I've looked through some threads about this and so far I haven't really found an answer.

Really !!!- i thought there were epics written about this very subject

I have noticed that my cakes are bulging on the sides where the layers are put together. Most of my cakes don't have filling, so it's not the filling coming out. I do put a layer of buttercream between each layer of cake so I assume it's the buttercream layer coming out.

Hmmm, sorry, but isn't a layer of Buttercream a *filling* in between each layer of cake?

But why?  My cakes are not frozen or really cold when I put them together so it's not a settling issue right?  Yes, thats exactely what it is vogt51. When I put a layer of cake on another one, I push it down a little and the buttercream oozes out a little from between them and then I scrape that off before I move on.

There is your problem right there - you *move on* too quickly - thus not allowing your *filled* cake to settle.

After you have filled your cake - you must let it set up or settle as some call it.... otherwise any air pockets that have formed wont be able to escape - and then when you *move on* to your next stage of decorating the cake - and add any extra weight to the cake - your going to get air pockets....

I notice it happening more after I move the cake.

Yes, thats to be expected.... everytime you move the cake - the filling and layers of cake will also move - and again, the air is going to try and escape...

It's so disappointing to go through all the work just to have it ruined by the bulge!

Slow down your filling and decorating process.... dont rush it.

If you want a cake to look smooth - buldge free - then there are a few easy steps to follow.

Fill the layers of your cake.

When done - place a sheet of baking paper on top of the cake

Place a large heavy bread board on top of the cake and then a hevy large book.

This will ensure that all the excess air is pushed out ...plus you will get a smooth flat top to your cake.

6 years ago i went and bought some out of stock large tiles from a bathroom shop - for about 3.00

I have varying sizes - depending on what size cake i am filling.

I place one of them on top of my cakes - and allow the cake to settle at least for 5 hours - if it's mud cakes i am working on - i leave them to settle overnight.

Many here is Australia have been using heavy tiles for years.... they are easy to store - easy to clean - and for the size of them, the weight is just right.

Please help! Hope i have - again, its a step by step procedure - not a slap it on and move on procedure.

Bluehue

Thank you. I guess I just wasn't really understanding so I did not think the other threads applied to my problem. Obviously wrong there! I appreciate you taking the time to explain it to me so that I understand. :)