Cutting Cakes Made Easy
Cake Cutting Guide for Tall Cakes
A tall cake can look beautiful on the table, but it can feel a little tricky once it is time to cut it. This cake cutting guide is here to help you serve tall cakes, layered cakes and tiered cakes neatly, with less stress and more even slices for your guests.
- Remove decorations first
- Separate tiers carefully
- Use a warm clean knife
- Cut neat party slices
How to Cut a Tall Cake Without Making a Mess
Tall cakes usually fall into two main groups: layered cakes and tiered cakes. A layered cake is one tall cake made with layers of cake and filling. A tiered cake is made from separate cakes stacked on top of each other, usually with cake boards and supports between the tiers. The cutting method is similar, but tiered cakes need one extra step: separating the tiers.
Step 1: Remove Decorations, Figurines and Supports
Before cutting, gently remove decorations such as toppers, figurines, flowers, candles, acrylic signs, sugar decorations and any pieces that are not meant to be sliced through.
If your cake has internal supports, dowels or straws, remove them as you come across them. This keeps the cake safer to cut and helps protect your knife.
- Remove cake toppers, figurines and decorations first
- Take out dowels or supports as you find them
- Keep decorations aside if you want to save them
- Use clean hands, gloves or clean serving tools
Step 2: Separate the Tiers if It Is a Tiered Cake
If your cake is tiered, start by separating the top tier from the lower tier. Slide a clean cake spatula under the top tier, aiming underneath the cake board that sits below that tier.
Move slowly. It can help to steady the cake gently from one side while the spatula supports the tier from underneath. Once the top tier is free, place it on a clean board or plate before cutting.
- Look for the cake board under the tier
- Slide the spatula under the board, not through the cake
- Move the tier slowly and keep it level
- Cut each separated tier like a tall layered cake
Step 3: Cut a Tall Section, Then Slice It Smaller
Place your chopping board close to the cake. Use a long sharp knife to cut straight down through the cake, then carefully move that cut section onto the board.
Once the section is on the board, cut it into smaller pieces. For parties and weddings, a common serving size is around 1 inch by 2 inches, but you can adjust the size depending on your guests and the style of event.
- Warm the knife in hot water if the cake is chilled
- Wipe the knife between cuts for cleaner slices
- Cut one tall section first, then portion it on a board
- Keep slices smaller for large events or dessert tables
Step 4: Serve Clean Slices and Enjoy the Cake
Once the tall section has been moved onto a board, cut it vertically and horizontally into neat pieces. This gives you more even portions than cutting large wedge slices straight from a tall cake.
Take your time, wipe the knife when needed, and keep the cake cool until serving time if it has soft fillings, buttercream, ganache, cream or mousse.
- Cut the section into smaller party slices
- Wipe the knife for a cleaner finish
- Keep soft cakes cool before serving
- Serve with plates, napkins and a cake server nearby
Ordering a Tall Custom Cake in Dunedin
At Criollo Designer Cakes, we make custom cakes for birthdays, weddings, 21sts, family celebrations, workplace events and special occasions in Dunedin and Mosgiel.
If you are planning a tall cake, tiered cake or layered cake, it is helpful to tell us your event date, number of servings, flavour ideas, design style, pickup or delivery preference, and any dietary needs.
- Custom birthday cakes in Dunedin
- Wedding cakes and engagement cakes
- Tiered cakes and tall layered cakes
- Cupcakes, cupcake bouquets and cupcake gift boxes
- Dessert boxes and sweet gifts for pickup or delivery
FAQs About Cutting Tall Cakes
How do I cut a tall cake neatly?
Cut one tall section from the cake first, move that section onto a chopping board, then cut it into smaller serving portions. This is usually easier and neater than cutting large wedges straight from a tall cake.
How do I cut a tiered cake?
First remove decorations and supports, then separate each tier by sliding a spatula under the cake board beneath the tier. Once the tier is separated, cut it like a tall layered cake.
Should I warm the knife before cutting cake?
If the cake is cold from the fridge, warming the knife in hot water and wiping it dry can help make cleaner cuts, especially through buttercream, ganache and chilled fillings.
What size should cake slices be for a party?
A common party or wedding slice is around 1 inch by 2 inches, but you can make slices larger or smaller depending on your guests, the cake size and how much other food is being served.
Can Criollo Designer Cakes make tall cakes in Dunedin?
Yes. Criollo Designer Cakes makes custom cakes, tall cakes, tiered cakes, birthday cakes, wedding cakes, cupcakes, cupcake bouquets and dessert gifts for Dunedin and Mosgiel customers.
Planning a Cake for Your Next Celebration?
Tell us your date, occasion, serving number, flavour ideas and any photos you like. From there, we can help you plan a custom cake, cupcakes, cupcake bouquet or dessert gift that suits your event.