How to Level and Torte a Cake | Wilton

Summary

In this video, viewers learn the essential techniques for preparing a layer cake, focusing on leveling and torting. The host demonstrates various methods, including using a serrated knife on a flat surface, a turntable, and a cake leveler. Each method is explained step-by-step to ensure even layers for stacking and decorating, with tips on avoiding cake cracks and maintaining height. Whether you're a beginner or more experienced, this video offers practical insights to help create a perfectly prepared cake, ready for assembly and filling.

Takeaways

• 😀 Leveling a cake ensures an even surface, which is important for icing and stacking layers.
• 🍰 Torting a cake divides it into even layers, which is essential for a layered cake structure.
• 🔪 Using a serrated knife on a flat surface allows for precise leveling and torting if done carefully.
• 🎡 A turntable makes the leveling and torting process easier by allowing smooth rotation while cutting.
• 📏 Toothpicks can be used to create a guide for torting, ensuring a more even cut around the cake's circumference.
• 🍴 A cake leveler is a great tool for beginners, as it allows for adjustable and consistent cuts.
• ⏳ When leveling with a knife, take your time and cut slowly to avoid removing too much of the cake.
• 👩‍🍳 To prevent the cake from shifting while cutting, stabilize it by placing a hand on top during the process.
• 🔄 The turntable method simplifies the process, as it helps rotate the cake evenly while slicing.
• 🛠 Using a cake leveler with a wire mechanism makes it easier to cut through cakes evenly and accurately, especially when adjusting the height settings.

Q & A

What is the first step in preparing a classic layer cake?

The first step is to prepare the canvas, which means leveling the cake to ensure it has an even top. This is important for stacking and icing the cake.

What is the purpose of leveling a cake?

Leveling the cake helps remove the dome formed during baking, ensuring a flat surface. This makes it easier to stack and ice the cake evenly.

What tools can be used to level a cake?

You can use a serrated knife on a level surface or turntable, or a cake leveler to level a cake.

Why does a dome form on the top of the cake during baking?

The dome forms because the batter rises unevenly during baking, which results in a higher center and lower edges.

How should you hold the knife when leveling the cake?

When leveling the cake, you should keep your hand steady on top of the cake to prevent movement and try to keep the knife level by holding your elbow still.

What is torting in cake preparation?

Torting is the process of cutting a cake into two or more layers, typically to create a layered structure for the cake.

How can you ensure an even cut when torting a cake?

You can use a ruler or score the cake's side to create a guide. Additionally, toothpicks placed around the cake's perimeter can help ensure an even cut.

What is the benefit of using a turntable when leveling and torting a cake?

A turntable helps you easily rotate the cake as you slice through it, making the process smoother and more even. It reduces the effort required to maintain a level cut.

How does a cake leveler work?

A cake leveler has adjustable notches that allow you to set the cutting height. It uses a wire to slice through the cake evenly and is ideal for those who find it difficult to use a serrated knife.

What is the advantage of using a cake leveler over a serrated knife?

The cake leveler offers more precision, especially for beginners. Its adjustable wire ensures even cuts, and it eliminates the need for freehand cutting, which can sometimes result in uneven layers.