It’s no surprise that weddings have become somewhat less traditional in recent years and one aspect which many couples are ditching in favour of an alternative is the wedding cake. Couples no longer see the cutting of the cake as an essential photo op and use the chance to offer guests something distinctly different. Whether you love or loath the wedding cake, here are our 10 best wedding cake alternatives, definitely worth considering.

1) Cute cupcakes

Originally considered a passing fad, these little beauties show no sign of leaving any time soon, and we can’t say we’re surprised! These pint size cuties add a whimsical touch to any wedding, with the added bonus of often being cheaper than a cake. With literally hundreds of style choices available, couples are using cupcakes as a way to put a unique stamp on their wedding.

 

2) Say cheese

Just to clarify, we’re talking Brie, Cheddar, Edam etc, not the creamy Philadelphia on a crumbly biscuit kind! For the more sophisticated (or those missing a sweet tooth), a cheese cake is a fab alternative! And yes, this is literally a ‘cake’ formed using tiers of cheese… what’s not to love!? To really go to town, serve with crackers and fruit to be the hit of the party.

 

3) Marvellous Macaroons

Little baked meringue goodness, these petite French treats are available in a wealth of fancy flavours from standard chocolate and vanilla to the more exotic pistachio and lavender, so you are sure to please every guest. Again, these can be tiered to take centre stage and you can even provide little boxes for guests to take home as wedding favours. Perfect!

 

4) Decadent donuts

This one is definitely a little out there but these ring shaped sugary baked goods shouldn’t be ruled out. Available in a variety of fillings and flavours, not to mention styles and decorative finishing touches, these sticky delights will give everyone a sugar high.

 

5) Croquembouche creations

This fanciful dessert can definitely be attributed to The Great British Bake Off! The traditional French pastry consists of little fluffy, cream filled choux pastries (just like profiteroles). These bite sized beauties are then assembled into a cone shaped tower, held in place with caramel syrup. Traditionally, the tower is decorated with spun sugar ribbons but chocolate, icing sugar or caramel will also work. Yum!

 

6) Pretty pies

For autumn or winter weddings, tasty home-baked pies are a mouth-watering alternative to a wedding cake, and even better served warm! Popular wedding pie fillings include classic apple pie, sweet pecan pie or berries – your choice.

 

7) Sweet treats

A good old fashioned candy cart is still a popular choice with couples. Retro sweets always get attention and will have guests topping up their party bags all night. This is a great DIY project and can be decorated according to your theme.

8) Delicious desserts

Another potential DIY project (and one to check if your venue will allow), a dessert table offers a wealth of delicious desserts and you can even get friends and family members in on the action. Ask them to bake their signature dessert or if this isn’t an option, check in with a local bakery and discuss prices.

 

9) Takes the biscuit

Wedding cookies offer endless choices from old time favourites to a creative combination of flavours and can be made in any style or shape to suit your theme. These can even be served with tea and coffee and the start of your reception when guests are awaiting your arrival.

 

10) A multitude of meringues

Definitely one to watch out for, meringues have increased in popularity in recent years and we can see why! These delicate desserts come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including popular pavlova tiered cakes and mini meringue kisses… what’s not to love?

 

Whether you choose a classic cake or one of these alternatives, we’re sure it’ll be a hit with your guests!