Four Effective Methods for Freezing Cake
How to Freeze Cake: Your Complete Guide
Curious about whether or not you can freeze the cake you just made? Use this guide to learn how to freeze cake, whether whole or sliced, frosted or unfrosted.

Today I’m sharing some invaluable kitchen tips on freezing cakes. One of the most common questions I receive is, “Can this recipe be frozen?” The answer is a resounding YES! However, the freezing process varies depending on whether the cake is frosted or unfrosted, whole or sliced. Let’s explore the best methods for each type.
Will Freezing Affect the Taste and Texture of My Cake?
A common concern is whether freezing will alter the cake’s taste and texture. The good news is that most cakes freeze exceptionally well! When wrapped correctly and not stored for too long, you won’t even notice it was frozen. However, super moist or delicate cakes, such as chocolate toffee poke cake or angel food cake, may not fare as well. For classics like the best chocolate cake or vanilla cupcakes, you can freeze them for up to a month without worry.
Freezing Unfrosted Cake Layers
If you’re planning ahead, consider freezing unfrosted cake layers for later decorating. A friend of mine successfully froze layers for two months for a wedding cake, and no one could tell when it came time to serve!
How to Freeze Unfrosted Cake Layers
Wrap each cooled cake layer tightly in plastic wrap, then in heavy-duty foil for longer storage. Optional: Place them in zip-top freezer bags for extra protection. Label with the date and freeze for up to two months.
How to Thaw
When it’s time to decorate, let the cake layers sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours. This will allow them to thaw while still being cold enough to frost easily.
Freezing a Whole, Frosted Cake
If you need to prepare a cake in advance but lack the time for assembly before your event, freezing a frosted cake is a great option. Most frostings, including my homemade buttercream, freeze nicely, while delicate frostings like whipped cream should be avoided.
How to Freeze a Whole, Frosted Cake
Frost and decorate your cake, placing it on a cardboard cake round. Freeze uncovered for about two hours until the frosting is firm. Then wrap it in plastic wrap followed by heavy-duty foil, label, and freeze for up to one month.
How to Thaw
The night before your event, take the cake out of the freezer and place it in the refrigerator overnight (still wrapped). Remove the plastic wrap 1-2 hours before serving to bring it to room temperature, enhancing its flavor and texture.
Freezing Cake Slices
If you find yourself with leftover slices after a gathering, don’t waste them! Freezing individual slices is an excellent way to save them for later enjoyment.
How to Freeze Cake Slices
Place frosted slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until firm. If the cake is unfrosted, you can skip this step. Wrap each slice in 1-2 layers of plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Label and freeze for up to one month (frosted) or two months (unfrosted).
How to Thaw Cake Slices
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a couple of hours. For unfrosted cake types like coffee cake, microwaving for 30-60 seconds can do the trick for both thawing and warming.
Freezing Cupcakes
And let’s not forget about cupcakes! They, too, can be frozen using a similar process.
How to Freeze Cupcakes
For frosted cupcakes, place them on a sheet tray and freeze until the frosting is firm. Wrap each in 1-2 layers of plastic wrap and store in a zip-top freezer bag. Label and freeze for up to one month if frosted and two months if unfrosted.
How to Thaw Cupcakes
When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight while still wrapped or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Now that you know how to freeze cake, you’ll be unstoppable in preparing for your next event or saving delicious leftovers to savor later!