Wooden Cake Stand

A wooden cake stand, the plainer relative of the ceramic one. Same job — lift the bake off the table — but in timber rather than glazed china, which suits a rustic loaf cake, a tart or a cheese course better than a formal iced sponge.

Wood has a second advantage here: it doubles as a serving board when it isn't holding a cake. A raised board is genuinely useful on a crowded table, giving you a second level to work with when the surface is full.

Why you'll love it

• Raises the bake — height makes it the centre of the table.
• Warm timber — suits rustic bakes, tarts and cheese better than china.
• Doubles as a raised board — a second level on a crowded table.
• Nothing to chip — wood survives what ceramic doesn't.

Details

• Material: wood
• Ideal for: loaf cakes, tarts, cheese, pastries, table displays

Wipe it rather than washing it, and oil occasionally. Cut on the board and it will scar, so slice elsewhere and return the cake to the stand.