How to store cake and keep it moist
How you store cake is important. Let’s face it: no one likes stale cake. Try these simple storage tips to keep your baked goodies fresh and moist for days.
You’ve baked two huge cakes for a small gathering, and you have leftovers. Storing baked goods in the refrigerator, freezer, or at room temperature has pros and cons. You may think your refrigerator is the best option. Someone else may tell you otherwise. Let’s go through a few details before you make the right decision.
How to store frosted and unfrosted cakes
It is a good idea to remember that a cake will start to lose its moisture as soon as you cut the first slice. Therefore, before cutting your first slice, know how many servings you need, and if you have leftovers, know how you will store them.
There are several options for storing the cake. Let’s answer a few questions before reviewing the tools you need.
How to store cake?
You can store cake in the refrigerator, in the freezer and at room temperature.
How to store cake overnight?
You can store cake overnight on your countertop or dining room table as long as the cake is covered and the temperature is normal. If you are storing your cake overnight in the refrigerator, wrap it in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, a plastic or glass container, or a ziplock bag. Remember that the temperature of your fridge will start sucking out the moisture, so make sure you cover the cake.
How long can you keep a frosted cake in the refrigerator?
You can keep a frosted cake in the refrigerator no longer than 24 hours. Store the cake in the freezer instead.
Can a cake sit out unrefrigerated?
Yes, and for about 3 days maximum. The cake must be covered and protected. There are a few exceptions for a cake to sit unrefrigerated.
– The icing/frosting must not require refrigeration.
– You cannot have fresh fruits on top of the cake
How long does cake last at room temperature?
A cake can stay at room temperature for 3 – 4 days.
How long can frosted cake sit out unrefrigerated?
The amount of time a frosted cake can sit out unrefrigerated depends on the type of frosting used.
– Perishable frostings: Frostings that contain perishable ingredients, such as whipped cream, cream cheese, or dairy products, should be refrigerated within two hours of being frosted. These frostings can spoil quickly at room temperature, due to the presence of bacteria.
– Non-perishable frostings: Frostings that do not contain perishable ingredients, such as buttercream, fondant, or ganache, can be left out at room temperature for up to five days. However, these frostings may start to dry out or become crumbly after a few days.
It is also important to consider the temperature and humidity of the environment when storing a frosted cake. In hot and humid weather, it is best to refrigerate the cake to prevent the frosting from melting or becoming runny.
Here are some tips for storing a frosted cake:
Keep the cake covered with a cake keeper or a bowl to protect it from dust and other particles.
– Place the cake in a cool, dry place.
– If you are storing the cake for more than two days, refrigerate it.
– When you are ready to serve the cake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften the frosting.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when storing cake:
– The fresher the cake, the better it will taste.
– If you are unsure about whether or not a cake is safe to eat, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.
What do I use to store cake?
There are many ways to store leftover cakes in the refrigerator and the freezer. You can choose plastic or glass bowls, food wraps, Ziploc bags, and aluminum foil.
- A plastic bowl with a cover or an air-tight container is an excellent way to store cake, baked goods, and desserts. The plastic bowl keeps the moisture locked inside, and the cake won’t dry or stale.
- Food Wrap is perfect for storing cake in the refrigerator and the freezer. You must use more than one layer to protect the cake from absorbing flavors from other food in the freezer.
- Aluminum foil is a good option, but it does not last long. Use this method if you are planning to store the cake for not more than a week. The temperature in the freezer will start to affect the foil. You can wrap the cake first in plastic and then in aluminum foil.
- A Ziploc bag is the best option for sliced cakes. But first, wrap the sliced cakes in food wrap and place all the slices in the bag.
My recommended tips to store cake
- Place the wrapped cake in a resealable freezer bag, squeeze out the air, and seal.
- Label and date the wrapped cake before freezing.
- Wrap each slice separately for large cakes so you can thaw and serve by the slice as needed.
- You should also ensure that the cake does not come into contact with other foods or containers used for food storage. This will help prevent bacteria from spreading onto the cake, which could lead to mold growth.
How to defrost a frozen cake
- When you freeze your cake slices, let them defrost to room temperature before you eat them. Otherwise, the texture will not be as pleasant, and the taste may also suffer.
- For a frozen whole cake, refrigerate for about an hour before slicing and serving.
Here are a few cake recipe ideas that freeze well
Cake is a popular dessert that everyone can enjoy, but it must be stored correctly if you want it to stay fresh. Proper storage is key to enjoying your baked goods beyond their best-by dates.
