☀️ Cake Care Tips for Hot Weather

lolaade2011
5 days ago
2 min read

When the sun comes out in the UK, we all celebrate — but as cake decorators, we also get a little nervous. Hot weather and cake don’t always mix well, especially when dealing with delicate frosting like buttercream, rich ganache, or fondant finishes. Whether you have just picked up your cake from LolasBakes or another local baker, here’s how to keep it looking and tasting amazing.

1️⃣ Travel Smart: Keep It Flat

The safest way to travel with your cake is on a flat surface, like the footwell of the car or flat in the boot (trunk). Avoid holding the cake on your lap or placing it on the seat — even the smallest emergency stop could send it flying. Cakes are heavier than they look and not built for sudden movement!

2️⃣ Keep It Cool (Literally)

Make sure your air conditioning is on while travelling. If your car doesn’t have AC, try to pick up your cake early in the day or in the evening when the weather is cooler. Heat is not your cake’s friend — it can melt buttercream, soften ganache, and cause fondant to sweat or bulge.

3️⃣ Don’t Leave It in the Car

Tempted to pick up a few groceries after collecting your cake? Please don’t! Even 10 minutes in a warm car can cause irreversible damage. Always arrange to pick up your cake last, after any shopping or errands. Better yet, take your cake straight home, pop it in the fridge, then head out again if needed.

4️⃣ Once Home: Chill Wisely

Once your cake is home, place it on the top shelf of the fridge — this helps avoid spills or strong fridge odours. Buttercream and ganache cakes especially benefit from a cool environment, and even fondant cakes can go in the fridge during hot weather (despite myths saying otherwise — condensation can be managed with proper handling).

5️⃣ Serving Your Cake

About 45 minutes to 1 hour before cutting, take the cake out and let it come to room temperature in a cool, shaded spot. This gives the cake time to soften to that perfect eating texture. Never leave your cake in direct sunlight — it can melt decorations, fade colours, and soften structural details.

6️⃣ Cut Like a Pro

When you’re ready to cut your cake, use a clean, sharp knife, and wipe the blade between slices. This not only keeps your cake looking neat, but also helps preserve its structure for leftovers.

Extra Tips From Years in the Kitchen

If your event is outdoors, keep your cake inside until you’re ready to cut it.
Avoid placing cakes near radiators, windows, or strong heat sources — even indoors.
For weddings and long events, talk to your decorator about cake support, delivery options, or heat-stable frosting choices (like white chocolate ganache or hybrid buttercreams).

Final Word Your cake is not just dessert — it’s part of your celebration’s story. A little care goes a long way to keeping it looking fabulous and tasting its best. If in doubt, just ask your baker. We love to help!

With buttercream and gratitude,

Lola

Owner & Head Baker,

LolasBakes