defrosted and soft. On the day you plan to eat the cake, take it out of the refrigerator and the container. Let the cake sit out so it can reach room temperature (this takes about two hours).

The tricky bit is when you unfreeze the cake. Condensation forms when the cake thaws and can leave permanent marks on your icing. This is more of a concern with fondant-covered cakes than buttercream cakes. To minimise this, slowly unfreeze the cake in the fridge for at least a couple of hours and then, once it's almost defrosted, bring it to room temperature.

It's important to note that freezing your cake for a whole year and then expecting it to taste the same as it did on your wedding day is a tall order. A frost-free freezer can dry the cake out. Delicate cakes are more likely to become stale during freezing, and certain fillings might not maintain their original texture. Heartier cakes will stand up better to a year in the freezer.

How to transport your wedding cake

Transporting a wedding cake is a big job, but with careful planning, it can be done without a hitch! Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your cake arrives safely and securely.

Check with the Baker

Firstly, get the baker's transportation recommendations. Find out the measurements and weight of the cake to ensure your vehicle has enough room and plan for fridge space if necessary. Ask whether the cake needs to be refrigerated. If so, check that the venue has space in its refrigerator, otherwise, time the delivery for closer to the start of the reception.

Use a Cake Drum and Sturdy Cardboard Box

The easiest way to transport a wedding cake is by using a cake drum and a sturdy cardboard box. A cake drum is a heavy-duty cake board, typically at least ½ inch thick, that fits perfectly into a cake box. The cake should be secured to the drum with a wooden dowel or other cake supports to prevent the layers from sliding. The cake drum provides a sturdy base, and when paired with a cardboard box, will keep the cake safe during transport.

Reserve a Flat Place in Your Vehicle

Whether you're driving a short or long distance, the wedding cake needs to be placed on a level surface. Use a vehicle with a large flat back or a large floorboard, such as an SUV. Avoid placing the cake on laps or car seats as these are unstable and slanted. If the floor of your car has a smooth surface, place a non-stick liner or a textured yoga mat to prevent sliding.

Keep the Vehicle Cool

Even if the cake does not require refrigeration, it's important to keep the car cool during the drive. Keep the air conditioner on and avoid direct sunlight. For long trips, consider picking up the cake the day before and placing it in the fridge overnight to slowly thaw. Alternatively, use a makeshift cooler with dry ice for the journey.

Drive Carefully with a Helper

Send two people to transport the cake if possible. This way, one person can sit next to the cake and hold it steady during the drive, especially when going over speed bumps or turning sharply.

Save the Cake Stand for the Venue

It is best to place the cake directly on the cake board or drum and assemble it onto the cake stand at the venue, unless you are very experienced.

Pass These Instructions to the Pickup Person

If someone else is picking up the cake, be sure to pass on these instructions to ensure they are well-prepared and know what to expect. It is also a good idea to bring a cake "repair kit" with extra frosting and decorating tools for any last-minute touch-ups.

With these precautions and steps, your wedding cake will arrive safely and securely, looking as good as it tastes!

How long can a wedding cake stay out of the fridge?

How long a wedding cake can stay out of the fridge depends on the type of cake and the filling. A delicate cake, such as angel food cake, is more likely to become stale at room temperature, and fillings like custard or fresh fruit may not maintain their texture. Heartier cakes, like chocolate, carrot, hazelnut, and almond, will fare better.

If you are taking a frozen cake to a venue, it is best to keep it in the box in the freezer until you are ready to transport it, and then place it in an air-conditioned car. If the venue is cool, the cake should be fine out of the fridge for the duration of the ceremony and reception. If it is warm, it is best to keep the cake in the fridge until 1-2 hours before serving.

If you are serving a cake that has been frozen, it is best to remove the wrapping and allow it to thaw in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours before serving. Then, remove the cake from the fridge and let it sit for 2-3 hours to reach room temperature before serving.

It is important to note that freezing a cake for a whole year and expecting it to taste the same as the day it was baked is a tall order. A frost-free freezer can dry out the cake, and the icing and decorations may be affected. Some couples choose to save a few slices of each tier to enjoy on their first anniversary rather than freezing the entire top tier.

Frequently asked questions