Cake making is an art form that requires patience, precision, and creativity. From the texture of the cake to the flavour of the filling, every detail matters. For this reason, JM Posner, as an expert in catering suppliers, would like to share some customer’s ideas about the basics of cake making and the different types of fillings that you can use to elevate your cakes to the next level!

The Basics of Cake Making

When it comes to cake making, there are a few key ingredients and techniques that you need to master:

Ingredients for Cake Making

• Flour: All-purpose flour is the most common type of flour used in cake making. It provides structure and stability to the cake.
• Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness and helps to tenderize the cake.
• Eggs: Eggs provide structure and help to bind the ingredients together.
• Butter: Butter adds richness and flavour to the cake.
• Raising agents: Baking powder and baking soda help the cake to rise.

Techniques for Cake Making

Cake making can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging if you don't follow the right techniques.

• Creaming

Creaming is the process of beating butter and sugar together until they are light and fluffy. This technique is important because it helps to incorporate air into the batter, which helps the cake to rise. To cream butter and sugar, start by using a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the butter until it is smooth. Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

• Mixing

Mixing is another important technique in cake making. When mixing the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a tough, dense cake. To avoid overmixing, mix the dry ingredients together in a separate bowl, then add them to the wet ingredients in batches, mixing until just combined.

• Folding

Folding is a gentle mixing technique that is used to incorporate light, delicate ingredients into a cake batter. To fold ingredients into a cake batter, start by using a spatula to gently cut through the batter, then fold it over onto itself. Repeat this process until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

• Baking

Baking is the final step in cake making, and it's important to get it right. Be sure to preheat your oven and use the correct temperature and baking time for your recipe. To test if a cake is done, insert a toothpick into the centre of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If not, continue baking for a few more minutes.

• Levelling

Levelling is the process of trimming the top of a cake to make it even and flat. This is important because it makes it easier to stack and decorate the cake. To level a cake, use a serrated knife or a cake leveller to trim the top off of the cake. Be sure to do this carefully and evenly to avoid cutting too much from one side.

Once you've mastered the basics of cake making, it's time to experiment with different types of fillings.

Types of Cake Fillings

Cake fillings are a great way to add flavour and texture to your cakes. From creamy buttercream to tangy fruit compote, there are many different types of fillings to choose from. Overall, the best filling for cakes depends on personal preference and the specific cake being made.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Buttercream

Buttercream is a classic cake filling that's easy to make and versatile. It can be flavoured with vanilla, chocolate, fruit, or any other flavour your customer would like.

• Fruit Compote

Fruit compote is a great filling for summer cakes. It's made by cooking fresh or frozen fruit with sugar and a little bit of water until it's thick and jammy.

• Pastry Cream

Pastry cream is a rich, creamy filling that's perfect for layer cakes. It's made by cooking milk, sugar, and egg yolks together until thickened, then flavoured with vanilla or other flavourings.

• Whipped Cream

Whipped cream is a light and fluffy filling that's perfect for angel food cakes or other light cakes. It's made by whipping heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

• Ganache

Ganache is a rich and decadent filling that's perfect for chocolate cakes. It's made by heating cream and pouring it over chopped chocolate.

Which is the best Filling for Cakes?

There are many great fillings for cakes, pies, and desserts. Ultimately, the best filling for a cake will depend on factors such as the flavour of the cake, the occasion, and personal taste preferences. Here are a few options:

• Fruit fillings

Fruit fillings are a classic choice. Some popular fruit fillings include cherry, apple, blueberry, and peach. These fillings can be homemade or store-bought and can be used in a variety of desserts, including pies, cakes, and tarts.

• Chocolate ganache

Chocolate ganache is a rich and decadent filling that can be used in cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. It is made by heating cream and pouring it over chopped chocolate, then stirring until smooth. Ganache can be used as a filling or a frosting.

• Cream cheese filling

Cream cheese filling is a popular choice for cakes and pastries. It is made by whipping cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth. This filling can be used in a variety of desserts, including cakes, cupcakes, waffles, pancakes, and crepes.

• Pudding filling

Pudding filling is a versatile option that can be used in cakes, pies, and other desserts. It can be made in a variety of flavours, including vanilla, chocolate, and banana. Pudding filling is made by mixing milk with a pudding mix and whisking until thickened.

• Whipped cream filling

Whipped cream filling is a light and airy option that can be used in cakes, pies, and other desserts. It is made by whipping heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This filling can be used as a frosting or a filling.

Tips for Filling Cakes

If you're looking to take your cake baking to the next level, adding a filling can be a great way to add flavour and texture. Here are some tips for filling cakes:

1. Choose the right filling

As we mentioned before, there are many different types of cake fillings, from fruit compotes to whipped cream to pastry cream. Consider the flavour and texture of your cake and choose a filling that complements it well. For example, a tart lemon curd might pair well with a sweet vanilla cake, while a rich chocolate ganache might be better suited to a dense chocolate cake.

2. Level your cake layers

Before you start filling your cake, make sure your cake layers are level. This will make it easier to stack them and ensure that your filling is evenly distributed. You can level your cake layers using a serrated knife or a cake leveller.

3. Create a dam

To keep your filling from oozing out the sides of your cake, create a dam around the edge of each layer using buttercream or frosting. This will help contain your filling and keep your cake looking neat and tidy.

4. Add your filling

Once you've created your dam, add your filling to the centre of each layer. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it evenly, being careful not to let it spill over the edge.

5. Chill your cake

After you've filled your cake, chill it for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set. This will make it easier to stack your layers and decorate your cake without the filling squishing out.

With these tips, you'll be able to create delicious and beautiful filled cakes that are sure to impress!

Our client’s favourite Top 10 cake fillings

We have asked our customers which are their favourite filling we supply and these are the results:

1. White Chocolate Hazelnut Spread - Vela - 6 Kg
2. White Chocolate Spread - Vela - 6 Kg
3. Nutella - 3kg
4. Sacher White Coating & Filling - 6kg
5. Milk Chocolate Spread - Vela - 6 Kg
6. Cookies And Cream Dessert Filling/Spread - 6kg Tub - Eurocao
7. Sacher Milk Coating & Filling - 6kg
8. Sacher Caramel Coating & Filling - 6kg
9. Les Cremes Premium Lemon Filling - 6kg
10. JM Posner Premium Dulce De Leche - 7kg

But there are more tasty fillings available from JM Posner, like the raspberry fruit fillings, dark cookie, caramel, pistachio, hazelnut, Lotus, and vanilla… to mention just some. These luxury fillings are extremely versatile and packed full of flavour!

At JM Posner we scour the world looking for the very best food products so that you can offer your customers truly unique flavours and experiences as well as offering you great value for money. This is because we believe you should have the highest quality products which will leave your customers coming back for more.

Happy Baking!