Happy mail
How to post a cake so that it arrives in one piece Posting bars, cakes, cookies and confectionery is easier than you think. Baker and author Lucy Burton shares her foolproof ways to ensure your baking can travel well.
SHELF LIFE
This blondie, if wrapped in airtight packaging, will keep for 2 weeks. To post a cake there needs to be no elements, such as cream, that require fridge storage. Blondies and brownies can be sent with standard delivery, but anything with a shorter shelf life should be sent next day delivery.
PACKAGING •
Choosing your box The key to ensuring that items travel safely is to post them in a box as close in size to the wrapped item as possible. Empty space facilitates movement in transit, and it’s movement which can lead to breakages and squashing. If an item can’t move, it will travel beautifully. If you’re using the 20x30cm tin, half of that slab will fit perfectly, once wrapped, into a 21.5x15.5x5cm box. However, this size of box won’t fit through a regular letter box, so it’s worth warning your recipient that they should expect a parcel.
• Food-safe biodegradable cellophane or baking paper
To ensure your items stay fresh and are safe to eat, wrap them tightly and securely. I prefer real cellophane, but you can also use baking paper. You can either leave the slab whole or cut it into bars. I like to add a small sticker with a best-before date to ensure that the recipient knows how long the treats will last for. •
Tissue paper Wrapping your cellophaned goods generously in tissue paper adds an extra layer of cushioning and protection. I like to use at least two layers of tissue and a big enough sheet to ensure there’s extra tissue paper at the sides which, when folded down neatly, will offer extra cushioning. You can also use fabrics like cotton, linen or muslin, if you prefer. •
Ribbon or string: This is mainly decorative, but a tied ribbon or string also helps to hold it all in place, adding extra protection. •
Packing the box: If you’re sending a mixed box, place heavier slabs at the bottom and cookies and biscuits on top and scrunch up tissue paper balls to fill in the spaces. You could also use shredded tissue paper or wood wool. Finally, add a notecard or some candles if it’s for a birthday,