Q&A for How to Cut a Cake Layer in Half

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  • Question
    How do I make sure the cake slices are the same size?
    Jennifer Levasseur
    Personal Chef
    Chef Jennifer Levasseur is a Personal Chef and the Owner of The Happy Cuisiniere based in Breckenridge, Colorado. She has over 12 years of culinary experience and specializes in Mountain and Contemporary Rustic cuisine. Moreover, she can craft dishes and modify menus to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and dairy-free diets. In addition to a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management from the University of Houston, Chef Jennifer holds Associate’s degrees in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts from Houston Community College.
    Personal Chef
    Expert Answer
    To ensure uniform cake slices, you can use a large serrated knife and consider a few key factors. Some professional bakeries opt to trim the cake's top and sides for a flat surface, enhancing crisp frosting edges; however, this step is discretionary. Alternatively, place one hand flat on the cake's top, align the knife-holding hand with the cake's midpoint, and carefully slice through, ensuring a horizontal cut to prevent sloping. For larger cakes, a turntable aids in the process, requiring the gradual rotation of the cake as you slice. Additionally, after slicing, create a small top-to-bottom slit and ensure alignment during layering so that the cake maintains its original cut orientation.
  • Question
    Should the cake be completely cool before I cut it?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Leave it to cool overnight if possible. The fat hardens when it cools, thus firming up the cake.
  • Question
    Will this method work on a loaf cake?
    Community Answer
    If the cake is on the harder side, it will likely not work. However, if it is spongy like the one in the picture, this method should work.
  • Question
    When do I take the cake out of the pan?
    Community Answer
    You should take the cake out the pan as soon as it comes out of the oven and put it on a cooling rack.
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