As a bespoke cake-maker in Perth, Scotlandthis a frequently asked question.....
I have been making cakes for 10 years. Navigating the world of bespoke cake making can feel like traversing uncharted territory. With a myriad of options ranging from grocery store novelties to artisanal creations, it's easy to underestimate the true cost of a personalised celebration cake. Many assume a price tag of £30 or £40, perhaps stretching to £50 for something extra special. But as a seasoned bespoke cake maker, I know firsthand that the reality is far more nuanced.
I'll admit, even I grappled with pricing my own cakes at first. The fear of undervaluing my work loomed large, fueled by doubts of how clients would react to my higher price point. It's a daunting prospect, to say the least.
But fear not, for this guide aims to demystify the pricing process, providing clarity and transparency to both cake makers and clients alike.
First and foremost, it's important to recognise the craftsmanship and expertise behind each creation. As a bespoke cake maker, I pour my heart and soul into every design, drawing upon years of experience to bring visions to life. This level of skill and dedication is invaluable, deserving of fair compensation.
The costs of cake ingredients:
Quality is paramount in my kitchen. I use only the finest local ingredients, sourced
meticulously for their flavour and freshness. From premium flour to organic eggs, each component contributes to the rich taste and texture of my cakes. But quality comes at a price. I take time to make many fillings such as my fresh lemon curd or my passion fruit curd, both vibrant flavours that sets it apart.
Cake Consultations:
Beyond ingredients, the process of creating a birthday cake is a labour of love. It begins with meticulous planning and consultation with the customer. Understanding their preferences, dietary restrictions, and theme sets the stage for a personalised masterpiece. Ordering custom toppers or decorations adds another layer of detail, requiring time and coordination. And fresh cake flowers involves pre-ordering.
Creating the birthday cake:
Then comes the baking itself—a delicate balance of science and art. Baking the sponges alone takes about 1.5 hours, not including the time needed for them to cool properly. While the cakes cool, I prepare my signature buttercream, a process that involves sifting icing sugar, beating butter to perfection, and infusing flavours seamlessly.
Each layer is stacked with care, filled with luscious fillings, and coated in buttercream—a process that demands precision and patience.
The cake is meticulously covered three times in buttercream. The first layer is a crumb coat, sealing in moisture and creating a smooth foundation. Next comes a layer to cover, ensuring uniformity and flawlessness. Finally, a coloured layer that adds that 'wow' factor, transforming the cake into a work of edible art. In total this is usually up to 2-3 hours work for a single tier cake.
All of this takes time—hours of meticulous work that extends far beyond the final price tag. As a professional baker, I value my time and expertise, and I compensate myself accordingly and every minute spent in the kitchen is accounted for.
Birthday Cake Price:
The price of the cake itself can vary depending on factors like flavour, fillings, and extras. Premium flavours or exotic ingredients may incur additional costs, as do intricate designs or custom decorations. But at the end of the day, what you're paying for is not just a cake, but an experience—a celebration brought to life to create memories. My cakes currenlty start at £70 however, I have a miniumum spend..
So, the next time you marvel at a birthday cake's price tag, remember the journey that went into its creation. From the finest ingredients to the skilled hands that crafted it, each element contributes to its true value.
My starting prices: https://www.cakesbykirsten.com/birthdaycakes
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