Keep Your Cakes Cool and Perfect this Summer with These 6 Handy Tips
- Maxine Newman
- Jun 20
- 3 min read
As we move into the summer months and the heat starts to rise, keeping your cakes perfect in the hot weather can be challenging. Heat can turn your stunning cakes into sticky messes, but don’t worry! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a casual gathering, or treating yourself to a sweet delight, with a few practical tips, your cakes can remain beautiful and tasty, no matter how high the temperature rises.
1. Keep Air Conditioning on in the Car
When you transport your cake, it’s vital to ensure a cool environment. Before you set off, check that your car’s air conditioning is working effectively. While the idea of fresh air may tempt you to roll down the windows, the heat can quickly affect your cake’s shape and texture.
If it is super hot, or you are planning a slightly longer journey, placing the cake in a cool box or bag filled with ice packs will help keep the cake cool and survive the heat.
2. Lay the Cake Flat in the Boot or Passenger Footwell
Placement is crucial! Always lay your cake flat in either the boot or the passenger footwell of your car. This way, you prevent it from sliding around, reducing the chance of it toppling or getting damaged during the journey.
And don't forget to drive slowly with no sudden braking!
3. Put the Cake Straight in the Fridge When You Get Home
Once you arrive home, act fast. Head straight to the fridge with your cake, especially if your house is warm. The quicker you chill your cake, the better it will maintain its shape and texture.
Chilling not only helps firm up the cake, but it also freshens up the icing. Remember to keep the cake covered to avoid any odors or moisture from the fridge impacting its flavor.
It's always a good idea to make room for your cake in the fridge before you head out to collect it.
4. Do Not Stop Off on the Way Home
To keep your cake flawless, skip any unnecessary stops on your way home. The longer your cake is exposed to heat, the more likely it is to succumb to those high temperatures.
Plan an efficient route ahead of time so you can head straight home after picking up your sweet creation. Your cake will appreciate the direct approach!
5. Take the Cake Out of the Fridge 30 Minutes Before You Need It
Timing is everything! If you remove your cake from the fridge too soon, it might melt, but leaving it in too long could make it too cold for serving. A good rule of thumb is to take the cake out 30 minutes before you plan to serve it.
This allows the cake to reach an ideal serving temperature, enhancing its flavour and texture. Moreover, the icing will soften to a lovely, spreadable consistency that everyone will adore.
6. Never sit your Cake in direct Sunlight
Think about where you want your cake to be displayed at your event.
Never place your cake in direct sunlight or in a very hot room, like a conservatory, this will result in your cake melting very quickly!
An air conditioned room or shady, cool area is always the preferred place for your cake.
This can understandably be tricky depending on the venue, so it's always a good idea to check beforehand.
Some little extras I offer for Summer cakes
All of my cakes are buttercream cakes which means they can melt easily in the heat.
I offer the option of a ganache filling and/or crumb coat in the summer months, especially for wedding cakes. Chocolate ganache fares better in heat because of the dense consistency.
I always send over cake care information to my customers a week before the collection date, and I attach a printed copy to the cake box too.
Always read these instructions carefully, and if someone is collecting on your behalf, ensure they have a copy and have read them thoroughly.
No Question is a Silly Question
As always, if you have any questions or concerns at all, please always check with your cake maker, they will be able to give you the best advice on how to keep your cakes cool and perfect for your celebration!
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