Birthday cakes are a great addition to any party, symbolising appreciation and love for the birthday individual while providing an opportunity for loved ones to gather and bond over a delectable dessert. But having just a slice of cake is usually never enough and indulging in the entire confectionery in one sitting may be excessive, so it’s common to spread birthday cake servings across several days for enjoyment. Naturally, proper cake storage becomes crucial, ensuring that your sweet treat remains fresh and retains its original flavour. Here’s a quick guide on storing your birthday cake to ensure it stays delectable for longer!
Learn more: Birthday Cakes: Is It Better to Bake It Yourself or Order Online?
Storing Cake for Short Term (3 days or less)
Preserving your birthday cake’s freshness and preventing it from drying out or spoiling too quickly is crucial for short-term storage. However, the storage method differs according to the type of cake. For instance, sponge cakes can be stored at room temperature thanks to their lighter texture and fewer moisture-rich components. Just make sure to store them away from air and sunlight as these environmental factors can cause your cake to become stale. Taking it a step further, wrap the cake box in plastic to help retain moisture and prevent contamination. An acrylic cake lid or an airtight container can offer added protection if you prefer a more secure seal.
On the other hand, if your birthday cake features frosting or other moist toppings, then refrigeration is necessary to maintain its quality. Frosting, especially buttercream or cream cheese varieties, is prone to melting or becoming too soft at room temperature, compromising the cake’s appearance and texture. After proper sealing, store your cake in the fridge to keep the frosting firm and minimise bacterial growth, which is more likely in moist environments.
Storing Cake for Long Term (more than 3 days)
Found yourself with an unexpectedly large birthday cake with plenty of leftovers? Fret not, as freezing offers a reliable solution in such circumstances. Similar to storing a cake for short-term consumption, the first step is to wrap the cake securely in multiple layers of plastic, creating a protective barrier against both freezer burn and moisture loss. Next, place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag to further shield it from potential damage.
When it’s time to enjoy the cake, a gradual defrosting process is recommended. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight to reduce moisture loss and preserve its texture. Alternatively, you can also thaw your cake at room temperature for a few hours if time is limited.
While storing birthday cakes can be convenient, nothing quite compares to savouring them fresh and at their prime on the special day itself. Considering the cake's serving size and the number of guests attending the celebration can help avoid leftovers. If you’re indulging on your own, a mini cake can be ideal. Nonetheless, it is still always preferable to have a bit more cake than not enough, so everyone can relish it to their heart's content. Keep the tips we shared in mind and your cake is sure to stay irresistibly fresh so you can treat yourself even after the festivities have ended!
With over 10 years of experience and freshly made-to-order, Fieldnotes’ delightful desserts rise to every occasion with nothing less than exceptional quality and taste. We make delicious cakes accessible to all – take advantage of our birthday cake or mini cake delivery service for maximum convenience!
