Cakes without frosting are still cakes, just without any decorative icing or frosting on the outside. The most common names for unfrosted cakes are:
Naked Cake
A naked cake is a cake that has no frosting on the outside. It showcases the bare crumb and layers of the cake. Naked cakes have become a popular wedding cake trend in recent years. The exposed crumbs and layers give it a rustic, unfinished look. While naked cakes have no frosting on the outside, they can still have filling between the layers, like jam, ganache, or buttercream.
Unfrosted Cake
An unfrosted cake is another term for a cake baked without any exterior frosting or icing. It simply refers to the plain cake on its own, without any decorative additions on the outside. Unfrosted cakes are versatile and can be served on their own for a more humble dessert, or later frosted as desired.
Plain Cake
A plain cake has no extra decorations, glazes, icings or frosting. It is just the basic cake baked in a pan. Plain cakes are simple cakes that rely on the flavor of the cake itself without additional embellishments. They can make a nice backdrop for fresh fruit, whipped cream or other adornments once sliced and plated.
Nude Cake
A nude cake is another variation of an unfrosted cake. It contains no exterior frosting, allowing the naked crumb to show through. The term “nude” refers to the bare, exposed cake layers sans frosting. A nude cake will sometimes have filling between the layers, but no coating covering the external sides.
Un-iced Cake
“Un-iced” is a British English term for a cake without any icing or frosting on top. An un-iced cake would be the plain baked cake on its own. It may have jam or other spreads between the layers, but no frosting on the top or sides. Un-iced cakes are simple, homey cakes meant to showcase the flavor of the cake itself.
Frosted vs Unfrosted Cakes
Here is a comparison between frosted and unfrosted cakes:
Frosted Cake | Unfrosted Cake |
---|---|
Has icing, frosting or ganache on the exterior | No icing, frosting or exterior coating |
Decorated for aesthetics and occasion | Plain, simple appearance |
Can hide imperfections in cake layers | Exposes the texture and crumb of the cake |
Additional sweetness from frosting | Allows the natural cake flavor to shine |
More complex, layered flavors | Reliant on the cake itself for flavor |
Holds up better for transport | More delicate and prone to breaking |
Reasons to Make an Unfrosted Cake
Here are some benefits of preparing an unfrosted cake:
Showcases the Cake Itself
An unfrosted cake puts all the emphasis on the cake recipe itself. Without frosting, the flavor, texture and aroma of the cake can be fully appreciated.
Lightens Up the Dessert
Frosting adds a dense layer of sweetness and richness to a cake. An unfrosted cake has a fresher, lighter taste and feel.
No Need to Frost Ahead
Unfrosted cakes require less planning ahead since you don’t have to worry about the frosting melting or getting damaged in transport.
Healthier Alternative
Going without frosting can remove a large source of refined sugar, calories, and fat from an otherwise frosted cake.
Good for Simple Occasions
An unfrosted cake works well for casual gatherings, picnics, or low-key celebrations where you want dessert but minimal fuss.
Can Show Off Fillings
Without frosting, any fillings between the layers like fruit, curd, or ganache become visible and part of the presentation.
Kid-Friendly
Kids often enjoy unfrosted cakes since they can see the cake layers and fillings inside. The cake may also be less intensely sweet.
Tips for Making Unfrosted Cakes
Here are some tips for baking great unfrosted cakes:
Choose Sturdy Cake Recipes
Dense, sturdy cakes like pound cake and oil-based cakes hold their structure best without frosting. Avoid crumbly or delicate cakes.
Level the Tops
Use a serrated knife to slice any domed tops flat after baking. This creates an even surface for stacking and filling layers.
Use Clean Cuts
When splitting and filling layers, make the neatest cuts possible so the filling doesn’t ooze out the sides.
Spread Fillings Thinly
Thick fillings like jam, ganache or buttercream can be messy between layers without frosting to contain them.
Wrap Tightly
Once assembled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to hold the layers together firmly for transport or storage.
Serve Fresh
Plan to serve unfrosted cakes within 1-2 days of baking for the best texture and presentation.
Add Simple Adornments
Dust with powdered sugar, top with fruit, or decorate with nuts to finish off your unfrosted cake with minimal effort.
Common Types of Cakes to Leave Unfrosted
Almost any cake can be left unfrosted, but some varieties in particular shine without frosting, such as:
Pound Cakes
The dense, rich crumb of pound cake is delicious on its own. Pound cakes hold their shape well when layered and un-frosted.
Bundt Cakes
Bundt cakes have a beautiful presentation right out of the pan. The fluted shape and exposed surface make frosting unnecessary.
Olive Oil Cakes
Olive oil gives these cakes incredible moisture – no frosting needed. Their close crumb also perfectly showcases any fruit fillings.
Spice Cakes
The warmth of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and other spices pairs beautifully with the naked crumb of this homey cake.
Snack Cakes
Fun, portable little cakes perfect for lunches and snacks are best left unfrosted so they stay tidy for eating by hand.
Shortcakes
Shortcakes are classic unfrosted treats. Their tender crumb soaks up juices from fruit fillings and whipped cream toppings.
Coffee Cakes
These breakfast-friendly cakes tend to skip frosting in favor of streusel, crumble, or crunchy toppings to create texture contrast instead.
Conclusion
Unfrosted cakes go by many names – naked cakes, plain cakes, or just cakes baked without icing or frosting. While they lack decorative topping, they allow the flavors and textures of the cake itself to shine through. From pound cakes to bundt cakes, many styles are delicious straight out of the oven with minimal adornment. Unfrosted cakes make a great option for simple celebrations, picnics, or anytime you want to highlight a beautiful cake recipe without lots of extra fat, sugar, and calories from frosting.