In the past, a wedding cake was an indispensable element on the wedding list. Your mother would likely express her disapproval if there was no ceremonial cutting of the cake. However, times have evolved, and those with a sweet tooth but not fond of traditional cakes can rejoice. There’s an abundance of scrumptious alternatives to satisfy various tastes and surprise your guests.
Today, we’re exploring 10 of our top picks for non-traditional wedding sweet treats: from indulgent doughnuts and delicate macarons to retro pies and sophisticated cheese cakes. This diverse selection caters to all preferences and offers a delightful twist on the classic cake.
10 Wedding Cake Alternatives
The visual feast that accompanies this article is a testament to the sweet and indulgent world of donuts. Two mouthwatering images, captured by Salt Media and showcasing the delectable offerings from KH Desserts and The Flour Pot respectively, are perfectly complemented by Leah Kathryn Photo’s stunning snapshot. These vibrant visuals transport us to a realm where our senses come alive, tantalizing our taste buds and leaving us yearning for that next bite.
Wedding Doughnuts
For couples looking to deviate from the traditional wedding cake, a creative and cost-effective alternative is to opt for wedding donuts. With an array of fillings and presentation options, this sweet treat can be just as impressive and delightful as its cake counterpart. Several companies specialize in providing custom wedding donut services, including Offbeat Donut and The Rolling Donut, which offer beautifully crafted and decadent treats.
Alternatively, Krispy Kreme provides individual boxed donuts for guests to enjoy. Whether you’re going for a whimsical or elegant vibe, wedding donuts can be the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and delight your guests.
Wedding Macarons
While traditional wedding cakes may be a staple of the big day, there’s no reason why macarons can’t take center stage. These delicate, romantic treats offer a unique and feminine alternative to the classic cake. But when it comes to selecting your perfect macaron, be sure to do your research and opt for reputable confectioners like Ladurée or one of our trusted recommendations.
Wedding Cupcakes
The wedding cupcake is always a crowd-pleaser, serving not only as a delightful treat but also as an excellent option for edible wedding favors. When it comes to ordering these sweet treats, the general rule of thumb is to have 1.5 full-size cupcakes per guest. If there are any leftovers, they’re easily packaged and sent home with your guests or enjoyed as a late-night snack.
The versatility of the wedding cupcake makes it an attractive choice for couples looking to make their special day even more memorable.
Wedding Meringues & Pavlovas
Pavlova and meringue wedding cakes are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, offering an attractive alternative to traditional wedding fare. This retro dessert has won over a new generation with its luscious texture and versatility, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking to deviate from the conventional wedding cake while still providing a sweet indulgence for their guests.
The rise of pavlova and meringue cakes is particularly appealing to those who prefer a more modern take on dessert, sans the traditional tiered structure. With their light-as-air texture and decadent toppings, these treats are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Wedding Cookies & Biscuits
When it comes to wedding cookies and biscuits, the possibilities are truly endless. You can opt for whimsical and creative designs, or go for a more traditional approach with classic flavors and textures. The best part? These sweet treats can be tailored to fit your unique theme, venue, or personal style, making them just as stunning as a show-stopping wedding cake on display.
From the rich aroma of freshly baked biscuits to the colorful whimsy of custom cookies, every option is designed to delight both you and your guests.
Wedding Cheese Cakes & Cheese Boards
For a unique and savory twist on traditional wedding desserts, tiered wedding cheese cakes can be deconstructed and repurposed as an after-dinner cheese board or alternative to the classic cake. If you’re interested in learning how to craft your own show-stopping wedding cheese cake, we have a comprehensive guide filled with expert tips and instructions at your disposal.
Wedding Pies
When it comes to sweet treats that aren’t traditional wedding cake, pie is a fantastic option. Not only can you slice it up and serve it to your guests in bite-sized portions, but the variety of flavors and fillings means there’s something for everyone. From classic apple pie to more unusual options like Earl Grey or pecan, there are plenty of delicious choices to consider.
And if you really want to go all out, why not build a brownie tower or create a show-stopping dessert bar with an assortment of pies? Your guests will be impressed and won’t even miss the wedding cake. Plus, many caterers can help you make this vision a reality.
Traybake Towers
When it comes to traybake towers, you get the best of both worlds – a delicious treat that’s also budget-friendly. Why settle for just one type of cake when you can serve up a variety of flavors? From brownies to rocky road, lemon drizzle to raspberry sponge squares, the options are endless. And the best part? Traybake towers can be a relatively simple yet impressive DIY project for any wedding, as long as you focus on great signage and styling.
Alternatively, many skilled bakers now offer this service, taking the hassle out of your hands.
