Quick Answer
✅ Yes. TSA allows cake in both carry-on and checked bags.
✈️ Whole cakes, slices, cupcakes, and pastries are fine as solid foods.
⚠️ Frostings, creams, or sauces may be treated as liquids/gels if excessive.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Cake, cupcakes, muffins, and pastries are allowed as solid foods.
- TSA does not restrict quantity.
- Frosting, cream fillings, or sauces inside baked goods are generally permitted, but separate containers of frosting must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule (≤ 3.4 oz).
- Checked luggage:
- Cakes are allowed but may be damaged during transport. Pack in a sturdy container.
- Specialty cakes (wedding/birthday):
- Allowed, but TSA may require additional screening if frosting or decorations look unusual.
- International flights:
- Customs may restrict cakes with dairy, eggs, or fruit. Commercially packaged cakes may pass if declared.
TSA Cake Rules Summary
| Cake Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Cake slices / cupcakes | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Whole cake (frosted) | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Extra frosting > 3.4 oz | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Commercial packaged cake | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Frosting confusion: A cake covered in frosting is fine, but frosting in a tub > 3.4 oz isn’t.
- ✈️ Mess risk: Pack cakes in firm boxes or carriers to avoid smearing.
- ✈️ Customs restrictions: Dairy, fruit, or meat-based cakes (like cheesecakes, fruitcakes) may be confiscated abroad.
- ✈️ Security delays: Unusual cakes (tall layers, decorations) may be screened more closely.