How Far In Advance Can You Bake Cakes? | When To Start Decorating Cakes

One of the questions I get asked the most...What's your cake decorating timeline? I am going to talk about baking cakes in advance and when to start decorating cakes. I'll also let you know when I consider myself booked and how I plan my cake weeks.
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TOOLS I USED (some items are not exactly what I used, but a good substitute):
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VIDEOS I REFERENCED:
HOW I ORGANIZE MY CAKE ORDERS - • The Paperwork Side of ...
HOW TO MAKE NUMBER CAKE TOPPERS - • FONDANT NUMBER 1 POLKA...
HOW TO USE EDIBLE IMAGES - • Using My New Edible Im...
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Karolyn’s Kakes
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All songs used from KZbin Audio Library
Intro Song: Dive Down by VYEN
Background Song: Sunset n Beachz by Ofshane
End Song: Benji by Dyalla
If you have read all of this, thank you! I really appreciate your support!
I read all comments and try to respond the best I can. 😊
Xoxo,
Karolyn
#CakeDecoratingTimeline #WhenToBake #KarolynsKakes
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Karolyn’s Kakes provides cake decorating tutorials and tips to help you make amazing cakes.
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• How Far In Advance Can...

[@KarolynsKakes]

If you enjoy my tutorials, I'd be so grateful if you'd Buy Me A Coffee! ☕🙏 www.buymeacoffee.com/KarolynsKakes

[@user-ix9kw5lm5l]

I wish there was an Arabic subtitle on your educational program 😢

[@Itsjusstlexx]

Omg this is exactly what I needed! Thank you so much ! I was draining myself making 2 cakes within 2 days! Also because of the “fresh” controversy lol Now I feel more comfortable taking more cake orders. I’ve been decorating cakes for 6 years part time and recently quit my full time job to focus on my cakes full time. Your channel has taught me so much. I cannot thank you enough 💖💖💖💖💖🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@KarolynsKakes]

Awwww you're welcome Steph! Cakes last longer than 2 days! LOL And good luck with your business, that's so exciting 💜🙏

[@sweetmimisestscha]

Thank you karolyn!!! 💕💕💕

[@louiselemon9717]

I value your insight! Thanks

[@marypenza4292]

Thanks K! So helpful!!

[@marciaschaefer6274]

Thank you so much!

[@brendajantjies6156]

This info will definitely help thanks a lot🙏

[@jogrant3851]

Oh, thank you. Can plan now for my first cake, haha. So excited.

[@louiselemon9717]

Thanks Karolyn! ❤

[@cindylepo6784]

Thanks for sharing!

[@junerimmington1350]

Thank you very helpful

[@juliematon7461]

Brilliant video thanks really helped😊

[@anitabadeau4866]

Great information. Thanks

[@juca1302]

Thank you for always sharing your knowledge ❤

[@nshvh]

Thank youuuuuu!

[@ashleyprichard5654]

Thank you so much for all of your knowledge that you share! I love your channel and feel so much more confident because of your channel.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Ashley! This is great, thank you so much!

[@hiyamzumot9303]

Love your videos. Thank you soooo much; you helped me a lot ❤️

[@KarolynsKakes]

You're welcome Hiyam! I'm happy to help!

[@ciliamartinez8478]

I Love how detailed & how clear you are. Thank you sooo much for sharing.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Glad it was helpful!😊🙏

[@nickyrobinson701]

Thank you so much for sharing! Love your channel!

[@KarolynsKakes]

You are so welcome!

[@babigurlgapeach]

As usual, very informative and helpful. Tfs!!

[@KarolynsKakes]

🥰🥰

[@estherwottge6397]

Wow! Thank you so much for sharing this and all of your other tips, and cake info . You are an amazing woman that shares her gifts with others ! Your Cakes are AMAZING! 🥰 Blessings my Friend

[@KarolynsKakes]

Esther, you're welcome honey!! 💜🙏

[@wendycaicedo822]

I love your videos! Thanks for the info.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Thank you Wendy! 🥰🥰

[@tlcee0310]

Thank you for this !!! I’ve just started and I work full time! Thank you for your help !!

[@KarolynsKakes]

You're so welcome!

[@Ryeshia]

Thank you so much for your expertise, knowledge, and wisdom!! Keep on keeping on! You have changed MY mindset on baking ahead. On Pound cakes, after baked and plastic wrapped, do you freeze them as well? Or just refrigerate them? When they're ready to be sold, then you unwrap them and box them? If that makes sense!

[@MultiGemgirl]

love your videos thanks for sharing with us

[@KarolynsKakes]

Thanks for watching!😊

[@ruthnodecker7759]

I was just thinking the other day I would love to see you do this video 🥰 perfect!! And thank you so much 🥰

[@KarolynsKakes]

See?! I knew! 🤣

[@ruthnodecker7759]

@@KarolynsKakes Yes you did😁😁

[@MAIRALUV]

You are so Amazing for sharing this information!!!! Thank youuuuuuu

[@KarolynsKakes]

You are so welcome!

[@lozzylols]

I have only just come across your videos when looking up about making some cakes, and can I say you are an amazing woman, I can't wait to watch more videos! Take care x

[@KarolynsKakes]

Awww Lolly, you're the sweetest! Thank you! 💜🙏

[@karlac3448]

Just wanted to stop by and say thank you for your videos. Any question I’ve ever had I come on your page and find the answer :) I appreciate you!

[@KarolynsKakes]

Awww you're welcome girl! Glad I could help!

[@janaventransom6354]

Thank you so much for this video. I'm working on a 2nd cake refrigerator now. I have some kitchen remodeling to fit another refrigerator. Your cakes are always 🔥. I packaged a cake like you do for the first time yesterday. I'm working on it being neater. Customer like it.😊

[@KarolynsKakes]

It's so much easier when you have at least 2 fridges!☺

[@juqettalawson4354]

You're the best girl! 😊 the best!

[@KarolynsKakes]

☺️☺️

[@reneeno2921]

This is so amazing, thank you for this video My timeline is usually filled with panic but I must say baking and freezing ahead of time has helped with my last few cakes.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yes! It really helps when you can have everything baked in advance and just fill / ice / decorate when needed!

[@flomewober5436]

Thanks for your teaching mam

[@isabelandrade3875]

Omg your the best teacher 🙌🏻 honestly I see your videos and always give me the best advice. I’m trying to bake cakes Thursday and decorate cakes Friday and Saturday before pick up . I’m a total mess 😢 thank you 🙏

[@KarolynsKakes]

You're welcome Isabel! Yeah you need more time. That will be less stressful!

[@liznunez2040]

Just wanted to say thank you for all your helpful advise. Growing up I would go with my mom to the local high school where they offered cake decorating classes at night, back then sheet cakes were the in thing. Listening to your videos has really given me the courage to start decorating cakes again. Once again Thank you.

[@KarolynsKakes]

I love this Liz! My mom actually did the same thing, she took cake classes at the high school in the 70's. And it was all about the sheet cakes and piping with the star tip! I'm glad you're getting back into it 😊🙌

[@pelogadi76]

Yo are a genius 😱 Leaving your fondant decorations inside bags!?! 🤯🤯 That's a great idea, thank you

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yes!!! It’s the only way I’m able to take on so many orders!

[@elaineclark2863]

Really good tips thank you

[@KarolynsKakes]

Glad it was helpful!

[@barbaracline9504]

This is perfect! Very similar to how I do it. Funny story. I showed up to a friends house for a birthday party with a fully decorated 2 tier fondant cake. She answered the door in pj's and apologized and said everyone inside was sick. She grabbed the cake and quickly shut the door so I wouldn't get the cooties 🤣 A week later she gets the UNWRAPPED cake out of the FREEZER where she hastily shoved it and everyone at the new party raved at how delicious and MOIST it was 🤣♥️ Now I would never suggest doing that. But really cake is protected by the icing and fondant.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yes!! Once it’s iced it’s really good. And look at that, it wasn’t even wrapped well and it still survived. That’s amazing.

[@jessecarpenter3628]

I'd love to see and try both maple syrup and coffee flavored.

[@delilahs1099]

Lately, I’ve been coming back to your old videos because it never fails that when I have a question you answer it! I have been so freaking busy lately and this video really helped me so that I can start my cakes today for Saturday and Sunday. Thanks always.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Love you!! 💜

[@chea591]

Thank you so much for this. I always do my cakes last minute and always in a rush from start to finish. My cakes are completely scratch so I do get worried about them not being fresh enough. I love your idea about making the decorations in advance so I’ll definitely try these tips to save myself of the pressure and last minute stress. Thank you 😊

[@KarolynsKakes]

You're welcome honey, I'm glad this was helpful!

[@zayrivergara2203]

Thanks SO MUCH

[@KarolynsKakes]

You're welcome!

[@zubeidawaqar4833]

Thank you for this video,it is really very helpful.I have to make a 3 tier cake by nexf week and I'm relieved that I actually did the right thing by baking the cakes a week earlier.I've wrapped them in plastic wrap and will start with the first ganache coat tomorrow.😊

[@KarolynsKakes]

Glad it was helpful!

[@michelebostwick3242]

Hi Karolyn, I'm wondering about your timeline for making icing and fondant. Do you have certain days that you do those tasks? Do you just do it when you need to (if you are running low?) About how much icing and fondant do you make? I know you use a lot, so I'm wondering if you make a TON of it to last a week or two or if you end up making them once a week? I'd love a "week in the life of my cake business" video, where you show us what you do each week or each cycle (starting with baking on Friday). Just a video suggestion. Thanks!

[@mecheleclasson]

Very good and important video

[@KarolynsKakes]

Thank you girl!

[@shaundralawson]

I really appreciate your openest about cakes..I am trying to manage time better..I been staying up all night doing the cake the day before its due..Only would have one order..This is a game changer..I am still new to making fondant decorations..Thanks

[@KarolynsKakes]

It's an old school theory that you have to make a cake the day before! I recently had people pick up their cakes a week early because I was going away on vacation and they said their cakes were still good. I don't do that frequently, but just know that they don't go bad in one day!

[@normamoreno8019]

I’m a hobby baker and I’ve been freezing my cakes forever. They’re always good and moist. I’m also amazed as how fast they thawed. So yes. It’s fine.

[@KarolynsKakes]

It's this weird fresh thing that people have! For some reason, they think it has to be baked and eaten within a day. It actually tastes better after it's frozen and thawed!💯

[@bridgettchapman5020]

Oh thank you! Your giving me hope that I don’t need to redo my cake! I accidentally thought the cake was due on the 16 but it turns out it’s the 18! I took frozen cakes out on the 15 I’m praying my cake lasts until the 18! I’m going to wrap it up real well in Saran Wrap keep in the fridge fingers crossed!

[@KarolynsKakes]

I do it all the time with no issues so I would think that you would be fine!

[@healthyliving9601]

I bake then freeze then thawed then free after I decorate the cakes this past Halloween n it was still moist n it was good

[@SugarSugarCreek]

Hi Karolyn, one more thing I do on weeks where the workload is heavy is, make my boards and boxes and any packaging that is needed. Sometimes that's one of those tedious last minute things that having it already done helps too 😊

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yessss!! Same here! It's SO much better when that's all prepared. 🎉

[@thecupcakelady2014]

Awesome content! I would love to see you complete a cake from start to finish (edited of course, lol)

[@KarolynsKakes]

I have that on my list, it's just a lot to film and edit, so I have to figure out when I can get that done. I'll eventually get to it though!

[@kamsysworld]

Am a home baker and I have been freezing my cake and it tastes so delicious 😋

[@KarolynsKakes]

Right?! It really changes the game! And makes our lives so much easier!

[@dawnhanley9600]

Hi Karolyn, this video is so awesome! Couple of questions. At what point in the process do you add your supports and stack? Also, how do you let cakes that have perishable fillings settle? Thank you and you rock 🥰💕

[@KarolynsKakes]

I stack the day after they are iced and in the refrigerator overnight. That way the icing is really solid and I won't mess it up. To speed up the settling process, this is what I do:kzbin.info2Dg2DxNa1VE

[@aminatakamara6959]

You got new follower love your energy

[@KarolynsKakes]

Awwww thank you Aminata! 💜

[@gigirod3958]

I’m your newest #1 fan!

[@KarolynsKakes]

Awww my #1 fan!! 🥰🥰 Thank you love!

[@karenlewis3876]

Hi Karolyn. I Absolutely LOVE you and your videos! I've been a cake designer since 2012. Sugar, Icing, frosting, fondant all act as preservatives keeping cakes moist and fresh. I learned this from Chef Toba Garrett (author and award winning cake designer) at the International Culinary Institute in New York City where Chef Toba is an instructor. If you ever need to explain - again - why the cakes stay so moist and fresh, this is why. Like sealing a door with varnish to protect the wood from the elements, You're sealing your cakes with icing to lock in the moisture and freshness.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Say it louder for the people in the back!! I made my boyfriend a birthday cake and we were still eating it 9 days later. I don’t know where this came from. Cake (prepared properly) doesn’t go bad in a day!

[@belindacollins3880]

Hello and thank you for the content that you are sharing. I’m an aspiring baker but I’m having so much trouble believing in myself which has caused me to not want to bake. I feel as though I need professional training but your videos have been so helpful and make me fill as if I can do it. I recently baked a cake for someone and the review was devastating to me. She said my cake was dry and crumbly and most of it was thrown in the trash. It was a graduation cake so I feel I ruined a special day.I’m glad I found you and your words of encouragement on how to take it in and move on really has given me some hope. Any words of encouragement would be great to help me wanna get back into the game.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Oh no! It's the worst feeling. It's happened to me before. But I appreciate the feedback because I was able to modify my recipe to make sure my cakes weren't dry. (I started freezing them while still warm, making sure I wasn't overbaking, spraying the layers with simple syrup, etc.) I've learned to not focus too much on the negative feedback, but to use it as a learning experience. It's not always going to be perfect. But that's how we grow! Keep going.

[@angiericouard792]

I had to freeze a 2 tiered cake, full decorated for a week because the party place lost power that day. It was perfect! People don’t realize how many bakers freeze, even big box bakery’s, and doctor mixes

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yes!! I have had people cancel parties and freeze the entire thing for weeks and it was fine! And there are MANY who do the same as you mentioned. Not a lot are vocal about it though!

[@belindateye4792]

What is doctor mixes

[@angiericouard792]

@@belindateye4792 when you take a box cake mix, but don’t follow the directions on the box and use things in place of the water and such.

[@SugarSugarCreek]

My culinary school taught us to freeze as part of the process so...don't feel you can't 😊

[@sallylovett1997]

I ❤❤❤ your videos !!! Please do one on maintaining and using an edible image printer. I usually buy my image sheets from someone else but I’m very tempted to purchase a printer myself

[@KarolynsKakes]

I have a whole playlist of edible printer tutorials! kzbin.info/aero/PLoJy_gYrOSzZKt3IKqgLO_bOwUIko2rjh

[@sallylovett1997]

@@KarolynsKakes oh thank you!!!

[@aquinocakesandcupcakes]

Wow!! Thank you so much for all of the info. I just started following you and I appreciate all of the info that you provide. I was struggling by baking the cakes, let them cool, decorate them, finish them and not knowing how to store them. I do have a question, so after the cakes are decorated and done, do I keep them in the fridge without wrapping, boxing nothing?? Thanks!!

[@KarolynsKakes]

You're welcome Heidi! I have done both, I've kept them wrapped and unwrapped in the fridge. It all depends on when I get the pictures taken and sent to the customer for approval. Either way, I haven't had issues with them!

[@derail6969]

You were very helpful and correct, shamelessly last minute purchase I've purchased from Publix and they bake a freeze and it's longer than your duration and it made no difference the cake was fine.

[@KarolynsKakes]

I wish everyone knew this! Freezing cakes makes them better!

[@RG-rk1cb]

Hi Katie, thank you for sharing your experiences and timeline for baking and decorating a cake. I am looking forward to baking a layered and filled cake for a birthday on a Saturday morning. For example the party is on Saturday morning. I bake the cake on previous Friday and freeze it. So when should I thaw the cake from freezer ? Leave it in refrigerator on Monday night and do the filing on Tuesday or thaw on Tuesday night and fill and ice it on Wednesday/ Thursday? Do you have any videos on thawing and filling ? Thank you in advance

[@KarolynsKakes]

I don't thaw in the fridge. To thaw, I take them out of the freezer, keep them wrapped up, and let them sit at room temperature until they thaw. You can thaw Tuesday / Wednesday, fill / ice on Wednesday / Thursday, and decorate Thursday / Friday depending on your schedule. Here's how I fill cakes: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rX-Zqpqrg9ynha8 I don't show them thawing. But I literally just take them out like 4 hours before I fill them and leave them on the table.

[@tracyvass742]

Awesome tutorial, as usual! I was wondering if you could do a tutorial on edible images, printing and affixing to fondant, buttercream, or what have you! Thank you so much!!

[@KarolynsKakes]

Hey Trac! Here are some videos that explain that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKaXoYqhd61kfNE

[@KarolynsKakes]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHfbmKmPhdirmrc

[@KarolynsKakes]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZfGYZubmrKFo7s

[@leysachichi]

Love it! So helpful 💕 Quick question: does your decorations stay in place or get any damage after you take the cake out of the fridge and start to sweats? Do you have a video of the customer pickup process?

[@KarolynsKakes]

I don't have issues with decorations getting ruined. But you must keep the environment that the cake is in cool at all times so it doesn't sweat. Here's a video explaining that! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHOummCFbNtsbtk

[@roycelyngray4447]

Thank you, for this informative video. I have a few questions. Do you have double ovens? What type of freezer and refrigerators do you have? Where are they located in your home? Did you have to redesign space in your home for you home baking business?

[@KarolynsKakes]

I don’t have a double oven. That would be nice though! I have older Whirlpool fridges that were bought at a scratch and dent type of store. I prefer the ones with the freezer on top because there’s more room for cakes. They are in my kitchen so yeah it takes up a lot of space and things had to be rearranged to fit them.

[@delilahs1099]

I also bake a week ahead but I start filling, crumb coat, stacking etc. 2 days in advance and then start putting the decorations. After what happened to me last weekend I’m definitely going to finish them earlier!

[@delilahs1099]

And…. I was always scared of stacking heavy cakes side by side but I see yours are fine! I have glass shelves and I freak out. 😂

[@littlelady3895]

I am disabled, so I only bake cakes for friends and family, not as a business. But if I know I have an event coming up, like a birthday or wedding, and I have to cook all the food on top of the cake, decorations entertainment, I will even bake the cake layers 2-3 months in advance, but I double wrap and then put into 2-2.5 gallon ziplock bags, I also place paper towels in there like one on top one on bottom and each side. And remove as much air as I can. This way it doesn't get frost bite/freezer burn. The papertowels catch any extra MOISTURE that happens when you freeze for long time frame.

[@KarolynsKakes]

@@littlelady3895 Love this, thank you for the tip! And I get stressed just making wedding cakes, I can't imagine having to make all the food too!

[@KarolynsKakes]

@@delilahs1099 It happens once and then never again🤣🤣

[@HopesMomE]

Ha! My daughter will eat her leftover birthday cake in the fridge for a week plus and will then gnaw on any leftovers that I manage to get in the freezer for weeks!! In fact, her birthday was 1st week of June and I caught her eating bday cake for breakfast two days ago. 😂 She assured me it was still delicious. 😉 So, no concerns about "freshness" at our house. Between her verification and your process, I'm going to start freezing more cakes too, instead of killing myself! 😓😏 Thanks Karolyn....not only are the Kakes amazing, but you are too! ❤️

[@KarolynsKakes]

Thank you honey! I seriously don't know why everyone thinks cakes aren't fresh after a day. I've done what your daughter's doing and have eaten cake that was weeks old (stored correctly) and it was still really good!

[@littlelady3895]

Just wanna say, I love all your videos. Even when it pertains to something I don't normally do I watch because I love to learn new things. I have only done fondent one 1 cake. I was really new to doing cakes for friends so it took me for ever but they loved it. My question is do you do a Simple Syrup to help keep the cakes moist. I understand and agree freezing them helps seal in all the moisture. But do you do additional, like simple syrup? And if so do you add it before freezing or after thawing? My cakes have all been pretty moisture, I only did simple syrup once (it was requested) which I found is a bad idea when it's naturally a moist cake, you freeze it, and use a simple syrup and a pureed fruit filling. All that MOISTURE kept seeping through my buttercream frosting. Thank you so much for all the Information you share. You are such an inspiration to the rest of us. God Bless

[@KarolynsKakes]

Thank you! I do use simple syrup on all of my cakes. However, I don’t pour it on. I put it in a spray bottle and lightly spray each layer as I’m filling the cake. I have a video on how I fill cakes and I show it in there!

[@kathrynkiphart4539]

Could you do a video on how you box up your cakes for delivery. I’m so glad I found your channel. I have customers say they want it fresh. I always tell them it will be… Lordy…. Lol. Oh just wanted to ask . I use your doctored cake mix method and was wondering does the tops of your cakes come out how can I say it a little hard on top. Just the top. Is that how your comes out. I cut the tops off and it’s just fine.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Not too hard. You want to take it out of the oven a little earlier if that's happening. And here is a video on wrapping up cakes for delivery! kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ65o5ttj7OkiNk

[@clarissahohensee9854]

Awesome! I baked and frozen my cakes on Sunday and took them out of the freezer today...thursday..filled with strawberries and crumb coated in the fridge until tomorrow on Friday when I will finish the cake and party is Saturday afternoon!

[@alemtsehaygetachew1794]

Hi karolyn i just want to know after u bake z cake are u rubbing it after it cools or direct from z oven i love all what u'r doing thanks

[@KarolynsKakes]

Hi! I'm not sure what you're asking about rubbing the cake? Can you clarify what you mean?

[@traceymullin7937]

Thanks for the video! Sounds like you're working 7 days a week! Do you give yourself scheduled days off? Also, when do you work on what the designs will look like before the actual decorating? Are you looking for inspiration/researching a theme, sketching it out, figuring out what you're going to do, etc when you take the order, or the day you start decorating? Do you have a "book work/computer" day where you're just doing those types of things and not decorating? It takes me forever to figure out what font I want to use, what size, how big to make the edible images, then resizing them. Before I know it, the day is almost over and I didn't even start decorating yet, lol!

[@KarolynsKakes]

I try, next weekend is my anniversary so my boyfriend and I are taking 2 days off. And I usually try to schedule a vacation once or twice a year. But other than that, I work almost every day. Owning a business, there is always something to do! When I'm not making cakes, I'm answering emails or doing paperwork or shopping for ingredients / supplies. But it's all good because I love it!

[@KingdomLifeDec]

@KarolynKakes see I know the work it takes when I'm just working on ONE! ONE! CAKE! And I truly do love this,but I got 4 kids , 3 still at home and 2 younger ones that constantly need me throughout all day. So I I constantly have to stop my work through the day with that just one cake I'd get order once a month or every other month. It becomes frustrating, because I love my children they need my attention and I give it, but I also love the cake work abd art it takes, but it's like I CANT PROMOTE MYSELF TO GET MORE BUSINESS BECAUSE JUST ONE CAKE ALONE stresses me so much and I know everything is work, I know BUT IT ENDS UP MORE FRUSTRATING THAN FUN DOING THIS. I LOVE IT TOO. I'm just trying to figure this out where im being mom first and not living in kitchen all day everyday either for preparing meals, cleaning or making cakes and so forth. It's a struggle. Being between 2 thing you love so much. Do you have kids?

[@michellenitschke5485]

Hi Karolyn, I'm not a cake decorator but somehow found your channel and am loving it ! This was very interesting , Thankyou . Could you do a video or just mention how you package a cake for pick up? When you showed the cakes in your fridge I thought geeze I'd be nervous trying to get them home safely, especially the 3 tiered cake !!

[@KarolynsKakes]

Here ya go, I hope it helps! It's not bad driving with cakes if you do it right! kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ65o5ttj7OkiNk

[@adrianashephard250]

Thank you for yet another helpful video! Was wondering how many days in advance i can make fondant flowers or I guess the better question is in general how many days fondant decor is good for?

[@KarolynsKakes]

I typically make decorations up to 5 days in advance with no problem. If you need them to dry with a curve, you'll want to set them on a cake dummy the size of the cake you're putting it on. 😊

[@jen9216]

Can you do a video on what is required in your space to start a home bakery? I live in Pennsylvania snd was wondering if any special requirements. Thank you,

[@KarolynsKakes]

Email me at [e-mail] and I can send you the packet I have for Limited Food Establishments in PA. It goes over all of the requirements to apply for the home bakery!

[@dv8816]

Hi Karolyn, Love your videos. Do you always refrigerate your buttercream cakes when finished icing? I made one a few months back, before watching you, and left it out overnight and it was ok. Also, can I put in refrigerator covered, I notice yours are not covered. Thanks so much!!!!

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yes, all of my cakes go in the fridge once they are iced. I never put an un-iced cake in the refrigerator because it can dry out. I don't wrap up my cakes until I finish them and take the picture and text it to the customer. I only put cakes in my fridges, so there's nothing else in there that could ruin the cake (like garlic or onions). So I don't need to wrap them up.

[@charlenemorris6332]

I have an event on Sunday but doing crumb coating the first 2 days next day decorations is that good

[@KarolynsKakes]

That should be good!

[@franciscaemordychannel5010]

Thank you ma'am I enjoyed your video, but please do you store fondant cakes in the fridge.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yes! I've been doing that over 20 years, here's a video explaining it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mHOzm3qwerKNl9k

[@griceldaleon2001]

How long does it take to thaw a cake (by size and height)? Because naturally, a 6” round 1” high layer of cake would thaw faster than a 12” 2” cake layer.

[@mariangies]

Hi Karolyn, so when you say you do doctored cakes. Do yiu lean you bake box cakes? And do you have a video making it? Tfs.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yes! I have tons of videos on my channel showing different box cake recipes. Here's one of them! kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z6PHgWOfftyDatk

[@sweetartcakes]

THANK YOU for sharing your knowledge. I thaw my cakes Monday night in a refrigerator and Tuesday morning realized that I might be a day to early because it is due Friday. So I would fill and crumb coat Tuesday. Frost Wednesday and stack Wednesday evening as well. That means I can take pictures all day Thursday lol But when I watched your video and If I understand right, your cakes are finished the the day before as well? Meaning Thursday you would be taking pictures?

[@KarolynsKakes]

It all depends on what I have going on for the week. But, yes, for the most part, they are done a day before pickup. This way, I can text the pictures and get approval. And in the rare instance that something needs to be changed, I have the time to do it! I personally feel like having the cake done 1-2 days in advance doesn't make a difference. If you bake it correctly, it will still be fresh!

[@KingdomLifeDec]

Wow. See. No wonder I am always having a hard time with taking pictures of my cakes. Because I'm always trying to get it done just before delivery or pick up🥴🥴😩😩. So I been so wrong on this. Because I can hardly ever get good pictures. Also, have you ever had problems where sending pictures for "approval" that close to delivery, a problem? I once heard another cake baker on youtube suggest NOT TO do this because than the clien will be going back and forth with you about changes. And ain't nobody got tiem for that every time, if thet trying to make changes last minute 🤷‍♀️😩🥴. I'm genuinely curious to know how this has worked for you? I do think it be a nice thing to do. But wouldn't this create a problem too,if time to delivery is close and than they want to make big changes here and there? TIA?

[@lynnestoner4765]

Hi Karolyn! You are so fun to watch. I just go from one video to another. I don't sell cakes, but I am doing 100 cupcakes and a 4" cake for the bride and groom and I'm freaking out about the timing. Do you sell cupcakes and if so, how do you keep them moist? It's so different when you can't seal them with icing. Oh help!

[@KarolynsKakes]

Take a deep breath, you’ll be okay! 🤣 When I make cupcakes, I let them cool about 2 minutes. And then put them on a cookie sheet or a piece of cardboard and wrap them up in plastic wrap and freeze them. When you freeze them as they are still warm, it will help keep them moist. And then I thaw and ice them the day before with no issues. I hope that helps!

[@lynnestoner4765]

@@KarolynsKakes Ahhhh...Thank you so much! I was just so worried they would be dry without the icing covering the whole cupcake

[@Pkbgh]

Hi, wanted to clarify if the frozen cake can be thawed on the kitchen counter overnight or needs to be thawed in the refrigerator section below. Thank you for this video, so helpful

[@KarolynsKakes]

I take it out of the freezer and thaw on the countertop. Not in the fridge! ☺️

[@tamaraburdick528]

How do you box your cakes? Especially the taller ones!?

[@KarolynsKakes]

Here's one way: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKazn3eFa5d4ldE

[@KarolynsKakes]

I show another way in the beginning of this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ65o5ttj7OkiNk

[@zaneblane8160]

Awesome! Would you ice a cake out of the fridge? Or just totally thawed? Why/why not? ❤️

[@KarolynsKakes]

I only frost thawed (room temperature) cake layers. I don't want to take the chance of condensation forming under the icing and making it bubble or sweat! Here's a video explaining it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWHdpX9pjrJ8hdU

[@mariacasella5875]

Hi Karolyn, how do you pack the cakes for delivery can you do a video on this?

[@KarolynsKakes]

Here ya go! Preparing Your Cake For Delivery | Keeping Your Cake Cool In The Summer kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ65o5ttj7OkiNk

[@mariacasella5875]

@@KarolynsKakes thanks so much

[@oliviahiland9551]

This video is so helpful. I’ve been baking for a few years and never knew I could freeze ahead of time. If I don’t bake the cake in enough time to freeze, is a couple days in the refrigerator good too. Will it still be moist? Also if I’m only crumb coating the cake, can I do that two days in advance and refrigerate it? Or does it need to be crumb coated the day of to keep it fresh tasting. I have a cake order for a Sunday, but I want to have it crumb coated on Friday. Thanks!

[@KarolynsKakes]

I would never keep an un-iced cake in the refrigerator, it will dry out. I usually freeze overnight. So my cakes are only in the freezer for about 24 hours. That's enough time to trap in the moisture! If you crumb coat the cake, it should be fine in the fridge for 2 days. I've done that plenty of times with no issue!

[@griceldaleon2001]

PLEASE 🙏 share with us YOUR cake freezing strategy? Can you please make a video to show us how you wrap and store in the freezer without it getting distorted or dented. Thank you 🙏

[@KarolynsKakes]

Added to my list of videos to make!🙌

[@RhondaWillisPage-so6kw]

Karolyn, can you freeze fondant covered cakes or just buttercream?

[@KarolynsKakes]

You can freeze fondant cakes. Just make sure you thaw them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before you're going to eat it. You want it to thaw gradually. If you take it out of the freezer directly on to the countertop, you will most likely have condensation issues!

[@jacquelinelucca2069]

Thanks for sharing how do you wrap your cakes to preserve freshness before decorating ?

[@jacquelinecasabella2548]

She made another video. She uses seram wrap. Double wraps it and puts it in freezer.

[@dangermouse6687]

Thanks Karolyn. I'm still working full time, retiring in June, so am often under pressure for getting cakes done. This is a great help for me to get better organised.

[@jacquelinelucca2069]

@@jacquelinecasabella2548 Thanks so much I will look for it ☺️

[@KarolynsKakes]

I let them cool for a few minutes when they come out of the oven. Then I wrap them in food safe plastic wrap and freeze them to trap in the moisture!

[@jacquelinelucca2069]

@@KarolynsKakes thank so much for all your videos ❤️

[@joperez7143]

I baked a cake and we tried it yesterday and it was dry😢 now I'm worried about a tiered cake that I have today. It was done the same time and I used the spray sugar as well.

[@KarolynsKakes]

The sugar spray may help a little. You may have baked it too long. It happens to all of us!

[@enma1219]

Hi. Thank you for this video. Question though: How long can cakes in general be kept in the freezer before thawing, icing, and decorating? If more than a month, will it still stay moist? Also, can/should I add simple syrup after thawing to make sure it is still moist?

[@KarolynsKakes]

You can freeze longer than 1 month. If you do, then I would double wrap in plastic wrap and store in a ziplock bag or airtight container. It will stay moist! And I spray a light coating of simple syrup on all of my thawed cake layers!

[@enma1219]

@@KarolynsKakes Awesome! Thank you for replying. 🤗

[@jacquelinecasabella2548]

What filings do you offer?? Do you do fresh fruit? I'm trying to figure out if so, does it still taste fine if the cakes are sitting iced in the fridge? Ty

[@KarolynsKakes]

I don't do fresh fruit fillings because I don't want the fruit to spoil. I have my flavor list on my website, it has the cake and filling flavors I offer! It's listed in the description. I have videos for most of my recipes on this channel!

[@Glamourgal85]

So how far ahead do you start making fondant/coloring the fondant and buttercream/coloring buttercream etc. ? At what point in your schedule do you get that stuff in? I typically make my butter cream fresh the day of icing my cake. I try to make my fondant a few days ahead of time.

[@KarolynsKakes]

I make the filling the day I fill the cakes. I make the icing the day I frost the cakes. I make the fondant 1 week in advance. And I color it as I am working with it (making the decorations).

[@anitabadeau4866]

How would you decorate a cake with a basketball theme

[@cindyroteman7042]

That is exactly what we do at shippensburg University. I have frozen cake for a year and it be fine at home. Actually better then fresh.

[@KarolynsKakes]

Yes! I wish we could get people to realize this!

[@nitaspastries]

Big chain stores. (Names shall not be mentioned) they freeze their cakes years in advance. 😢

[@littlelady3895]

@@nitaspastries see and to me they charge way to much for something they put very little effort into. Most from my understanding gets the cakes already baked frozen! And God help you if you need someone to write a simple message on a cake, and the one that does that is on a break. I let my husband order out wedding cake. He asked for one to feed the guest list of 75-100 ppl. The cake was so small, we were actually glad that only 35 ppl showed. We didn't have any left. And my husband was like how do you make your cakes? I told I use a doctor up mix cake.he was made because he paid $150 and the cake was not that great! So now I make them for friends and family to help save them money and get better cakes lol

[@nitaspastries]

@@littlelady3895 that’s the spirit. Now you have a side business that you can grow into your full time business and make money.

[@cindyroteman7042]

@@nitaspastries so big name stores get frozen cakes in. Been to the warehouses on a tour as I moved up at weis markets. So most if they have a contract with Brill, use about all their products. Sara Lee is another, when I worked at pathmark years ago, that's who they used. Most companies use the same. Different label on their boxes.

[@sweetsanddandy8639]

When you "leave them out to settle" overnight, that is filled and crumb coated? And not in the fridge? Why not? Thanks! Great videos!

[@KarolynsKakes]

Here's how I fill cakes: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b2GUi3uloM9pn7s I don't crumb coat them after they are filled. They get wrapped back in plastic and sit at room temp to settle. Then I ice the next day. I never put a cake in the fridge that isn't iced because I don't want it to dry out!

[@kristapileggi232]

@@KarolynsKakes so would you advise against crumb coating and then placing in the fridge over night and icing the next day? Previously I have crumb coated as a protective layer for overnight refrigeration, but usually with buttercream. I am making a cake for Sunday that I am experimenting with a ganache filling/crumb coating. I have my cake layers thawing now and my plan was to fill and crumb coat with a white chocolate hazelnut whipped ganache tomorrow, and refrigerate over night then ice with buttercream on Friday. Or should I just fill, crumb coat and ice tomorrow? Sorry, I hope my question makes sense !

[@chamilaperera7160]

Hi Karolyn…. Super video…. I have a question 🙋‍♀️ . When you get an order for ex: 20 servings, what size cake you bake and how much frosting do you use? If it’s single tier and/or 2 tier (for ex) I’m just asking because from in this part of the world, where I’m from (Asia’s) usually cakes are ordered by the weight.. 1 kg / 2 Kgs etc etc.. and usually its just the weight of the cake with frosting (no fondant or any sort of decorations counted for) Hope I’m making sense here. The guide I follow is 60% cake to 40% frosting. Pls let me know how it works for you. Thank you 🙏

[@KarolynsKakes]

Hi Chamila! That's interesting and SO different from how it's done here! To feed 20, I will do an 8" for 1 tier or 4" / 6" for 2 tiers. As for the frosting amounts, I'm not sure exactly. However, when I frost cakes, I try to keep it between 1/4 inch - 1/2 inch thick. (0.6 - 1.2 cm thick) I hope that helps!

[@chamilaperera7160]

Thank you Karolyn… yes I do understand how it’s done there now but watching loads of videos but just wanted to check if there’s anything specific. However I will keep in mind the amount of frosting as you mentioned and see if it works for us as well. Actually the way you calculate is soooo much easier. Thank you again for responding.. just watched the Wedding Bouquet flavor video… wish I could find it in the part of the world 🥹 sounds delicious as I love the almond flavor ❤️

[@chamilaperera7160]

Just a thought…even here for 20 servings a single tier cake would be an 8” one and by weight it’s 2kgs… so maybe if you are not super busy with many orders, you could check the weight of the cake once you frost it (before putting on the decorations) to see what the weight would be like.. just curious 🧐😅 💜

[@palmapugliese7443]

Hi Karolyn, Thank you for answering all these questions. Ive had many over the past couple days since I've been asked to make a cake for a family member. Im a baking and pastry arts student but haven't had cake decorating just yet so i'm feeling a little lost! If you don't mind me asking... do you use a simple syrup before assembling the cakes? Also just to clarify, just to make sure i understood correctly.. If i bake my cakes a week before the party and freeze them, when thawing; they thaw out on the bench then go into the fridge, correct? Or do they thaw completely in the fridge? Hope to hear from you soon! :)

[@KarolynsKakes]

Hi Palma! I use the simple syrup on the layers as I'm filling the cakes. Here's a video showing how I make and use the simple syrup: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIHdqKRmeN98mJo

[@KarolynsKakes]

And I never thaw in the fridge, here's a video showing how I thaw cakes before I fill and ice them! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWHdpX9pjrJ8hdU

[@palmapugliese7443]

@@KarolynsKakes Thank you so much for your help! I love your channel, answers all the questions I have. I appreciate it all❤

[@ivemar0710]

Hello! I have to bake a 12”, 10” and 8”, they’ll all be 2 layers and torted. I’m baking and freezing them on a Wednesday for an event that next Saturday. But I’m driving 8hrs, almost 9 to that event. What do you suggest for transport? I using a big cooler but they’ll be thawed by the time I’m there. Can I assemble once there and just put it in a fridge overnight? Or put it in the fridge without decorating and assemble the next day?

[@KarolynsKakes]

I prefer to assemble my cakes at home and deliver them when they are completed. However, 9 hours is a loooooooong time to drive with a cake! I've never driven that far with a cake so I'm really not sure what to recommend. I'd absolutely keep the tiers separate and assemble on site. However, would you have access to a refrigerator so you can cool the cakes before you handle them? I'd probably cover them in fondant to protect them. But I personally would only deliver that far if I had a refrigerated truck! Look into dry ice, maybe you can use that?

[@Toschaskitchen]

So you keep your cakes in the fridge without putting them in a box? I always thought they need to be in the box while being refrigerated. This provides so much more room without the box!

[@KarolynsKakes]

OMG that would drive me insane! Once the cake is iced in buttercream, it's protected so the box really isn't needed.