Freezer burn

After making beautiful cake layers, you will need to cut the top to even them out. This results in a straight cake. It's best not to cut cake as soon as it's out of the oven - if it's too soft, it will all crumble and break. Try wrapping your layers tightly in plastic wrap, sitting each on a cardboard cake round first, and freeze briefly. Put it in the freezer at least 30 minutes to an hour, longer if you prefer. The longer it's in there, the harder the cake layers get (obviously). You want the layers to be firm enough to cut and even out, but not so firm that it's too hard to cut. Place one hand on top to hold the cake in place, and use your cake knife to saw through the layer. Be careful of your fingers! Good luck and happy baking!