I used to be a supermarket cake decorator. Here are 9 of my best tips for ordering a cake.

Many supermarkets provide the choice to purchase a ready-made cake from their bakery display or order a customized cake. The author of this piece worked as a supermarket cake decorator for two years before launching her own bakery. She advises asking for whipped cream if you prefer a less sweet cake, or for a mix of cake flavors to cater to different guests.

It might be worthwhile to inquire about free smash cakes for children or using your own toys for a birthday cake. These supermarket cakes can serve as a cost-effective and convenient way to celebrate various occasions. However, not all supermarket cakes are of equal quality. According to the author, who worked in a popular supermarket's bakery section for two years before starting her own bakery, not all supermarket cakes are created equally.

When placing your order, do so well in advance of your event. Some supermarkets bake cakes on-site, but many collaborate with prebaked, frozen cakes. In such cases, the bakery typically maintains a stock of common cake flavors (vanilla, chocolate) and a limited selection of additional flavors (carrot, red velvet, marble). To ensure you get your preferred flavor, place an order for your custom cake with a two to three-week notice.

This allows the decorator and bakery enough time to confirm that your desired flavor is in stock. If the frosting on supermarket cakes tends to be too sweet, request whipped cream instead. If the typical buttercream frosting on grocery-store cakes is too sweet for you, inquire if the bakery offers alternatives. Vanilla buttercream is often the default choice, but it is usually not the only option.

Some supermarket bakeries can use fresh whipped cream for cake topping, along with other frosting options such as cream-cheese frosting, chocolate frosting, coconut-pecan frosting (commonly used for German chocolate cakes), and even chocolate ganache. Generally, you won't know for certain unless you ask. Consider asking if the bakery can create half-and-half flavors.

You may not have to choose between chocolate or vanilla cake. When ordering, inquire about the possibility of having half vanilla and half chocolate, so everyone at your gathering can enjoy a slice of their preferred flavor. This is often feasible with half-sheet cakes and two-layer round cakes. It might also work with other cake flavors.

If you have a unique or specific request for cake decorations, speak with the cake decorator. The author notes that while you can usually speak with any bakery employee for cake orders, if you have a specialized request, it's best to contact the cake decorator directly via phone or in person. In the author's experience, they often work early shifts to prepare orders for the display case.

Decorating is their specialty, and they can provide valuable input on whether your specific design is achievable. If not, they may be able to suggest an alternative. When ordering a cake for a child's birthday, consider bringing in your own toys for the decorator to incorporate into the design. Some supermarkets may not have the child's favorite character, but you can ask staff about the possibility of using small, washed figurines or leaving space for a specific toy during the design process.

If you prefer a semi-customized cake, you don't have to rely solely on the cake decorator's design. You can order a plain, frosted cake in your desired size and add decorations yourself. Use edible flowers to dress up the cake for a more formal occasion, or add candy and sprinkles in your desired colors. You can even incorporate your own fun candles, toys, and knickknacks on top.

If you anticipate having leftover cake, request a plastic cake container instead of a traditional bakery box for pickup. Some bakeries may not have this option available, so it depends on their supplies. Lastly, if you forgot to order ahead, don't despair. Even if it's a few days or the morning of your event, consider asking the store's cake decorator if they can create a simple design for you while you shop for other items or if you can grab a premade cake from the bakery display and add your own finishing touches.