how to make a vintage wedding cake | 12 servings

1. Choose the Right Cake Flavors

Vintage wedding cakes are known for their subtle and delicate flavors. Begin by selecting flavors that are both timeless and sophisticated. Some of the best vintage-inspired cake flavors include:

• Vanilla Bean Cake: A classic flavor that never goes out of style.
• Almond Cake: A nutty, light flavor that adds a vintage touch.
• Lemon Cake: Adds a citrusy freshness, perfect for spring and summer weddings.
• Citrus or Berry Buttercream: Light and refreshing, these fillings complement the cake flavors.

You can mix and match these flavors to create a multi-tier cake with different tastes, ensuring there’s something for every guest.

2. Prepare the Cake Layers

Start by baking your cake layers. For a multi-tiered cake, you’ll need to bake several layers in different sizes (usually 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch). Here’s how:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to the recommended temperature for the cake recipe you’re using (usually around 350°F or 180°C).
2. Prepare Your Pans: Grease and flour the cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to ensure the cakes come out easily.
3. Mix the Cake Batter: Follow the recipe instructions for your selected flavor. Be sure to sift your dry ingredients and beat your batter until smooth.
4. Bake the Cakes: Pour the batter into the pans and bake according to the recipe’s time and temperature. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your cakes are done.
5. Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Make sure they cool completely before frosting.

3. Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

Vintage wedding cakes often feature delicate, smooth buttercream frosting. You can choose from different types of buttercream depending on your preference:

• Swiss Meringue Buttercream: Smooth, silky, and less sweet than American buttercream.
• Italian Meringue Buttercream: A buttery, glossy texture perfect for decorating.
• American Buttercream: Sweet and easy to work with, this is ideal for basic frosting and piping.

To make your buttercream:

1. Whisk the Egg Whites and Sugar (for meringue buttercreams): Whisk until they form soft peaks.
2. Add Butter: Gradually add softened butter to the egg mixture, whisking until smooth and fluffy.
3. Flavor the Frosting: Add vanilla extract or any flavoring that complements your cake.

Make enough buttercream to cover all your cake layers and to use for any piping or decorative work.

4. Assemble the Cake

Once your cakes and frosting are ready, it’s time to assemble the cake:

1. Level the Cakes: Use a serrated knife to level the tops of each cake layer so they stack evenly.
2. Apply a Crumb Coat: Spread a thin layer of buttercream over each layer to seal in any crumbs. Chill the cake for about 30 minutes to set this crumb coat.
3. Frost the Cake: After the crumb coat has set, apply a thicker layer of buttercream to the entire cake. Smooth it out with an offset spatula to create a flawless surface.

5. Decorate with Vintage Elements

Now comes the fun part—decorating your vintage wedding cake. There are many vintage design elements you can incorporate, such as:

• Edible Lace: Create or purchase edible lace to decorate the sides of your cake. This adds a delicate, vintage touch.
• Sugar Flowers: Handcraft or buy sugar flowers like roses, peonies, or hydrangeas to place on top of or around your cake.
• Piping: Use piping bags to create intricate designs such as lace-like patterns, scrolls, or floral motifs.
• Gold Accents: Add a touch of vintage luxury by painting parts of your cake with edible gold or silver dust.
• Vintage Cake Toppers: For a traditional look, use a vintage-inspired cake topper like a bride and groom figurine or a floral arrangement.

6. Add Final Touches

Once you’ve finished decorating your cake, consider adding some final touches:

• Fresh Flowers: Incorporate seasonal, fresh flowers such as roses, peonies, or ivy. These can be placed delicately on top or around the base of the cake.
• Ribbons: Wrap satin or lace ribbons around the base of the tiers for a romantic and vintage feel.
• Vintage-Inspired Plates or Stands: Display your cake on a vintage cake stand to enhance the overall vintage aesthetic.

7. Chill and Transport the Cake

Once your vintage wedding cake is completed, let it chill in the fridge for about an hour to firm up before transporting it to your wedding venue. Be sure to place it securely in your car to prevent any damage.