What Is The Difference?
Working with people from ALL walks of life I encounter a lot of confusion regarding cake terminology, and rightfully so. Each Cakery seems to have their own method, format, and assembly of cakes. I hope to help you understand the difference between our SHEET, LAYER and TIERED CAKES, as well as, how they are most beneficial to your event or celebration.
SHEET CAKES are comprised of a 2” high cake, baked in a rectangular pan. They can be decorated for your special event OR scored. We refer to SHEETS by their DIMENSIONS, since they are NOT standard quarter, half and full sheet sizes. There are 3 size options to choose from, posted on our cake menu. Sheet cakes are not typically filled, BUT we do offer a filling as an upgrade. Costs will vary depending on the size of the sheet cake. Adding a FILLING requires cutting the cake horizontally and creating room for a flavored crème, preserve or frosting to be incorporated. SCORING the cake simply means the cake is pre-marked into servings, with a small decoration on each piece. SCORED CAKES are often used for larger parties where the DECORATED CAKE will not provide all the servings needed for the event. Ease of cutting and serving sheet cakes makes them appealing for those events where guests will be serving themselves.
LAYER CAKES are comprised of 2 layers of cake with a flavored filling OR buttercream frosting (sandwiched) between them. These cakes are referred to by their diameter. A typical layer cake is 4 1/2” high. We offer various shapes and sizes, which are posted on our cake menu. LAYER CAKES tend to have more visual appeal than sheet cakes and allow for more design work on the sides. Small LAYER CAKES can be cut into wedges (like a pie) BUT our layer cakes are larger and we recommend cutting them into slabs measuring approximately 4 ½” H X 2” D X 1” W. Ask for a cutting guide when you pick up your order. These cakes are better cut and plated for your guests rather than self serve. LAYER CAKES have a formal presentation and are used for those special occasions that call for celebration!
TIERED CAKES consist of multiple layer cakes of different sizes stacked on top of each other like a traditional wedding cake. Tiered cakes must be handled with TLC and prefer to be transported on a LEVEL SURFACE. We allow pick up for small tier cakes BUT we recommend delivery service for anything over 45 servings. There is structural support placed in ALL tiered cakes with a dowel rod through ALL tiers and into the baseboard. We will help you get your tiered cake situated in your vehicle but after that, she is ALL yours. PLEASE drive cautiously!!
KITCHEN CAKES are layered sheet cakes that INCLUDE a flavored filling and are frosted, but NOT decorated (other than borders). These cakes are tailored specifically to weddings. KITCHEN CAKES are not displayed, but held in the prep area with your catering staff. The beauty of KITCHEN CAKES is their affordability & presentation. What guest would prefer a plain sheet cake to an elegant cake with yummy flavors bursting from between the cake layers?
