Cake Tasting 101
Few things in the wedding process are as anticipated as the cake tasting. I've mentioned before that I'm not a fan of cake and much prefer cupcakes, but in this case, I'm using cake as a blanket term for pies, tarts, cookies, and any other sweet that you might have in lieu of a wedding cake.
Although a cake tasting seems like a cake walk, there are are some ground rules.
1. Do some research
Find no more three bakeries where you would like to do a tasting. Read review sites or ask other couples for their recommendations.
2. Make an Appointment
Call the bakeries of your choice and schedule an appointment with the pastry chef. Bring pictures of your favorite wedding cakes and come with some ideas but be open minded to suggestion. You should also know how many guests you'll be expecting and the cake budget
3. Taste in Order
Begin with the lighter, fluffier cakes such as sponge cake and end with heavy, denser cakes such as a chocolate layer cake. The pastry chef can recommend an order to taste the cakes that will please your palate. Taste cakes, frostings, fillings and embellishments separately. This enables you to taste the true flavor of each material.
4. Mix and Match
Try a few combinations. Most couples offer more than one variety of cake, and you can also ask the pastry chef for his or recommendation.
5. Sip and Taste
Take sips of water to cleanse your palate so you don't taste bits of the old cake when you try the new. It is also smart to take some notes.
6. Talk to the Chef
You might love the cake, but the chef could be flaky or the workmanship uneven. Before you draw up and sign the contract, ask to see his portfolio and ask for references.
Happy tasting!
Posted by Natalie T.
1-800-701-4026
