Are There Alternatives to a Traditional Wedding Cake?

Whether you’re searching for something out of the norm or simply don’t enjoy cake, there are numerous alternatives to serving the traditional wedding cake.

Cupcakes. Cupcakes are an ideal option because they allow you to retain the elements of different cake flavors and frostings while keeping costs low. Cupcakes look beautiful displayed on a lavish cupcake tree stand. Alternatively, you can ask your cake designer to “build” the cupcakes so they resemble the shape of an actual cake.

Individual Mini Cakes. Instead of one huge cake, many couples are opting for smaller cakes to be used as centerpieces for each table. These miniature wedding cakes allow you to choose from a range of designs, flavors, and styles, which is especially useful for brides seeking variety. However, this option can be expensive, especially if each cake is intricately decorated.

Dessert Bar. You can choose to forgo cake altogether and set up a dessert bar offering a medley of your favorite sweets. Miniature fruit tarts, rich mousse cups, warm chocolate chip cookies, and petit fours are just a few of the decadent desserts you can present to your guests.

Croquembouche. This traditional French wedding dessert is made from light pastry buns filled with cream. The buns are arranged in a high cone shape and bound with caramel. For a festive wedding look, decorate them with chocolate, flowers, or ribbons.

Stacked Cannoli. Cannoli is a traditional Sicilian pastry made of crunchy, fried, tube-shaped dough. The dough is filled with sweetened ricotta cheese flavored with vanilla, chocolate, pistachio, or Marsala. Candied orange peel is usually added but can be replaced with chocolate chips. For an impressive presentation, stack the cannoli on a towering pedestal.

> See photos of wedding cakes