How to Store Cake: 5 Tips That Actually Work
You just picked up a beautiful custom cake from your baker in Rotterdam or Vlaardingen. Now what? How to store cake properly is something most people don't think about until their buttercream is sliding off the board. These five tips will keep your cake fresh and looking great until it's time to cut.
1. Keep It Cool, But Not Cold
Buttercream cakes do best at a cool room temperature — around 18-20°C. If your house is warmer than that, pop the cake in the fridge. But take it out at least 30 minutes before serving. Cold buttercream is stiff and mutes the flavor. You want it soft and creamy when your guests taste it.
2. Skip the Plastic Wrap Directly on the Cake
Plastic wrap sticks to buttercream and pulls the finish right off. If you need to cover the cake, use a cake box or place it under a large bowl. The goal is to block air without touching the surface. We send all our cakes in sturdy boxes for this reason — keep using it for storage.
3. Refrigerate If You Are Storing Overnight
For anything longer than a few hours, the fridge is your friend. Place the cake in its box on a flat shelf. Avoid the back of the fridge where it's coldest — you don't want ice crystals forming on the cream. Most buttercream cakes stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.
4. Never Store Next to Strong-Smelling Food
Buttercream absorbs smells. Your cake will taste like last night's curry if they share a shelf. Always keep the box closed, and if possible, clear some space so the cake isn't squeezed between leftovers.
5. Freeze Leftover Slices (Yes, Really)
Got leftover cake? Wrap individual slices tightly in cling film, then put them in a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before eating. It won't be identical to fresh, but it's surprisingly close.
Need a cake for your next event in Zuid-Holland? Start your custom cake order here and we'll make sure it arrives in perfect condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a buttercream cake last at room temperature?
Can you freeze a decorated cake?
Should I refrigerate a cake with buttercream frosting?
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