WEDDING

14 Classic Wedding Cake Alternatives 

wedding cake alternatives

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A classic wedding cake will never go out of style, but you may also break the tradition to make your wedding day more memorable and unique. Over the years, different dessert options have been popular alternatives to the classic wedding cake. If you’re not a fan of the standard-tier cakes, we’ve rounded up the sweetest cake alternatives to make your big day extra-special.

1. Cupcakes

cupcakes for wedding

Want a mini version that won’t ruin the design of the dessert by cutting it? Go for delicate cupcakes! You can arrange them any way you want and they’re perfect for special occasions since they’re easy to eat without utensils and without making a mess. You can have them in different designs and flavors to make things all the more interesting. Cupcakes can also be assembled on a cake tower for a beautiful presentation.

2. Cake Pops

wedding cake pops

Looking for a more convenient and easy-to-make treat? Cake pops are not only less messy to eat but also a good choice for those who don’t want to indulge in cakes yet would love to try it for a bite. This mini cake, visually similar to lollipops, is a great addition to the dessert table as you can make it with different designs to match the wedding motif. Cake pops coated with colorful icing and toppings can also be arranged in a bouquet-inspired shape.

3. Brownies

fudge brownies

Brownies can be topped with nuts, chocolate chips, marshmallows, or any other toppings you would like to add. To add a more personal, homely touch, you can bake them yourself which makes them an excellent, cost-effective option. Brownies don’t just have a soft and chewy texture, but the overall chocolatey taste will also melt in your mouth.

4. Pancakes

pancakes

Want to try a breakfast alternative instead of the traditional wedding cake? Have a stack of pancakes in different sizes and top them up with berries, whipped cream, and any other toppings you like and the couple can pour the syrup. You can also provide several topping and syrup options to accommodate your guests’ taste preferences.

5. Crepes

wedding crepes

The layers of this ultra-thin French pancake are easy to make with different flavors, ranging from sweet syrups to savory fillings. Served rolled, folded, or even as a cake, crepes are a perfect treat for those who want to try a cake-inspired wedding centerpiece with a different texture.

6. Waffles

waffles and strawberries

Waffles are another great cake alternative and also a breakfast or snack treat. They’re a unique choice for a brunch wedding treat as well. If you love whipped cream, it can be a perfect alternative to sugary frostings. Stack the Belgian waffles like cake layers, and top them off with your usual breakfast toppings! Waffles can be made on the spot with the prepared ingredients, so you can serve them fresh and hot. 

7. Tiramisu

a plate of tiramisu

You can’t stop a coffee-lover from craving it on their special day! Layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, tiramisu is a perfect treat for those who love the aroma and taste of coffee in their dessert. This Italian dessert can “cheer you up” during a wedding celebration – like the literal meaning of the name “tiramisu.”

8. Macarons

colored macaroons

If you’re looking for a crunchy treat with soft filling, you can try having a tower of pastel-coloured macarons as an alternative highlight in your wedding reception. With the bright colors, they can serve as a sweet remembrance of the celebration. The balance of nutty and sugary taste of macarons can be a perfect treat for those who love sweets.

9. Cookies

cookies for wedding

Do you enjoy cookies over soft bread and cakes? Why not have a cookie tower to share with your guests on your special day? Freshly-baked cookies may remind you of the nostalgic childhood you have in your home or even the memory of visiting your local bakery! While most store-bought cookies are crunchy, you may opt for soft and chewy cookies as an alternative to the standard wedding cake.

10. Donuts

doughnuts for weddings

Displaying donuts in a cake-inspired pyramid shape can be a nice alternative to classic cakes, but with a twist! You can decorate the donuts according to your wedding theme or your preference of flavors. There are different types of this sweet treat, and you may want to serve donuts in various toppings and fillings to enjoy on your big day.

11. Cheesecakes

delicious cheesecake

Maybe you enjoy cream cheese as an addition to your milk tea or dessert. You can also have it as part of your wedding centerpiece! Cheesecakes are a popular dessert that can be topped with ingredients of your liking such as chocolates, berries, or sugar-based toppings for example. Just add some floral art to make it more presentable.

12. Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

ice cream sandwich cake

Are you going to a summer wedding? Then an ice cream sandwich cake would be a sweet and refreshing alternative to the traditional wedding cake! Incorporate your favorite ice cream into a cake, and you’ll keep everyone cool amidst the scorching heat. You can also add various flavors from your favorite parlor or brand.

13. Pies

pies for weddings

The aroma of freshly-baked pies could add a feels-like-home vibe on your special day. If you and your partner have different preferences in flavors, or you can’t just pick one in particular, you can serve up several pie choices to satisfy all palates. Some pies can be assembled with fruits and sweet syrups, while others can be savory, like a chicken and veggie combination.

14. Cheese Wheels

types of cheese

Not a sweet tooth person and want something savory instead? Stack up a few cheese wheels on your wedding day instead. There are various choices of cheese depending on your liking. It can be an appetizer, or an additional flavor to the snacks and food served to the guests. You can also keep the actual colors and forms of cheese to make the cake-inspired centerpiece more visually appealing.

Wrapping Up

Wedding cakes are usually designed with various bits and pieces and decorations to match the overall theme. Instead of settling for a classic cake, why not mix things up and make your day unique? A reception centerpiece should not only be a display to look at, but also a treat to enjoy for everyone. After all, it’s your special day, so you should be able to celebrate it just the way you want, with the cake or cake alternative you like.