How to Keep Your Wedding Cake Good for a Whole Year

Got a beautiful cake that still sits in the fridge after the big day? Maybe you want to eat it later, or you’ve got leftovers you’d rather not waste. A wedding cake can stay tasty for months if you store it right and know how to bring it back to life.

Best Ways to Store a Wedding Cake

First thing: keep the cake airtight. Wrap each tier tightly in cling film, then add a layer of aluminium foil. This double barrier stops air and freezer burn from ruining the sponge and frosting.

For short‑term storage (up to a week), a fridge works fine. Put the wrapped cake on the middle shelf where the temperature stays steady. If you need longer storage, freeze it. Freeze the wrapped cake flat, then place it in a large freezer bag. Label it with the date so you won’t forget when you froze it.

When you’re ready to eat, move the cake from freezer to fridge the night before. Let it thaw slowly – rapid temperature changes can make the frosting weep or the sponge turn soggy.

Reviving Flavour and Texture

Even the best‑wrapped cake can lose a bit of moisture after months. Lightly brush the sponge with a simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, heated until the sugar dissolves). This adds moisture without making it soggy.

If the frosting looks dry, mix a spoonful of cream cheese or buttercream with a splash of milk. Spread it over the cake layers and you’ll get that fresh‑off‑the‑bakery feel again.

For a flavor boost, drizzle a little fruit puree, caramel, or brewed coffee over the top. It masks any dull notes and adds a fun twist.

Creative Ways to Re‑Use Leftover Cake

Don’t let a whole tier go to waste. Cube the cake and toss it into milkshakes – just blend with vanilla ice cream and a splash of your favourite liqueur for an adult treat.

Make cake pops: crumble the cake, mix with a bit of frosting, roll into balls, dip in melted chocolate, and sprinkle with edible gold dust. They’re perfect for a brunch or a small party.

If you’re feeling crafty, layer the cake cubes with fresh berries and whipped cream in a trifle dish. It turns a leftover into an elegant dessert that feels fresh.

Another low‑effort idea is to crumble the cake into a spring‑form pan, press it down, and bake a quick cheesecake base. Top with the original frosting for a cheesecake‑cake hybrid.

When to Toss It

Even with perfect storage, a cake isn’t safe forever. If you see mold, an off smell, or the frosting looks unusually runny, it’s time to say goodbye. Food safety is worth more than a sentimental slice.

In Bristol, many local bakeries will even take back leftover cakes for donation or repurposing. Give them a call before you discard anything.

Keeping a wedding cake for a year isn’t as hard as it sounds. Wrap it tight, freeze if you need extra time, revive it with simple syrups and fresh frosting, and get creative with leftovers. Your cake can enjoy a second life – whether on a plate, in a milkshake, or as a fancy cake pop.