HOW TO SLICE A MODERN TALL CAKE PROPERLY

Modern tall cakes are beautiful, elegant and instantly turn into the centrepiece of any celebration. But they also require a different cutting technique than a traditional sponge cake.
If you’ve never cut a tall cake before — don’t worry. It’s simple once you understand the method.

This guide will help you slice your cake neatly, get the correct number of servings and make the presentation look as impressive as the cake itself.

1. Why tall cakes need a special cutting method

Tall cakes (usually around 15–18 cm high) often include multiple layers of sponge, creams, curds, confit and textures. When cut like a traditional round cake — into triangular wedges — they tend to:

• collapse or separate

• produce messy slices

• create uneven portions

• waste a lot of cake

• result in fewer servings than expected

That’s why professionals use the vertical strip method. It keeps each slice stable, neat and consistent.

2. Tools you’ll need

For clean, elegant portions, prepare:

• a long, sharp knife

• a chopping board

• kitchen paper

• a jug of hot water

A hot, dry knife is the secret to perfect slices.

3. Preparing the cake before slicing

Before cutting:

• remove fresh florals, toppers and any decorative elements

• if the cake is tiered, carefully separate the tiers

• remove internal dowels or support rods from each tier

This keeps everything clean, safe and easy to handle.

4. How to cut a tall cake: the step-by-step method

Step 1 — Mark your cutting lines

Gently score straight vertical lines across the top of the cake.
This guides your cuts and keeps the slices even.

Step 2 — Cut long vertical strips

Cut straight down through the cake to create a tall rectangular strip.
Lift the strip onto a chopping board — don’t slice it while it’s still standing on the cake.

Step 3 — Portion the strip

Slice the tall strip into smaller servings.
These neat rectangular pieces hold their shape beautifully and provide the correct number of servings listed for your cake size.

Step 4 — Keep the knife hot and clean

Dip the knife into hot water, wipe dry, slice… and repeat.
This prevents dragging fillings through the layers and keeps each piece pristine.

5. Serving sizes for tall cakes

Tall cakes yield more servings than standard-height cakes.
Whilst exact numbers depend on your size, as a general guide:

• 6″ cake: approx. 12–15 servings

• 7″ cake: approx. 18–20 servings

• 8″ cake: approx. 22–26 servings

• 9″ cake: approx. 25–30 servings

• 10″ cake: approx. 30–38 servings

If your cake is multi-tiered, servings are combined across all tiers.

Tall cake slices look stunning when cut properly.
Serve them as elegant, neat rectangles — they plate beautifully, hold their structure, and guests find them easier to enjoy.

To keep the texture perfect:

• store the cake in the fridge until shortly before serving

• allow 1–1.5 hours at room temperature for the creams to soften

• slice just before serving for the freshest result

Proper storage ensures smooth slicing and maintains the intended flavour and texture.