Baking a cake is an art! The aroma of freshly baked cakes and the sweet taste can make anyone’s heart melt. However, waiting for it to cool down completely before frosting or decorating can feel like a lifetime. Waiting for hours is not always an option when you are pressed for time- but fret not!
In this blog post, we have gathered five helpful tips and tricks on how to cool a cake quickly without risking its flavor or texture.
So put your apron on, get ready to learn some tricks, and let’s get started!
Table of Contents
How to Cool a Cake Quickly
Assuming you’ve already baked your cake and it’s still hot, there are a few things you can do to cool it down quickly.
One is to set the cake pan on a wire cooling rack set over a baking sheet and then place it in the fridge or freezer for about 15 minutes. This will help the cake to cool evenly and prevent the formation of condensation on the top of the cake.
Another method is to cut the cake into thin slices and then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the fridge or freezer. This will also help to prevent condensation and ensure that each slice cools evenly.
If you’re in a hurry, you can even place the whole cake (uncovered) in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes, though this may cause some condensation to form on the top of the cake.
Whichever method you choose, make sure to check on your cake regularly and remove it from the fridge or freezer as soon as it’s cooled completely.
Tip #1 – Place the Cake in the Refrigerator
Allow the cake to cool for about 30 minutes after it comes out of the oven.
Then, place the cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour or until it is completely cooled.
The refrigerator will help to firm up the cake and make it easier to work with.
Tip #2 – Freeze the Cake
Once you have removed your cake from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before attempting to move it. If you try to move or cut a hot cake, it will likely fall apart.
To help the cooling process along, and prevent your cake from drying out, place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes.
This will help the cake to firm up so that you can easily remove it from the pan and slice it without incident.
Tip #3 – Use a Fan to Cool it Quickly
If you are in a hurry and need to cool your cake quickly, using a fan is a great option.
Simply place your cake on a wire rack over a baking sheet and turn on a fan to blow air over the cake.
The circulating air will help to quickly cool the cake.
Tip #4 – Put Tin Foil Around the Cake
Just be sure to keep an eye on the cake so that it doesn’t dry out.
If you’re in a hurry to cool your cake, one method is to place it on a wire rack and then cover the top and sides with foil.
Make sure the foil doesn’t touch the cake, as this can cause sticking.
Leave the cake to cool for at least an hour before removing the foil.
Read more:
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How Long Does Cake Last in the Fridge? Tips for Storing and Reheating
Tip #5 – Allow Time
Once your cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before attempting to remove it.
This will help the cake to firm up, making it less likely to fall apart when you transfer it to a cooling rack.
If you’re in a hurry, you can place the pan in the freezer for a few minutes to speed up the process.
FAQs
Can I use the fridge to cool my cake?
Yes, you can use the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.
Place your cake on a wire rack over a baking sheet and put it in the fridge for 30 minutes. Check on it after 30 minutes and if the top is still warm, give it another 10-15 minutes in the fridge.
Will my cake be dense if I cool it in the fridge?
No, your cake will not be dense if you cool it in the fridge.
In fact, cooling your cake in the fridge will help to prevent it from becoming dense or dry.
Is it better to cool a cake in the fridge or on the counter?
It is generally better to cool a cake in the refrigerator, as this can help prevent it from becoming dense or dry.
However, how long you leave your cake in the fridge will depend on the type of cake you are making; some cakes will take longer than others.
Should I cover my cake before cooling it?
Yes, it is a good idea to cover your cake with either plastic wrap or aluminum foil before cooling.
This will help to keep the cake moist and prevent it from drying out.
How long does it take for a cake to cool down?
It usually takes about an hour for a cake to cool down completely.
However, if you are cooling it in the fridge or freezer, it will take less time.
What is the best way to cool a cake quickly?
The best way to cool a cake quickly is in the fridge or freezer.
However, you need to be careful not to let the cake get too cold or it will become hard and dry.
Conclusion
Cooling a cake quickly can be tricky, but with the right tips and tricks, it’s easy to do. From quickly transferring the cake to a wire rack to making sure you cool it in an area away from direct sunlight or a heat source, there are lots of things you can do to make cooling your cakes easier.
Whether you’re baking for yourself or for someone special, following these five steps will ensure that your cakes are cooled as quickly and efficiently as possible.
