How to Prevent Cakes from Drying Out in the Fridge

How to Prevent Cakes from Drying Out in the Fridge

Here are tested tips you can use (and recommend to your customers) to keep cakes moist during refrigeration:

1. Cover it tightly (air-tight is key)

Wrap your cake very well with plastic wrap, or place it in an air-tight cake box. You want to block direct exposure to cold air. Alternatively, place a cake dome or cloche over it before refrigerating.

2. Use barrier layers

A thin layer of frosting, ganache, or apricot glaze on the outermost crumb helps seal in moisture. Even something as simple as brushing a sugar syrup can act as a moisture barrier.

3. Store shorter term

While refrigeration can help preserve fillings (especially dairy or fruit fillings), avoid keeping most cakes in the fridge for more than 3–4 days. Beyond that, drying and textural changes may become noticeable.

4. Let it warm slightly before serving

Take the cake out an hour before serving (if ambient temperature permits). This helps the texture soften and the flavors revive.

5. Consider layering protection

For cake slices, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place inside a lidded container or resealable bag. This helps prevent cross-drying among slices.

With these steps, your cake should stay soft, moist, and delicious, even after refrigeration — especially over a few days.