Cake Stands: Taking Entertaining to New Heights

A cake stand is not just a perch for your prettiest cakes – it is a stunning display that can be used for finger food, quick bites, and so much more! Cake stands take everything up a notch {literally and figuratively} and elevate the presentation of your tasty treats, no matter the occasion. We enjoy using our cake stands, which feature a classic ceramic base and domed glass top, as  serveware and the occasional table accessory, and we want to give you ideas on how to use them to their fullest potential.  

 

What is a Cake Stand? 

 

Cake stands are a type of stylish and functional serveware that is designed to hold and showcase cakes, pies, and other desserts. They usually feature a round plate on top of a pedestal that elevates it above the table. Pedestal heights can be three to six inches above your tablescape, and plate sizes can vary to fit any host’s needs. Cake stands may or may not have a glass dome on top: this is to protect the displayed goodies and add an extra “wow” factor.  

 

 

 

Cake Stand Styles 

 

There are endless options when it comes to styles of cake stands. They are often made from wood, ceramic, and glass, but other materials like stainless steel and plastic can be used, too. Similarly, while a traditional cake stand plate is round, you can find all kinds of different rectangle, square, and even triangle designs. Because there are so many different types of cake stands, have fun choosing one that best fits your style and needs.  

 

Different Ways to Use a Cake Stand 

 

Cake stands, despite the name, don’t have to just hold cakes. These fun serveware designs are ideal for displaying anything from appetizers and light bites to dessert bars and cookies. They are as versatile as you make them, so don’t be afraid to get creative and showcase whatever food {or décor} you can think of on yours.  

 

Displaying Appetizers on  Cake Stands 

 

Impress your guests when you use a cake stand to serve appetizers. This serving method is unexpected, looks amazing, and is extremely practical. We enjoy using a single-tier cake stand to display a standout appetizer, like a tomato tart or pimiento cheese ball. Around the main appetizer, try layering some smaller bites, like eggplant caponata on bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms. That way, it’s easy for your guests to grab a bite {or two} and mingle.    

 

It may be easy to load up your cake stand with appetizers, but resist the urge to make it overwhelming and instead focus on a few favorites. We like to play around with different colors and textures so that our appetizers are fun and eye-catching. If we are hosting a larger party, we might even select a few cake stands of varying heights to display our snacks.  

 

 

 

Cake Stand Charcuterie Board 

 

Using a cake stand for charcuterie is a creative way to elevate your presentation and add visual appeal to your appetizer spread or your charcuterie party. Charcuterie boards are visually appealing on their own, so they look extra special elevated on a cake stand.  

 

A larger cake stand works well for bigger events, while a smaller one can be perfect for more intimate gatherings. Don’t forget to add a matching glass dome on top of the charcuterie so the cheeses and meats are protected and fresh for your guests!  

 

We like to start by adding a base of cheeses and meats to the stand, sometimes adding depth and stacking foods in the order we suggest eating them like putting down a layer of crackers, meat, then cheese. Then, we add fresh fruits, herbs, and colorful vegetables around the charcuterie to enhance the flavor and the visuals of the spread.  

 

Additions we Love 

 

We like to add these inspired accessories onto and around our charcuterie cake stand  to add character and provide some necessary function: 

 

• Toothpick holders 

• Cocktail napkins 

• Spreaders 

• Wood appetizer utensils 

 

Cake Stand Fruit Display 

 

A cake stand also makes for a stunning fruit display, as beautifully arranged seasonal fruit is not only visually appealing but is also the perfect opportunity to set out pieces of your menu. We like to curate a selection of fruits that balance flavor and color as well as complement the main meal we will be serving at that gathering.  

 

When arranging fruit on a cake stand, start with the larger fruits at the base and then layer smaller fruits, like berries or melon cubes. This gives your display a dynamic feel while also allowing you to load more fruit onto your stand. This can also be done by adding fruit skewers, which are as convenient as they are cute. 

 

We would also like to point out that fruit on a cake stand makes for functional and vibrant home décor. We like to keep a cake stand topped with apples and other fruits in the middle of our island or table to add easy-to-access healthy snacks along with a pop of color to our space.  

 

 

 

Adding Serving Space with a Cake Stand 

 

Using a cake stand as serveware can also maximize the space in your serving area. Because cake stands are lifted off of the surface they are set on, space under and around the stand is clear. This way, you have room to add more tabletop accessories, like salt and pepper shakers and napkins or other dishes in the empty space.  

 

Using a Cake Stand to Display Cakes 

 

Now, for the obvious one – use a cake stand to showcase your delicious cake. Nothing shows off a freshly baked cake better than a cake stand {because that’s what it was made for}. With the elevated pedestal, your creation will not be missed and rise above all the other desserts on the table. Your cake will quickly become the focal point of the spread and get its proper time to shine.  

 

How to Move a Cake to a Cake Stand 

 

After all the hard work you put into baking your cake, it can be daunting to transfer it over to a cake stand. Don’t fret, and follow these steps to move your cake smoothly and safely: 

 

Step 1: Before moving the cake, make sure it’s completely cooled and set on a sturdy surface like a cutting board, platter, or plate.  

Step 2: Place the cake stand on a flat surface to avoid any wobbling during the transfer.  

Step 3: If the cake is on a plate, use a flat, wide spatula or cake lifter to gently slide underneath the cake, supporting it from the bottom {have another person assist you if your cake is extra tall or heavy}.  

Step 4: Carefully lift the cake, keeping it level, and position it over the center of the cake stand. Gently lower the cake onto the stand, ensuring it is centered and stable.   

There you have it – a perfectly displayed cake. 

 

 

 

Displaying Other Desserts on a Cake Stand 

 

By far, the most popular way to use a cake stand is to display desserts of all kinds. Anything from cupcakes to brownies to candy fits perfectly on the round surface of a cake stand and can be preserved under its clear glass dome.   

Present your other desserts on a cake stand and make your home feel like a cozy confectionary shop. Arrange the desserts carefully so they are shown off in all their glory. Add in stands at multiple heights with different treats for a layered, dimensional look at your next dessert table. 

 

Examples of Desserts to Present: 

 

• Caramels 

• Chocolates 

• Meringues 

• Puddings 

• Tiramisu 

 

Cake Stands for Baked Goods Storage 

 

When you add a domed glass lid to the cake stand, it quickly becomes a great way to keep any of your bakery favorites fresh. Don’t hide your treats under foil or in a container; instead, place them on your cake stand for everyone to enjoy.  

 

Our Favorite Baked Goods for Cake Stands: 

 

• Pies 

• Cupcakes 

• Muffins  

• Donuts  

• Cookies 

• Brownies 

• Pound Cakes 

 

Cake Stands for Home Décor 

 

Add tiered storage or displays to any room in your home with a cake stand. With their pedestal stands, they look elegant and don’t take up much room. We’ve seen cake stands displayed in bathrooms, on mantles, or at entryways for a variety of uses, including: 

 

• Plant Stand – Add a few small potted plants to a cake stand for an elevated look. Place the cake stand on your kitchen counter or as a centerpiece for your dinner table to add greenery without worrying about dirt.  

• Tiered Jewelry Storage – Cake stands with their domed lids keep jewelry safe from dust while letting you see every piece you own. This is also a great way to decorate your bedroom, as the pretty colors and metals will shine through the glass 

• Perfume Storage – What better way is there to display your pretty bottles than under a glass dome? The beauty of your perfume bottles can be showcased, and you can easily grab your chosen perfume of the day.  

• Holiday Display– Create a winter wonderland in an elevated take on a snow globe with a cake stand display. You can set the scene with mini trees and people to create a winter scene or simply display some of your favorite ornaments for all to see.  

 

 

Our Favorite Cake Stand Styles 

 

Our cake stands come in two sizes and in several different patterns across our Signature White and Iris Blue collections. These stands effortlessly complement any décor and set the stage for memorable sweets, treats, and appetizers {and plenty in between}.  

 

Signature White Ruffle 14in Cake Stand	Iris Blue Burst Small Ruffle Cake Stand

 

Signature White 11in Cake Stand	Iris Blue Drop Large Ruffle Cake Stand

 

Whether you use them as stylish home accents in the kitchen or as functional serveware on the dessert table, they bring both fun and versatility to gatherings of all sizes. These stands are an instant entertainment essential. Some features of our cake stand designs that are guaranteed to impress you are: 

 

• All our cake stands are made of durable and high-quality earthenware, making them heavy and good-quality serveware styles.  

• All our cake stands feature Coton Colors’ signature ruffled edge, which instantly elevates any presentation.  

• All our cake stands have a matching or complementary glass dome that can go over them to cover and protect the treats you place on top.  

• All our cake stands feature a round top with a generous amount of space to hold treats.  

Size of Cake Stand 

 

If you are unsure what size to get when purchasing your cake stand, we always recommend erring on the side of safety and going for the larger size. Oversized cake stands can provide a nice contrast between the cake and the stand, plus, they can keep your goods from falling off the cake stand. At Coton Colors, we have 11-inch and 14-inch cake stands. For perspective, an 11-inch cake stand can hold a 10-inch cake, which has approximately 21 servings, whereas a 14-inch cake stand can hold a 14-inch cake, which serves 38 people.  

 

Do you need a Glass Dome for your Cake Stand? 

 

Small Glass Dome	Large Ring Handle Glass Dome	Small Ring Handle Glass Dome

 

We recommend getting the matching glass dome for your cake stand for visual, health, and safety purposes. Ours features a handle to provide a secure grip and make it easy to lift the dome off the cake stand without needing to touch the glass, which can leave smudges on the surface.  

These domes are great for keeping cakes, pastries, and other treats fresh for longer by creating a more airtight environment and acting as a barrier against dust, insects, and other potential contaminants. Furthermore, the transparency of the glass dome allows guests to see the delicious treats.   

From elevating cakes and desserts to giving appetizers and décor a stylish twist, cake stands are true multitaskers of the serveware repertoire. Their simple yet elegant design impresses guests and makes it a well-deserved staple in any host’s arsenal.   

Whether showing off your baking or your charcuterie board skills, a cake stand proves that the best serveware can do a little bit of everything. Grab your favorite cake stand, get creative, and take your entertaining game to new heights.