Whether you’re planning a backyard party in the middle of summer or just need your dessert to hold up until serving time, keeping an ice cream cake from turning into a puddle is a real concern. The good news? With a few simple steps, your cake can look (and taste) as good at the end of the event as it did when it left the freezer.
How can you keep ice cream cakes from melting too quickly?
To prevent melting, store ice cream cakes in the coldest part of your freezer, avoid frequent door openings, use insulated cake boxes or cooler bags during transport, and limit time spent at room temperature before serving.
Why Do Ice Cream Cakes Melt So Fast?
Ice cream cakes begin to soften at around -15°C and will start melting quickly once exposed to room temperature, especially during summer events. Because they’re made of ice cream layers rather than sponge, they don’t have structural support once they thaw. This makes temperature control crucial from the moment the cake leaves your freezer.
If you’re ordering from a Melbourne cake shop during the warmer months, we always recommend asking about pickup timing and delivery insulation.
What’s the Best Way to Store an Ice Cream Cake at Home?
Your home freezer is your best friend here — but not all spots inside it are created equal. Aim for the back of the freezer, where the temperature stays most stable. Avoid placing the cake near the door, which experiences temperature shifts every time it’s opened.
If you’re ordering ahead, wrap the cake box in a layer of foil or cling wrap for extra insulation, and keep it on a flat, sturdy surface. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of it.
You can explore more about our delivery and pickup options if you’re tight on freezer space or need timed handover.
How Can You Transport an Ice Cream Cake Without It Melting?
Transport is where most cakes meet their end — but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Use an insulated cake box, cool bag, or even a styrofoam esky if you’re going long distances. Add a layer of dry ice or frozen gel packs, but never let them touch the cake directly. If you’re travelling more than 20 minutes, pre-cool your container.
Pro tip: Place your cake box inside a secondary box with frozen water bottles. It’ll act like a mini freezer.
For more ideas, check our custom cake transport guide or contact us directly.
What’s the Ideal Time to Take It Out Before Serving?
Timing is everything. Take the cake out about 10–15 minutes before serving, depending on the weather. This gives the outer layer time to soften slightly for easier slicing, but keeps the core frozen and intact.
Avoid setting the cake in direct sunlight or warm areas — even indoors — and always keep it inside the box until just before display.
Need help choosing the right size and timing for your event? Our team is here to help with ice cream cake recommendations that suit your guest list and setting.
What Extra Tools Can Help?
A few low-tech tools can go a long way:
- Cake carrier with lid: Helps protect from heat and contaminants
- Dry ice in a cooler: For long trips or outdoor storage
- Cake stand with ice tray base: Keeps base cool while serving
- Sharp, warmed knife: Makes clean slices with less time in open air
Planning a picnic or park celebration? Check out our readymade cakes for fast pickup and less prep.
TL;DR – How to Make Your Ice Cream Cake Last Longer
- Store it in the coldest part of the freezer, away from the door
- Use insulated boxes and cold packs during transport
- Take it out only 10–15 minutes before serving
- Avoid direct heat and frequent freezer door openings
- Use tools like dry ice and cake carriers for extra protection
A bit of preparation means you can serve a picture-perfect cake — even in 30°C heat.
