Whether it’s an anniversary, birthday or just a casual gathering of friends, a cake is often the centerpiece of any event. Luckily, there’s no reason why a small cake can’t be just as spectacular. In fact, petite one-tiers, minis and Bundts can make a huge impression on guests. Moreover, they can be a more cost-effective way to serve a larger number of people than a three-foot tall wedding cake.
The size of your cake can make or break its overall look, but there’s also a lot to consider when it comes to the ingredients and decoration. For example, too many decorations can look overwhelming and overdone. But too little, and the cake can feel bland. It’s all about finding that perfect balance.
One of the best ways to add flavor and visual interest to a small cake is by covering it in sprinkles or crushed candy. This can instantly elevate a basic buttercream into something more festive. To keep the decorations from falling off, make sure the cake is covered in a light buttercream or melted chocolate coating beforehand.
Another way to spruce up a small cake is by adding fresh flowers. The flowers can be a beautiful way to tie the cake’s theme together and add an element of surprise and elegance. For example, this peony and ranunculus floral adorned cake from Amy Cakes was the perfect complement to the couple’s gem-themed Palm Springs wedding.
You can also give a simple cake an elegant twist by decorating it with gold flakes or edible glitter. This is a great option for a bridal shower or bachelorette party or just a special occasion with friends. Top the cake with a scattering of sweets, like Dolly Mixtures or jelly beans, for an extra pop of color and texture.
When it comes to a small cake, baking time is more of a game of ear-tuning than following an exact recipe. Start by following the baking time listed in the recipe, but play it safe by removing the cakes from the oven five to ten minutes earlier than you would for a larger cake. This will help to ensure that the cakes aren’t overbaked and dry.
Another important tip for baking small cakes is to make sure that your pans are properly prepared before putting the batter in them. You can do this by greasing and flouring the pans. This is particularly important for mini cakes, which are more delicate and likely to stick to the pans if they’re not well-greased. You can also line the bottoms of your pans with parchment paper, but you’ll need to grease and flour the paper as well. This will make the cakes easier to remove from the pans once they’re cooled and ready to frost.