Preserving your wedding cake: Tips for a delicious memory
Congratulations! You have tied the knot and celebrated your special day with a stunning wedding cake. As the memories of that delightful confection linger, you may be wondering how to preserve a slice or two for posterity. Fear not! In this blog post, I will guide you through the art of preserving your wedding cake, ensuring that you can savour its flavours even long after the last dance.
1. PLAN AHEAD
Preservation starts with meticulous planning. Before your big day, discuss your intentions with your cake designer. They will provide you with guidance on the cake's composition and advise on the best techniques for preserving it. It's important to remember that not all cakes are suitable for long-term preservation, so understanding your options from the outset is crucial. I would only recommend freezing your cake for up to 3 months.
2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT CAKE
Different types of cakes have varying preservation abilities. Fondant-covered and ganache cakes tend to fare better than buttercream due to their protective barrier. Opt for a cake that is structurally sound and can withstand being refrigerated or even frozen.
3. PROPER REMOVAL AND PACKAGING
Once the cake-cutting festivities are complete, it's time to remove a slice for preservation. Use a clean knife to gently cut out the desired portion, ensuring that you preserve the cake's aesthetics. Carefully transfer the slice onto a sturdy, food-safe plate or cardboard base. This is often done by your wedding caterer, so it would be great to mention it to them that you would like to save some of the cake.
4. WRAPPING TECHNIQUES
Preservation versus freezer burn is an eternal battle - one that can be won with proper wrapping techniques. Start by wrapping the slice tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no gaps or exposed areas. Freezer burn occurs when there are air pockets in the item. Next, place the wrapped slice in an airtight container or airtight sealable bag. Be sure to label it with the date and the couple's names for easy identification.
5. TO FREEZE OR REFRIGERATE
The decision to freeze or refrigerate your preserved wedding cake depends on personal preference and the cake's composition. Fondant cakes usually freeze better due to their moisture retention properties. If freezing, ensure you place the cake in the back of the freezer away from any strong-smelling or pungent foods. For refrigeration, choose a spot within the fridge that is cool and less likely to experience temperature fluctuations.
Keeping your wedding cake is such a sweet idea that some of my couples do, I even had one couple that took a portion of their wedding cake on their honeymoon and had it on the beach!
I hope this was helpful! See you on the next one couples!
Abigail x
