Bulging sides on wedding cakes

[jpprobst]

When I put my layers together to make one tier, I get a bulge around the middle of the tier. Any suggestions on how to not have that happen?-- anxiously awaiting...

[tamrks]

Are you using filling in between the layers? If so, take some icing and create a "dam" around the edge. This will prevent the filling from oozing on the sides.
I usually do a crumb coat and put the cake in the fridge for a while, which seems to give the cake time to settle and the icing to stiffen up a little...
Also make sure the layers are even, any kind of irregualrity will make the cake bulge..
Hope this helps!

[cakebaker]

Whether the cake is filled or not, I find it very helpful to put the layers together and crumb coat, then let the cake sit for as long as possible (I usually let it go overnight). Cakes can often settle after putting them together. Letting it sit for at least a few hours before putting on the final icing will let you smooth out any bulges that may want to form.

[Amanda]

Cakebaker is absolutely right. I used to have all sorts of problems from not letting my cakes rest enough. I'll bet that if you let them rest for a few hours (minimum) you'll see a big difference. Also, make sure they are completely cool before you work with them. If they are even a just a little tiny bit warm when you stack them or start working with them you'll be sorry. A little warmth can really wreak havoc on a cake.
Good luck!!
Amanda

Now that I think about it, I'm pretty sure Cakebaker was the one that gave me the same advice and helped me out when I had issues with cracking icing and dowel rods poking out. Thanks, cakebaker!!! Good sound advice!

[cakebaker]

You're very welcome!

Sometimes I find it hard to be patient and let the cakes sit, but it really is worth waiting to avoid those nasty bulges!

[VictoriAnne Sweets]

I have the same problem--not letting my cakes rest enough...*sigh* guess it's time for better planning!!!

[jpprobst]

You all were right. Baked a cake this week and let it sit overnight. Best part, NO BULGE!!!
You know it is hard to be patient. LOL...

[2sdae]

Originally Posted by jpprobst

You all were right. Baked a cake this week and let it sit overnight. Best part, NO BULGE!!!
You know it is hard to be patient. LOL...

AMEN!!!! Patients is hard to come by for sure...but pays off well!

[simplysensational]

I need to learn patience too then. How do I prevent the bulging when I have to bake and decorate a cake all in the same day? I hate last minute requests!

[2sdae]

Try to let them layers rest for at least 2 hours and I even give all my layers a little push down after I add each one to try to help along the resting! If there is such a thing!