How to Cut a Cake Layer in Half

Last Updated: June 17, 2021

If you need to cut cake layers in half, there is a simple and accurate method that does not involve messing with knives or having your cake roll across the countertop. With floss and some toothpicks, you can slice the cake in half with ease.

Steps

1
Place toothpicks at the halfway point around the edges of the cake layer, as shown in the image.^{[1]
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2
Align unflavored dental floss around the row of toothpicks. If you're making a spongy cake, it helps to make a few cuts with a serrated knife along the toothpick row, to give the floss something to bite into.
3
When the floss is fully wrapped around the cake, cross the ends of the floss and hold each end in each hand. Pull each end out and away from the cake, so the floss cuts through the cake as the circle of floss tightens. Move the floss slightly from side to side to help the cutting movement.^{[2]
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4
Now you have two layers of cake.
5
Slide a piece of cardboard or a baking sheet (with no sides) between the two layers and lift off the top layer.
6
Finished.

Community Q&A

Question

Should the cake be completely cool before I cut it?

Community Answer

Yes. Leave it to cool overnight if possible. The fat hardens when it cools, thus firming up the cake.
Question

Will this method work on a loaf cake?

Community Answer

If the cake is on the harder side, it will likely not work. However, if it is spongy like the one in the picture, this method should work.
Question

When do I take the cake out of the pan?

Community Answer

You should take the cake out the pan as soon as it comes out of the oven and put it on a cooling rack.

Warnings

Be sure to remove all the toothpicks before frosting or serving––never poke the toothpicks so far in that you miss them.

Thanks!
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