Cake Boards & Box Sizes: What Size Board To Choose For Your Cake

Choosing the right cake board and box size is one of the most important — and often overlooked — parts of presenting and transporting your cakes.

The wrong board size can make your cake look awkward or unstable. The right one elevates your design and keeps the cake safe during delivery.

👉 In this quick guide, I’ll show you:
✅ Exactly what size board to use for any cake
✅ How to match your box size correctly
✅ My pro tips for beautiful cake presentation & transport

→ If you love creating decorated cakes, explore my Buttercream & Cake Decorating Masterclass - CLICK HERE it's packed with professional tips to make your cakes shine.

Why Choosing the Right Cake Board & Box Matters

Presentation is everything. A beautifully frosted cake on the wrong-sized board instantly loses its impact. Worse, the wrong box or thin board can cause damage during delivery.

Here’s why board & box sizing matters:
✔️ Professional look — The right board frames your cake beautifully
✔️ Safe transport — Correct box size prevents sliding and damage
✔️ Support — Sturdy boards prevent sagging or breakage

👉 General rule: Use a cake board 2 inches larger than your cake. Go larger if you want extra space for writing, florals, or piped decorations.

Always use thick cake boards for buttercream, novelty, or celebration cakes — thin boards won’t support your cake properly.

Match the box size to your board. A box the same size as the board keeps it stable in transport.

Cake Board & Box Size Guide

Round Cakes

6-inch cake (15 cm): 8-inch board (20 cm)
8-inch cake (20 cm): 10-inch board (25 cm)
9-inch cake (23 cm): 11-inch board (28 cm)
10-inch cake (25 cm): 12-inch board (30 cm)
12-inch cake (30 cm): 14-inch board (35 cm)

Square Cakes

6-inch cake (15 cm): 8-inch board (20 cm)
8-inch cake (20 cm): 10-inch board (25 cm)
10-inch cake (25 cm): 12-inch board (30 cm)
12-inch cake (30 cm): 14-inch board (35 cm)

Rectangular Cakes

Quarter sheet (9x13 in / 23x33 cm): 10x14-inch board (25x35 cm)
Half sheet (12x18 in / 30x45 cm): 14x20-inch board (35x50 cm)
Full sheet (18x24 in / 45x60 cm): 20x26-inch board (50x65 cm)

Tiered Cakes

• Each tier should sit on a board the same size as the tier.

• The bottom tier should sit on a board 2 inches larger than the base tier — for stability & space for decorations.

Pro Tips for Cake Presentation & Transport

✔️ Always use thick cake boards — especially for heavy or tall cakes
✔️ Match your box height to your cake — tall cakes need tall boxes
✔️ Use non-slip mats under boards for added stability
✔️ Decorate the board — a simple ribbon or edge treatment elevates the look

→ Want to finish your cakes beautifully? Explore my Ultimate Guide to Cake Fillings & Frostings - CLICK HERE → packed with tips for layering, flavour balance, and elegant finishes.

→ Related: Cake Storage Made Simple - CLICK HERE

More Cake Resources to Explore

🎓 Buttercream & Cake Decorating Masterclass - CLICK HERE
Learn professional piping, stacking, and decorating techniques — plus my signature buttercream styles.

📘 FREE Piping Guide for Mini Loaf Cakes - CLICK HERE
Yes — these tips apply to loaf cakes too! Perfect for elegant gift bakes.

🍫 Dubai Chocolate Mini Loaf Cake Recipe - CLICK HERE
My most popular mini loaf — ideal for selling as an elegant, luxury bake.

📚 The Ultimate Guide to Mini Loaf Pan Cakes - CLICK HERE
Selling cakes? Read this guide next — it will help you maximise shelf life and customer experience.

Before You Go…

If this guide was helpful, you’ll love Faye's Baking Atelier - guides, pro tips, and clean-ingredient recipes to help you bake with confidence.

→ Join Faye's Baking Atelier - CLICK HERE

And if you want to take your cake decorating to the next level:
→ Buttercream & Cake Decorating Masterclass - CLICK HERE TO ENROL TODAY