Effectively cutting a wedding cake is a difficult task. Creating even cake slices while avoiding tiers, columns, fountains and inedible decorations may seem impossible for the untrained server. Fortunately, there is a formula for cake cutting.
Use the following guide to cut a wedding cake like a pro.
Cutting the Wedding Cake
Before you cut the cake, realize that some disassembly is required. A normal piece of wedding cake measures 1-inch by 2-inches. It usually is 2 to 3 layers tall.
Always remove the top tier from the cake. It is not counted in the number of servings. The smaller top tier is usually the anniversary cake. The entire top piece is frozen and the couple eats it on their first anniversary.
After removing the top tier, any inedible decoration such as beads, plastic figures or ribbons are removed. Start cutting the cake from the layer directly below the top tier.
To cut a square or rectangular cake, select at an outer edge of the cake, measure 2 inches from this edge and cut a line from one end to the other. Cut out 1-inch pieces along this line. Serve the slices and repeat. It is helpful to have someone cut the cake and another person plate and serve the slices.
Cutting round cakes requires you to work in concentric circles. Start 2 inches from the edge and cut a circle around the cake. Cut this circle into 1-inch wedges or pieces and serve the slices. Continue working your way toward the center of the cake. When you reach the center; cut it into equal pieces.
Petal flowered cakes are cut similar to round cakes. Hexagon, oval and paisley cakes are cut similar to rectangular cakes. If you have individual cakes on a multilevel stand, start with the top cake, cut and serve it as required for the particular shape. Continue working down through the lower levels.
Heart shaped cakes require a different approach than other cake shapes. First, cut the cake in half, then into quarters, then eighths, and continue cutting until you have 2-inch sections. Cut each 2-inch section into 1-inch pieces.
Groom’s cakes are round or rectangular, and they should be cut as listed above. Your caterer will help you select the appropriate size cake for your wedding. If you are baking a wedding cake for a friend, use this guide to help you determine the right size cake for the number of guests that are attending. It will also guide you in cutting the cake correctly.
Knowing how to properly cut a wedding cake can mean the difference between a successful wedding reception and a disaster. Professionally cut wedding cakes will serve all of the guests. If the pieces are cut improperly, someone may go without cake. That would be a tragedy. Using this guide will ensure that your wedding cake will be cut in a professional manner.