Cake Complete 101
Precious cargo should be treated as such.
You’ve picked the cake, planned the party and now it’s time to get your masterpiece safely from Queen City Cakes to the celebration. Here’s how to make sure your cake arrives looking every bit as fabulous as when it left us.
How to Handle
Keep it level. Always.
Carry your cake with both hands underneath the cake box for wider or heavier cakes, supporting the bottom, lighter and smaller cakes can be carried with one hand underneath the cake box and one holding the ribbon.
- Don’t carry the box from the lid.
- Don’t swing it at your side.
- Don’t place your hand on top of the box.
Think of it like carrying a tiny, very glamorous piece of architecture. Slow, steady and with respect.
If your cake is particularly tall or elaborate, take your time and avoid sudden movements.
How to Transport
Keep it level. Always (just in case you missed that).
The safest place for your cake during transport is flat on the floor of your vehicle, ideally in the passenger (front or rear) footwell or another completely level surface. For larger heavier cakes the trunk is suitable.
- Not the seat.
- Not someone’s lap.
- Not on top of other items.
Keep the air conditioning running during warmer weather and keep your cake out of direct sunlight, this is to keep the cake as cool as possible.
For the smoothest journey:
- Drive gently.
- Take corners slowly.
- Avoid sudden braking.
- Keep the cake level.
- Keep the vehicle cool.
- Make the cake your last stop before the party.
And please resist the temptation to peek at your cake every five minutes. We promise it’s still fabulous.
How to Store
Carry the cake inside, and place on level surface.
Depending on when your cake is needed, you will either leave the cake out to come to room temperature (this can take several hours so please factor this into planning) or place it into the refrigerator if it is for later.
Read through the Cake Serving 101 for bringing the cake to room temperature.
Once positioned for display, avoid moving the cake unnecessarily. Your cake has travelled enough let her rest.
If your cake contains delicate decorations, fresh flowers or other temperature-sensitive elements, extra care is essential.
How to tell its Ready
For the best experience, all Queen City Cakes should be brought to room temperature before serving. This allows both the cake and buttercream to soften, giving you that soft, moist cake and smooth, creamy buttercream we’re after and you are after too.
Because every home is a little different, there isn’t a one size fits all time. Your room temperature, the season, and where your cake is sitting can all affect how quickly it comes to room temperature. It may take a little longer in a cool home or less time in a warm one.
So rather than watching the clock, watch the buttercream:
- Soft & fluffy? Slice with ease!
- Firm & hard? A little more time, please!
This is not going to take minutes, think butter, if you want it soft you need a good few hours for a block to come to room temperature, these cakes are not like the grocery store icing and cake made with high ratio shortening and/or vegetable fats, so think ahead and plan accordingly for the best experience.
How to Cut
For the most slices and the cleanest presentation, cut your cake across the cake rather than into traditional wedges.
Make straight cuts across the cake to create long, even strips, then cut those strips into individual portions. This method gives you more servings and much cleaner, neater slices.
Unsure, ask for a instructional cutting card, to avoid the mess.
What to do with Leftovers
If you somehow have cake left over, it can absolutely be frozen for another day.
Place leftover cake in an airtight container or wrap it securely to protect it from freezer burn and keep it fresh. When you're ready for round two, allow the cake to thaw completely and return to room temperature before serving.
Because throwing away good cake is simply unacceptable.
Golden Rule
Follow these steps to ensure the best cake experience.