How to properly store cake and ensure freshness

When it comes to preserving the freshness of cakes and cupcakes, proper storage is key. While serving them fresh on the same day they are baked is ideal, there are times when we need to store them for later consumption. Whether you have leftovers or need to prepare in advance, following the correct storage guidelines will help maintain their quality for as long as possible. SSP prepared.

Avoid refrigeration for cakes

Contrary to common belief, refrigerating cakes is not recommended. Although refrigeration usually helps in extending the shelf life of many foods, it accelerates the staleness of cakes. When cakes are cooled, starch molecules in the flour absorb moisture, but refrigeration causes them to recrystallize and force out the moisture, leading to faster staleness. This applies not only to cakes but other baked goods as well, including breads. Therefore, refrain from refrigerating your cakes.

Store at room temperature for 1 to 3 Days

If you plan to consume your cake within three days, keeping it at room temperature is the best option. Choose a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight and heat. If your cake is in a bakery box, you can leave it there. For storage exceeding 24 hours, wrap the box with plastic wrap to prevent drying out for up to three days.

If your cake is not contained in a box, investing in an acrylic cake lid can be beneficial. These clear domes cover the cake, keeping it fresh. Alternatively, consider using a plastic cake storage container, which consists of a tray for the cake and a domed top that snaps shut, creating an airtight seal. These containers come in different sizes to accommodate various cake shapes, and some even have specialized shelves for cupcakes or bundt cakes.

Freezing cakes for longer storage

When you need to store your cake for more than three days, freezing it is an excellent preservation method, applicable to both frosted and unfrosted cakes. If your cake is in a bakery box, wrap the entire box in two layers of plastic wrap and place it in the freezer.

For ultimate convenience, snap-tight storage containers specifically designed for cakes can also be used. These containers provide an airtight seal, allowing you to freeze the cake with frosting intact.

When ready to serve, remove the frozen cake from the freezer and thaw it on the counter. The frosting may appear slightly dull, but overall, the cake will retain better quality compared to refrigerated or exposed options over three days.

If you prefer to bake the cake and freeze it before frosting and decorating, the freezer is still an ideal choice. Simply ensure the individual cooled layers are double-wrapped in plastic and stored in the freezer. This method preserves the cake for several weeks, even up to two to three months. However, take note that angel food or chiffon cakes do not freeze well.

Thaw the frozen layers on the counter, still wrapped in plastic, for 20 to 30 minutes when you are ready to frost and decorate. Freezing the layers in this manner, even overnight, facilitates easier trimming and reduces the number of crumbs that mix into the frosting.

By following these storage guidelines, you can properly store your cakes while preserving their freshness and ensuring they taste just as delightful as when they were freshly baked.