How to Store a Wedding Cake and Keep It Fresh

After the big day, the last thing you want is a soggy or cracked cake. The good news is that storing a wedding cake is pretty straightforward if you follow a few basic steps. Below are the practical things you can do right after the ceremony to protect your cake, whether you have one tier or three.

Cool It Down Before Anything Else

The first rule is to let the cake cool completely. If it’s still warm, the frosting can melt and slide off. A good trick is to move the cake to a cool, shaded spot on the reception floor and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Don’t rush this – the cooling period helps the layers settle and makes the cake easier to handle.

Wrap It Right

Once the cake is cool, cover it tightly. A cake box is the ideal choice, but if you don’t have one, a large airtight container works. You can also use a clean, dry kitchen towel followed by a layer of plastic wrap. Make sure the wrapping doesn’t press on any decorations – delicate sugar flowers or fondant can get bruised.

If you have a tiered cake, keep each tier separate. Place each tier on a sturdy cake board, then wrap each board individually. This prevents the tiers from sliding together and breaking the frosting.

Refrigerate or Not?

Most buttercream‑frosted cakes are safe in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Set the fridge to a moderate temperature (around 4 °C / 39 °F). Place the wrapped cake on a flat shelf – avoid the back where cold air can hit it directly.

For fondant or sugar‑based decorations, a cool room (around 10‑12 °C / 50‑54 °F) works better. Too much chill can make fondant hard and crack. If your venue has a climate‑controlled room, that’s perfect for short‑term storage.

Transporting the Cake

When you need to move the cake to another location, keep it level. Use a sturdy cake carrier or a flat surface inside a vehicle and secure it with non‑slip mats. If the journey is longer than an hour, consider a portable cooler with ice packs around the box – just don’t let the ice touch the cake directly.

Before loading, double‑check that the wrapping is sealed and the box is closed tightly. A quick shake test can tell you if anything is loose.

What About Leftovers?

If you have leftover slices, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They stay good for about three days. For longer storage, freeze the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then move them to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Remember, the key to a fresh‑looking cake is gentle handling, proper cooling, and tight wrapping. Follow these steps, and your cake will stay as beautiful and tasty as it was when you cut it.