How to make a beautiful wedding cake

Grand Marnier Whipped Cream

Prep time:  About 5 minutes

Notes: Be sure your cream is very cold before whipping. The cream may be whipped up to 2 hours before using; cover and chill. You will need a total of at least three full batches: half a recipe (1 quart, measured after whipping) to fill cake layers (step 2 of “Wedding Cake Assembly”), one recipe for the crumb coating for all layers (step 3), one recipe for final frosting of all layers (step 4), and at least half a recipe for piping (or up to a full recipe for more elaborate decorations).

Makes:  2 quarts (8 cups)

• 1 quart whipping cream (see notes above)
• 1⁄4 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons Grand Marnier or other orange flavored liqueur

In a large bowl, with a mixer at high speed, beat cream until soft peaks form. Add sugar and Grand Marnier; beat until cream holds stiff peaks.

Grand Marnier–Marmalade Filling

Prep time: About 5 minutes

Makes: About 3½ cups (enough for a 4-tiered wedding cake)

• 3½ cups orange marmalade
• 1⁄4 cup Grand Marnier or other orange-flavored liqueur

In a bowl, stir marmalade and Grand Marnier until well blended.

Next:   How to assemble the wedding cake