Rated Excellent on Trustpilot
What is the Difference Between Cake Boards and Drums?
• Lynsey Macdonald
Cake boards and drums are essential pieces of equipment in any cakey enthusiast's baking arsenal. But with so many shapes, sizes, and materials available today, picking the right board for the right cake is super important.
Not only does the right cake board support the structural integrity of your cake, it also gives it extra stability when transporting, and a professional-looking standard when it comes to presentation.
When it comes to choosing the right cake board, the main difference comes down to the thickness of the board, as well as the materials it is made from. Drum boards are your thickest option for the most structural support. Whereas standard cake boards are a cost-friendly option where a drum may not be necessary.
Table of contents
- What's the difference? A quick guide.
- What are Cake Boards for?
- What are Cake Drums for?
- Masonite Cake Boards
- Are cake boards reusable?
- What can I use instead of a cake board?
What's the difference between cake boards and drums?
Cake boards vs cake drums. A debate many cake artists have found themselves having! We've put together a quick guide to give you a snapshot of the differences. Check it out and keep reading for a more detailed breakdown of each...
| Cake Boards | Cake Drums | |
| Standard depth | approx 3mm | approx 12mm |
| Material | usually cardboard | usually thick cardboard |
| Style | standard foil covered | often covered with foil or food safe paper |
| Recommended use | use to present lightweight cakes and bakes, or as an extra support between cake layers | use to present heavier cakes like fruit cakes and multi-tier cakes - stronger support |
| Is it reusable? | Mostly reusable if foil covered - check individual board label | Mostly reusable if foil covered - check individual drum label |
What are standard cake boards for?
Your standard cardboard cake boards or STD cake boards usually measure 3mm thick, are covered in a silver foil, and are generally used for lighter, smaller cakes. They can also be used as extra support between cake tiers. They make a great base for inserting dowels between cake tiers. Being as thin as they are, they are hardly noticeable in your assembled masterpiece.
Our 3mm Round Silver Cake Board is a classic, and a popular choice with customers for so many cake projects!
What are drum boards for?
Cake Drum boards are a lot thicker than your standard cake boards, made out of thick cardboard that typically measures around 12mm thick. In terms of what cake drum boards are for, they are ideal for heavier cakes. Think large, heavy sponges, fruit cakes, and tiered wedding cakes.
Our Premium Silver Round Drum Cake Board is a best-seller, and available in a range of sizes up to 20".
Should my cake drum be bigger than the cake?
Yes, you should aim for a cake drum board approximately 2 to 4 inches larger than the cake you'll be placing on it. This is to give the cake as much stability as possible. It will be much more balanced and less likely to topple over when moving it! A larger board also ensures there will be space between the cake and the cake box when transporting it, which is important for protecting your designs.
Practically, a cake drum larger than the cake is sensible too. It provides an edge for you to turn, rotating the cake more easily when decorating. Additionally, it is easier to carry too, with space to hold around the cake.
And finally, some people like to pipe around the bottom of the cake. A larger cake board gives you the space to do that!
What are masonite cake boards for?
A popular in-between option, masonite cake boards are made from compressed wood fibres (MDF) and are usually between 4mm and 6mm thick. Though some do range up to 8mm. Their extra strength means you can opt for a thinner board but with much more strength than your standard cardboard option.
Masonite boards are a popular choice with cake artists as they are available in a wide range of colours and patterns.
This Round White Matt Masonite Board provides a clean, bright, sturdy base for any bake!
Are cake boards reusable?
In the age of reduce, reuse and recycle, you can save yourself some time and money when it comes to cake boards. Most cake boards with a foil covering can simply be wiped down after use with a damp cloth. Just be careful to gently wipe and not scrub too hard, and you'll fine you can use the same boards for a good few upcoming cake projects!
What can you use instead of a cake board?
If you don't have a cake board to hand, there are other options! For a lightweight cake or bake, a serving plate or platter should be sufficient.
There is also the option (if you're going for practical over glamour!) of using a clean (preferably never used!) chopping board in place of a cake board.
If you are creating a multi-tier or heavy cake, however, you really do need a professional quality cake drum to ensure it has the proper support!
You can follow us online for more cake content on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube!
Looking for more cakey tips and tricks?
How to Crumb Coat a Cake for Beginners
The Ultimate Guide to Food Colourings for Cake Decorating
What’s the Difference Between Sugarpaste, Modelling Paste & Flower Paste?
