How do you keep the outside of a cake crispy after refrigerate it?

It's tricky to keep a cake completely crispy after refrigeration, as the cold environment tends to soften even the crispiest parts. However, there are a few techniques that can help:

Before Refrigeration:

* Bake thoroughly: Ensure your cake is fully baked and cooled completely before refrigerating. Undercooked cakes are more prone to becoming soggy.

* Use a cake board: Placing the cake on a cake board (a sturdy cardboard circle designed for cakes) will help to keep the bottom from getting soft.

* Crisp up the exterior: For cakes with a crusty or crunchy exterior, you can try brushing it with a simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, heated until dissolved) before refrigerating. This will help lock in moisture and prevent the crust from softening too much.

While Refrigerating:

* Proper Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container, but don't seal it completely. Leave a tiny crack open to allow some air circulation, which can help prevent condensation that might make the cake soggy.

* Keep Away from other Foods: The cake will absorb odors from other foods stored in the refrigerator, so make sure it is in its own container away from strong-smelling items.

After Refrigeration:

* Re-crisp: If the cake has softened, you can try re-crisping the exterior by placing it in a preheated oven at a low temperature (200-250°F) for a few minutes. This will help to dry out the surface and make it crispier again.

* Quick Fix: You can also use a blow torch to lightly toast the surface for a quick and effective crisping effect.

Important Notes:

* Cake Type: Some cake types are naturally more prone to softening than others. For example, cakes with a high moisture content, like pound cake, will be more difficult to keep crisp.

* Refrigeration Time: The longer you refrigerate the cake, the more likely it is to soften.

* Enjoy Quickly: Even with these methods, a refrigerated cake will not be as crisp as a freshly baked one.

Ultimately, the best way to enjoy a crispy cake is to eat it fresh!