Create a stunning centerpiece with a simple 3 layer wedding cake – Click for easy instructions!

Ingredients

To make a simple 3 layer wedding cake, you will need flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, milk, and vanilla extract. Here’s a breakdown of the measurements:

– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 3 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure they are fully incorporated before adding the next.

4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until fully combined.

6. Stir in the vanilla extract.

7. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Assembly and Decoration

1. Once the cakes are completely cooled, use a serrated knife to level them off.

2. Place one of the cake layers on a serving plate or cake board.

3. Spread a layer of your chosen filling, such as buttercream frosting or a fruit compote, over the top of the first layer, leaving about a ½ inch border around the edge.

4. Place the second cake layer on top of the filling and repeat the process.

5. Finally, add the top layer and gently press down to secure the cake in place.

6. Apply a thin layer of frosting all over the cake to create a crumb coat. This will help to seal in any loose crumbs and make the final layer of frosting look more polished.

7. Chill the cake in the fridge for 30 minutes to set the crumb coat.

8. Once chilled, apply a final layer of frosting over the crumb coat, creating a smooth and even finish.

9. Decorate your cake as desired. A simple 3 tier wedding cake can be dressed up or down depending on your preference. For an elegant look, you can create a buttercream ombre effect or use fresh flowers to adorn the cake. Or, if you’re going for a more rustic vibe, you can add a touch of gold leaf or create a textured finish with a spatula.

FAQs

1. Can I make a 3 layer wedding cake without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can make this cake without a stand mixer. While it may take a bit longer to cream the butter and sugar together by hand, it is still possible to create a fluffy and light cake batter. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth – a few lumps won’t affect the final result.

2. How far in advance can I make a 3 layer wedding cake?

You can bake the cakes up to 2 days in advance of the wedding and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, it is best to assemble and decorate the cake the day before to ensure maximum freshness. If you need to store the cake overnight, keep it in the fridge to prevent the frosting from melting.

3. How do I transport a 3 layer wedding cake?

Transporting a wedding cake can be a bit nerve-wracking, but with a little bit of planning, it can be done easily. Make sure to assemble and decorate the cake on a sturdy cake board to prevent any wobbling during transport. Cover the cake with a cake dome or box to protect it from bumps and jostles. If possible, transport the cake in an air-conditioned car and avoid sudden stops or sharp turns.

4. How many servings does a 3 layer wedding cake provide?

A 3 layer wedding cake can provide anywhere from 30 to 50 servings depending on the size of the layers. The size of the cake layers can be adjusted to accommodate the number of guests you’re expecting – for example, 8-inch layers will provide more servings than 6-inch layers. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and order a slightly larger cake than you think you’ll need!