Anything goes at weddings these days when it comes to cakes and after having loads of time to think about it, there is plenty of opportunity for creativity. Go with what your taste buds demand, whether that be traditional fruit cake, chocolate cake, carrot cake, Madeira cake, or Baileys cheesecake.
Most bakers will offer to make different types of cake for the different tiers so everyone can pick a slice of cake that they like.
Of course it doesn't have to be cake shaped. There are plenty of sweet treat alternatives out there. Think bigger and better, and something a little more fun. Cupcakes are always popular but what about a doughnut stand where guests can choose their own toppings, or maybe a cookies and milk display.
If you're looking to save money and keep a quirky element you could arrange a dessert table. Neighbours, family, and friends are always looking to help out - so why not ask a few to make some desserts. Perhaps some lemon drizzle cake, a few pavlovas, or apple crumbles? Ask your venue for a nice display table so guests can have a look and then get someone to slice them before letting guests help themselves, one table at a time. The venue should be able to supply cream, custard, and other sauces to accompany the desserts.
Maybe you would prefer something a little savoury. A lot of couples are ordering cheese cakes for their wedding, and we are not talking cream cheese with a biscuit base. These are wheels of delicious cheese, all different sizes, with bunches of grapes, apples, pears, and maybe some fresh home baked bread, crackers, and nuts in a towering display. Cheese is a great alternative, especially for foodies who are looking for something a little quirky. This display can look especially attractive during a late winter or spring wedding.
Wedding cakes do not have to be the traditional three tiers these days. Just order what you think you may need, or what you can afford.
Traditionally the cake was a fertility symbol. Ancient Romans would bake a cake made of wheat or barley and break it over the bride's head as a symbol of her fertility. It became tradition to pile up several small cakes, one on top of the other, as high as they could, and the bride and groom would kiss over the tower and try not to knock it down. If they were successful, it meant a lifetime of prosperity.
The cutting of the cake takes place towards the end of the reception or, for convenience, immediately after the main course, so that it can be taken away and cut up to be served with tea or coffee at the end of the meal. The best man announces this and the bride and groom stand side by side behind the cake, with the bride holding the knife in her right hand. The groom then places his right hand over hers and they cut the cake together. Only a token cut is required, and if the icing is very hard, a cut can be made beforehand where it is not noticeable. This will ensure that it will cut easily during the actual ceremony.
