Will refrigerating a cake make it dry?

It's a bit of a myth that refrigerating a cake always makes it dry. It depends on the type of cake and its ingredients:

Cakes that are more likely to dry out in the fridge:

* Cakes with a high moisture content: These include cakes made with lots of fresh fruit, custard, or whipped cream. The cold temperature can cause the moisture to condense and evaporate, leaving the cake dry.

* Cakes with a delicate crumb: These are cakes that are light and airy, like angel food cake or sponge cake. They tend to absorb moisture from the refrigerator, making them dense and dry.

Cakes that are less likely to dry out in the fridge:

* Dense cakes: These include cakes made with a lot of butter or oil, like pound cake or chocolate cake. They are less prone to drying out in the refrigerator.

* Cakes with frosting: Frosting acts as a barrier, helping to prevent moisture loss.

Tips to prevent cake from drying out in the fridge:

* Wrap tightly: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to seal the cake tightly and prevent air from reaching it.

* Store in an airtight container: This will also help to prevent moisture loss.

* Refrigerate for a short time: If possible, refrigerate the cake for a shorter period, like a few hours, rather than overnight.

Alternatives to refrigeration:

* Store at room temperature: If you're not concerned about spoilage, storing the cake at room temperature is a good option.

* Freeze the cake: This is a great way to preserve cake for a longer period. Just be sure to thaw it completely before serving.

Ultimately, whether or not refrigerating a cake makes it dry depends on the specific cake and how it's stored.