Cake Preparation

Baking the Cake

Baking Times, Batter Amounts & Number of Servings

One cake mix yields 4 to 5 1/2 cups of batter. Pans are usually filled 1/2 to 2/3 full; 3" deep pans should be filled only 1/2 full. Batter amounts on these charts are for pans 2/3 full of batter. For large cakes, always check for doneness after they have baked for 1 hour.

Note: For Pans 10" and larger, use a heating core when baking. Use 2 cores for 18" pans.

The charts below show baking information and serving amounts for both 2-inch pans and 3-inch high pans. The figures for 2-inch pans are based on a 2-layer or 4-inch depth cake. The figures for 3-inch pans are based on a 1-layer cake which has been torted and filled to reach a 3-inch depth.

The serving amounts listed are based on party-sized portions of approximately 1-1/2 x 2 inches or wedding-sized portions which are cut smaller, about 1 x 2 inches. Cakes from 3 to 6 in. high, baked in the same size pan, would yield the same number of servings because they follow the same pattern of cutting. Cakes shorter than 3 in. would yield half the number of servings indicated for that pan.

The number of servings given is meant as a guide only. Icing amounts are very general and will vary with consistency, thickness applied and tips used. Icing amounts allow for top and bottom borders.

Wedding Cake Baking and Cutting Guide - 2 in. Deep Pans
Wedding Cake Baking and Cutting Guide - 3 in. Deep Pans
Party Cake Baking and Cutting Guide - 2 in. Deep Pans
Party Cake Baking and Cutting Guide - 3 in. Deep Pans