Preserving Cakes in Cafe and Bakery Display Cabinets: Duration and Tips
The length of time a cake can be displayed in a cafe or bakery display cabinet depends on several factors including the type of cake, its ingredients, and storage conditions. Keep reading to learn about the general guidelines and tips to ensure the freshness and safety of your cakes.
Factors Influencing Cake Preservation
The longevity of cakes displayed in cafes and bakeries can be influenced by several key factors:
Type of Cake
Different types of cakes have varying durations of shelf life before they need to be discarded. Here are some general guidelines:
Buttercream Cakes
Typically, buttercream cakes can last 3 to 5 days at room temperature, provided they are properly covered. If exposed to air, they may dry out, affecting their texture and taste.
Fondant Cakes
Fondant cakes can last longer, around 5 to 7 days, due to the protective nature of the fondant. Fondant helps to seal in moisture, which is crucial for maintaining the cake's consistency.
Cream-Based Cakes
These cakes generally should be kept for 1 to 3 days because they contain perishable ingredients like cream cheese or whipped cream, which can spoil quickly.
Fruit Cakes
Fruit cakes can last longer, even weeks, due to their lower moisture content and higher sugar levels. The high sugar content acts as a preservative, helping to prevent bacterial growth.
Storage Conditions
Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain the freshness and safety of displayed cakes:
Display Cabinet Temperature
Generally, a display cabinet should be kept at a cool temperature of around 70°F or 21°C (room temperature). This helps to maintain the cake's freshness without requiring refrigeration, which can cause the cake to become too dry.
Humidity Control
Proper humidity levels are crucial to prevent the cake from drying out or becoming too moist. Ideally, the humidity level should be kept between 60% and 70%. Having the correct humidity can help keep the cake's texture optimal.
Visual and Quality Checks
Bakers and cafe staff should regularly check the cakes for freshness, texture, and appearance. If a cake looks off or smells bad, it should be discarded immediately, regardless of the elapsed time.
Food Safety Regulations
Many local health regulations dictate how long perishable items can be displayed. It is essential to follow these guidelines to ensure compliance and the safety of the customers.
Additional Considerations
The duration for which cakes can be displayed also depends on the type of cake and the policies of the bakery. Here are some additional tips based on different types of cakes:
Commercial Bakeries
Most commercial bakeries adhere to a policy of displaying cakes in a cold case for 2 to 5 days. Whipped topping and cakes with fruit or fruit filling do not last as long as cakes with heavier frosting. Cakes at room temperature generally won't last more than a couple of days. Frozen decorated cakes can stay fresh up to 30 days, depending on how well they are stored.
Special Cases
Some bakeries, especially those with slower turnover, may use styrofoam cakes frosted with royal icing. These fake cakes are durable and last indefinitely, allowing the bakery to make new ones as needed to keep up with changing trends and styles. However, it's important to ensure these fake cakes do not get dusty and continue to be visually appealing to customers.
Summary
While cakes can be displayed for several days, their longevity heavily depends on the type of cake and proper storage. Regular checks are vital to ensure both quality and safety. Always follow local food safety regulations and bakery policies to maintain the best possible product for your customers.