Why is it that some cakes melt in the mouth in seconds while others feel like sponges? There are few cakes that are freshly baked, while others are frozen, giving rise to the difference. Let us find out which one is suitable for us by comparing the two.
The debate over which one is better can continue for ages. But from a buyer’s perspective, it is necessary to know which one is reasonable to consume and under which circumstances. This blog is equally applicable for buying cakes for both occasional purposes and to meet your cravings.
What a fresh cake actually is.
Time is important in determining the freshness of a cake. A fresh cake is baked, decorated, and enjoyed within a short span of time. In order to maintain quality, such cakes are baked in small batches. The ingredients that are used are fresh and vibrant, maintaining consistent texture and flavor. A cake lover can easily tell the difference between fresh-baked and frozen cakes just by taking the first bite. The ingredients taste livelier and more amazing if tasted fresh.
What is a frozen cake?
As the name suggests, these cakes are baked in advance and kept in a freezer. They are taken out only when necessary and often mass-produced for commercial purposes. They are kept under low temperatures and thawed before selling. Frozen cakes are not entirely tasteless, but their taste and texture are not as good as freshly baked cakes.
The game of ingredients
Do you wonder why fresh cakes taste better than the frozen ones? The simple reason is the difference between the ingredients used in the preparation of the two types of cake. Fresh cakes use high-quality ingredients that are fresh and flavorful. The taste of eggs, butter, cream, and other ingredients used in these cakes tastes more vibrant.
Frozen cakes come with added preservatives and artificial stabilizers that not only downgrade the natural taste of the cake but also are harmful to the body. Frozen cakes tend to have a longer shelf life due to the process it undergoes.
Taste and texture
The texture of a freshly baked cake is of superior nature and it easily melts in the mouth. The layers of the cake are well balanced in texture and taste. You are supposed to enjoy every bite of a freshly baked cake. On the other hand, the effect of the freezing process tends to make the cake denser, and the texture turns rough and spongy. Also, in a frozen cake the moisture fails to hold up well, responsible for a bad texture. Fresh cakes hold the bold, natural flavor of the ingredients used. You better not expect that from a frozen one, as the freezing process makes the ingredients taste dull.
Quality vs. convenience
Are you the one that chooses quality over convenience? In that case, you should know that a freshly baked batch of cake offers exceptional quality that a frozen cake can never match. However, you may not always have a fresh cake at your disposal. Frozen cakes may not offer equivalent quality but can meet your sudden hunger needs and can let you meet last-minute party needs. Convenience comes at the cost of quality. For a planned occasion, it is better to go for fresh cakes that uphold unmatched taste and texture.
Shelf life
Bakeries and commercial cake makers opt for frozen cakes as they have a larger shelf life and can align with the demand and supply curve. Frozen cakes have a shelf life of weeks or months and have a longer expiry date. Fresh cakes have a shorter shelf life and spoil within days if not consumed within a specific time. Fresh cakes are not for someone who is busy and prefers carrying cake to curb sudden hunger.
Price point
Frozen cakes are baked in large batches and are often cheaper than freshly baked cakes. Being cheaper, frozen cakes are a popular delight. Fresh cakes, on the other hand, are preferred by customers who like premium products. If you don’t mind spending for the right cake, then fresh cakes are appropriate for you.
When to choose fresh cakes
Are you looking for a cake to celebrate some specially planned occasion? In that case pick up the phone and order a fresh cake. If you want to receive praise about the quality and texture of your party cake, then you should definitely go for a fresh cake.
When to choose frozen cakes
If you are not looking for perfection in cake and just wish to fill the stomach at a casual gathering, frozen cakes are a good-to-go option. Also, they are affordable and can cut down your budget to a considerable extent. If you have a large gathering to feed and your budget is tight, frozen cakes stand irreplaceable.
Freezing your fresh cakes
There exists a middle path for you. Yes, you can choose to freeze your fresh cake. Not entirely, but parts of it that are left over. By doing this, you can enjoy the good of both the worlds. Let us learn how to freeze a cake properly. Wrap the leftovers from the fresh cake in plastic and then wrap a second time in aluminum foil. This helps to lock in the moisture and avoids the cake getting over-frosted. Later, you can just thaw the cake at room temperature and enjoy it whenever and wherever you want.
Final thoughts
The right choice for you lies in clearly identifying your priorities. If you are someone who cannot compromise on flavor and texture at any cost, go for the fresh cakes. Order one and enjoy it in the comfort of your home or workplace. If you want something to meet your hunger on the go and do not wish to spend much, buying frozen cake is the option for you. Also, you have just learned how to freeze your fresh cake for consuming later. If you wish, you can try that trick as well with the leftovers from fresh cake. So, have you made your decision? Which one is your type: quality or convenience?