Should a wedding cake sit out overnight?

Most modern wedding cakes are sponge or buttercream, and these do not keep well at room temperature overnight. The filling can spoil, the icing can slide, and the cake can dry out. If your cake has fresh cream, custard or fruit filling, it must go in the fridge as soon as the evening is over. A fruit cake, especially one with marzipan and royal icing, is the exception. It can sit out overnight in a cool, dry room, covered loosely with foil or a cake box. If you are unsure, ask your baker for storage instructions. They know the exact ingredients and will give you honest advice. On the night, ask a member of your venue staff or a trusted guest to move the cake to a safe place. Do not leave it near radiators, direct sunlight or a warm dance floor. In the morning, decide whether to serve it for brunch, freeze it for your anniversary, or let guests take slices home. A little planning keeps the cake safe and delicious.