Not a fan of traditional cakes – or just don’t want to spend a ton of money on something that might not even get eaten?! Don’t be afraid to deviate from the traditional wedding cake – with so many options out there right now, here are 11 fantastic alternatives to a wedding cake.
The stacked wedding cake has its origins in a medieval tradition where individual cakes were stacked as high as possible and the bride and groom were asked to kiss over them. A successful kiss — without the cakes falling — meant a happy marriage.
11 brilliant alternatives to a wedding cake
Nowadays, with weddings more expensive than ever and many couples moving away from tradition, finding an alternative to a traditional wedding cake is becoming increasingly popular.
So we spoke to wedding experts from Lake District Country House Hotels, who shared their nine favorite alternatives to a traditional wedding cake.
cheese wheel
A charcuterie board is one of the loveliest celebrations for those who prefer savory to sweet, and is particularly appropriate for a fall or winter wedding.
If you still want the images of a tiered cake, layer some cheese loaves and add complexity to the design by hanging waterfalls of grapes over the edges. A cheese assortment will keep all your guests happy – you could even consider a cheese fondue fountain!
macaroon tower
This is a great option for any guest to enjoy a sweet treat. Unlike with a cake, guests do not have to fiddle with the cut or the plates, but can simply serve themselves.
Another brilliant element of this option is how customizable it can be. Each layer could be a different shade of pastel to keep a minimalist look – or if your style is more daring, vibrant and bright colors like fuchsia and purple are great options.
Crepe Stack
This stack of crepes looks fabulous and is guaranteed to taste great when served with savory or sweet fillings, from cheese and mushrooms to strawberries and syrup – so there’s something for everyone.
Layer different sized crepes to create the tiered look – and instead of cutting the cake with your partner, you could both pour golden syrup up the tower!
Croquembouche Tower
What is a croquem bouche? This delicious dessert is made from puff pastry filled with cream and covered in caramel – even if your guests can’t pronounce the name, they’re sure to enjoy it!
If you are looking for alternatives to a wedding cake, this is a great option as it can easily be decorated with fluffy cotton candy or different sauces to suit your taste.
cookie stand
Who doesn’t love a cookie? In fact, the average Brit eats 11 biscuits every week, so a biscuit tower instead of the traditional wedding cake will no doubt be a hit with your guests.
Decorate them with both you and your partner’s initials in delicate icing, or leave a classic chocolate chip plain.
champagne tower
If sweet treats aren’t your thing at all, a champagne tower is a hugely fun option that also looks gorgeous with shimmering liquid pouring into the crystal glasses.
Champagne tower kits are easy to rent and set up for an exciting and vibrant alternative to a wedding cake.
A donut wall
This is a flavorful — and very Instagrammable — option for your special day. A donut wall has become very popular lately and is a perfect choice for keeping kids entertained at your wedding and also offers several customizable options.
Fresh Fruit Waterfall
If you’re a health fanatic, a giant fruit display is a fun — and healthy — way for your guests to enjoy something sweet after dinner.
Display them in a large bowl or cascade on a tiered stand between a flower arrangement; The bold colors would look particularly beautiful against the backdrop of a summer wedding.
Brownie Stack
Is there anything better than a stack of chocolate brownies? We don’t think so – and for your wedding, why not personalize them with the couple’s initials in icing, offer different flavors of brownie, or stack them alongside macaroons for the ultimate tower?
This is also the perfect choice if you want to make sure your wedding cake can be eaten by everyone by accommodating different diets as you could easily offer dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan versions.
Naked Cakes
Not a fan of fondant icing? Instead, choose a naked cake and fill your layers with delicious buttercream or chocolate ganache.
Decorate with fresh fruit or ask your florist to supply some extra blooms for decoration. Naked cakes are perfect for both summer and rustic weddings.
Cupcake Towers
Match the cases and decorations to your wedding venue and theme and enjoy the ease and simplicity of serving a cupcake tower wedding cake. Don’t worry, you can still share this special moment by slicing a cupcake and taking the first bite.
We love the idea of serving your wedding cupcakes as part of the dessert course. This idea would also go well with other small casseroles like donuts or cake pops!
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