Filling a wedding cake with icing requires some care and precision to ensure a beautifully finished and delicious result. Here's a step-by-step guide on the best way to fill a wedding cake with icing:
Level and trim the cake layers: Start by leveling the tops of your cake layers to create an even surface. If the cakes have domed or uneven tops, use a serrated knife or cake leveler to trim them to an even height. This will make stacking and filling easier.
Prepare the icing: Choose a suitable icing for filling the cake. Common options include buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or ganache. Make sure the icing is at the right consistency for spreading. If it's too stiff, add a little milk or cream to soften it.
Create a dam: Before filling the cake, it's essential to create a "dam" around the edge of each layer. This prevents the filling from spilling out and keeps the layers stable. Use a piping bag fitted with a round tip to pipe a ring of icing around the edge of the cake layer.
Add the filling: Spoon or spread the desired filling (e.g., fruit preserves, lemon curd, chocolate ganache) within the dam you created. Be careful not to overfill, as this could cause the cake layers to shift or the filling to ooze out.
Stack the layers: Gently place the next cake layer on top of the filled layer. Press down lightly to level and secure it. Repeat the process with each layer, applying the dam and filling as necessary.
Crumb coat the cake: Before applying the final icing layer, it's essential to do a crumb coat. This thin layer of icing seals in any loose crumbs and provides a smooth base for the final icing layer. Spread a thin layer of icing over the entire cake, making sure to cover all the exposed cake surfaces.
Chill the cake: Once the crumb coat is applied, refrigerate the cake for about 15-30 minutes to set the icing.
Apply the final icing layer: After the crumb coat has set, spread a thicker layer of icing over the entire cake, including the top and sides. Use a spatula to smooth the icing and create a neat finish.
Decorate the cake: After the final icing layer is applied, you can proceed with decorating the wedding cake as desired. Add any additional frosting decorations, fondant accents, or fresh flowers, depending on the design.
Store the cake properly: If the wedding cake isn't going to be served immediately, store it in a cool, dry place or refrigerate it to keep it fresh until the big day.
Remember that filling and icing a wedding cake may require practice and patience, so consider doing a trial run with a smaller cake before tackling the final wedding cake. This will help you refine your technique and ensure the best results for the special occasion.