Learn how to cut a round cake in order to get the most servings! Whether tall, short, or full of layers, this cake-cutting hack is the best way to feed a crowd so that everyone gets enough cake.
We all have that designated person who we let cut our cakes for any celebration. Or is it just my family? When it was time to cut the cake, we always looked for my aunt. To be fair, she’s been in the catering business for years and years, so it just made sense.
I mean let’s be real, it can be dreadful when it’s time to cut the cake, especially for the first time. What is the ideal serving size? How do we make sure everyone gets a piece? Extra people showed up, will there be enough cake? Will there be enough for leftovers?
Well thanks to the cake industry and its never-ending trends and innovations, we now have a better way and a new cake-cutting technique perfect to serve a crowd.
Most people would cut a round cake into triangles because it’s the ordinary method. It’s what we are all used to seeing and doing, but unfortunately, it’s not the most practical. With all the time and/or money you spent on a beautiful cake, we want to make sure everyone gets to partake and that there isn’t too much waste.
While there truly is no right or wrong way to cut a cake, there is a better way! The best way to cut any round cake is in squares. Let me show you how!
How to Cut a Round Cake
Step 1: Remove Decorations: If necessary, start by removing all cake decorations.
Step 2: Score Cake: Using a knife, score the top of the cake into even vertical lines. Start by making the first score in the middle of the cake and work your way out.
Step 3: Slice Cake: Next, using the guidelines you just scored, in a gentle sawing motion, slice the cake all the way down, through all the layers of cake. With a cutting board behind it, lie the full cake slab onto the board.
Step 4: Cut Cake Into Even Columns: Cut the cake slab into even columns or strips.
Step 5: Cut Columns in Half: Cut each column in half or thirds. Make sure the slices are even and use your judgement on how big each slice should be. Depending on the size of the cake you can get more or less. A taller cake with more cake layers can yield more slices of cake than you think. You can make these square cuts into smaller pieces if you prefer.
Place each slice of cake on a dessert plate and serve to your guests, be sure to store away any remaining portions.
Helpful Tips for Cutting a Round Cake
Use a good knife! It’s best to use a serrated knife or bread knife when cutting cakes. They are specifically made for cutting things with a soft inside.
Chill the cake. We all prefer eating cake at room temperature, so I recommend popping the cake in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before cutting! Don’t worry your guests won’t be eating cold cake! We just want to chill the cake enough to let the frosting set, which will give you a cleaner cut, reducing any cake crumb.
Clean the knife after each cut. Keep a cup of hot water and a napkin on hand to clean the knife after each cut. Be sure to dry the knife completely, the knife should still be warm to the touch. This will keep the cuts clean and nice looking and also minimize crumbing.
Have a cutting board ready. For easy cutting and less mess, use a cutting board to place the cake slabs on.
Work with one cake slab at a time. Take it slow and perform the steps all the way through, with one slab of cake at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a layer cake?
A layer cake is a cake that has multiple layers within it. Nowadays, you’ll usually find that professional bakers use 3-4 layers of cake, with buttercream, jams, or other fillings in between each layer, resulting in a taller cake.
How do I store leftover cake slices?
Wrap each cake slice in saran wrap and place them in an air-tight container. You can store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, allow the cake to come to room temperature.
Does this technique work on any cake?
Absolutely! You can cut all party cakes, whether a wedding cake, square cake, or tiered cake, using this technique! Just be sure to follow the helpful tips and exact instructions mentioned above.
And there you have it! A piece of cake, pun intended. The next time you need to cut a round cake, follow these simple steps and practices and you’ll have a perfectly cut cake every time!
xoxo, ave
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