Wedding Cake Traditions: Why Two Cakes?

The wedding cake is a centrepiece of the reception, with many couples opting for a multi-tiered cake to ensure there is enough for all their guests. But are two cakes better than one? Some couples opt for a second cake, known as a groom's cake, which can be used as an opportunity for the groom to express himself with a unique design. This second cake can also be saved and eaten on the couple's first anniversary, though this tradition is more common with fruit cakes that are soaked in alcohol. While there is no requirement to have two cakes, couples may choose to do so to offer a variety of flavours to their guests.

Wedding cake traditions

Wedding cakes are steeped in tradition, with many rituals dating back to Roman and Medieval times.

Cake-Cutting

The cutting of the cake is often the first activity a couple does together, symbolising the start of their marriage. In the past, the bride would cut the cake herself to symbolise the loss of her virginity, but now it is usually done as a couple.

Feeding Each Other Cake

After cutting the cake, the couple will feed each other a small bite, symbolising their commitment to providing for one another and creating a sweet life together.

Groom's Cake

The groom's cake is a separate, smaller cake that dates back to Victorian England. It often features something the groom loves, such as a sports team logo, video game characters, or a favourite beer.

Saving the Top Tier

Many couples save the top tier of their wedding cake, storing it in the freezer to eat on their first anniversary. This tradition dates back to the 19th century when couples would eat the preserved cake on the day of their first child's christening, which was usually within the first year of marriage.

Cake Charms

Wedding cake charms are baked into the cake, each with a special meaning. For example, a ring might symbolise an upcoming engagement, while a clover or a horseshoe represent good luck.

White Wedding Cake

White wedding cakes became popular in the Victorian era when white sugar was extremely expensive, so a white cake symbolised the family's wealth and social standing. The colour white also symbolises purity and the bride, who traditionally wears a white dress.

Sleeping with Cake Under Your Pillow

A 17th-century superstition says that sleeping with a slice of wedding cake under your pillow will lead you to dream of your future spouse. This tradition dates back to when fruitcakes were the typical wedding cake, which were more durable than modern cakes.

Multiple Tiers

Having a multi-tiered cake is a tradition that dates back to medieval times. In the Middle Ages, couples would kiss over the top of their wedding cake, and if they could do so without knocking it over, it was considered a positive omen for a long and successful marriage.

Cake cutting ceremonies

The wedding cake-cutting ceremony is a long-standing tradition that has evolved over time. The ritual is often considered a highlight of the wedding reception, offering beautiful photo opportunities and symbolising the couple's unity and first joint task as newlyweds. Here is a step-by-step guide to executing a flawless cake-cutting ceremony:

Preparation:

• Confirm with the couple that they have a ceremonial cake knife and server set. If not, offer to supply a basic set.
• Alert photographers to be ready to capture the special moment.
• Ensure the cake table area is cleared and ready for the couple to stand in front of it.
• Prepare or choose appropriate music to play during the ceremony, such as the couple's "first dance" song.
• Write a script to smoothly guide the couple and guests through the process.

Execution:

• Gather guests around the cake table and make the necessary announcements.
• Invite the couple to make their way to the cake table.
• Pose the couple with their cake-cutting knife for photos.
• Signal the couple to make the first slice together.
• Applaud the couple for making the first cut.
• Invite the couple to feed each other a bite of cake politely, without smashing it on each other's faces.
• Applaud the couple again after they have fed each other.
• Invite guests to enjoy cake and refreshments.

Etiquette and Execution Tips:

• Advise the couple against cake smashing, as it may come across as tacky.
• Provide small forks for feeding each other, as using fingers can appear uncouth.
• Encourage the couple to take small, dainty bites for better photos.
• Have servers bring napkins and plates to the cake table to avoid messes.
• Remind the couple to dress formally for the cake-cutting if it follows a costume change.
• Use a microphone so that guests can hear your instructions and commentary clearly.
• Play romantic or celebratory music in the background to set the mood.
• Guide the couple into cake-cutting poses, such as placing their hands atop each other's on the knife handle.
• Time the photography session appropriately, agreeing on a cue with the couple to signal when they are done with photos.
• Cue servers to prepare for cake service as soon as the couple makes the first cut, distributing small plates and forks to guests.
• Ensure photographers capture the couple feeding cake to each other before guests start enjoying their dessert.
• Thank and congratulate the couple after they complete the cake-feeding ritual.

Saving cake for the first anniversary

Saving the top tier of your wedding cake for your first anniversary is a tradition that many couples choose to uphold. However, it's important to note that the taste and texture of the cake may not be as good as you remember. Here are some tips to help you save your wedding cake for your first anniversary:

• Remove large decorations: Take off any large cake toppers, sugar flowers, or other decorations that may get damaged or crushed during freezing. Smaller details can usually stay on the cake.
• Transfer the cake: If your cake is on cardboard, move it to a plastic or foil-covered board. Cardboard can affect the taste of your cake over time.
• Pre-freeze the cake: Place the cake in the freezer, unwrapped, for about an hour to let the frosting firm up. This will make it easier to wrap without creating a sticky mess.
• Wrap the cake: Remove the cake from the freezer and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Aim for at least five layers to prevent freezer odours and burn from penetrating. Do not use aluminium foil for the base layers as it will stick to your frosting.
• Add a final layer: After wrapping with plastic, add a final layer of aluminium foil for extra protection.
• Store in a container: Place your wrapped cake in a large plastic container and store it in your freezer.
• Have a backup plan: Consider ordering a fresh, small cake in your wedding cake flavour from a local baker to enjoy on your first anniversary. This way, you can still enjoy the tradition without risking stale or dry cake.

It's important to note that while some people have successfully frozen their wedding cakes and enjoyed them a year later, others have found it to be a disappointing experience. Ultimately, the decision to save your wedding cake for your first anniversary is a personal choice. If you decide to give it a try, be sure to follow the proper steps for freezing and storing your cake to give it the best chance of tasting delicious on your special day.

Alternative desserts

While some couples opt for a traditional wedding cake, others choose to offer alternative desserts to their guests. This can be a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding and cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for alternative desserts that you can serve at your wedding:

Macaroons/Macarons

Colourful and sophisticated, macaroons/macarons are a popular choice for couples looking for an alternative to a traditional wedding cake. They can be displayed beautifully on a dessert table and offer a variety of flavours and colours for guests to choose from.

Cupcakes

Cupcakes are a fun and versatile alternative to a wedding cake. They can be decorated to fit the theme of your wedding and offer a variety of flavours. Cupcakes are also a great option if you still want to have a tiered cake display, as they can be arranged to create a similar effect.

Cannolis

Cannolis are a delicious Italian treat that can be filled with a variety of flavours. They add a sense of "professional catering" to your wedding and can be arranged in fun ways.

Doughnuts

Who doesn't love a good doughnut? Doughnuts are a versatile dessert that can be customised to fit your wedding colours and flavours. They can be arranged in a variety of ways, such as a doughnut wall or a doughnut bar, and can even be made into a tiered display similar to a traditional wedding cake.

Cheesecake/Cheese Cakes

Cheesecake is a classic and comforting dessert that can be elevated for your wedding. A tiered cheesecake can be decorated with fresh fruit and flowers, or left plain to showcase the gorgeous layer of graham cracker crust. For a savoury option, a "cheese cake" made from stacked wheels of cheese can be decorated with fresh fruit and is a popular choice for couples looking for a savory alternative.

Crepe Cakes

Crepe cakes are a unique alternative to a traditional wedding cake. These paper-thin French pancakes can be stacked high with whipped cream or fruit preserves between each layer. They can be decorated with powdered sugar, fresh flowers, or fruit for a elegant and rustic look.

Ice Cream Cake

An ice cream cake is a great alternative for couples looking for a non-traditional option that still looks like a traditional cake. It can be tiered, frosted, and decorated with crushed cookies between layers for a textural contrast.

Pie

Pie is a perfect alternative for couples who don't like cake or are looking for a more personalised dessert option. Whether you choose a traditional pie flavour like apple or pumpkin, or get creative with a unique filling, pie is a sure way to please your guests.

Cake Pops

Cake pops are a fun and bite-sized alternative to a traditional wedding cake. They offer a variety of flavour options and are a great way to avoid the sometimes awkward cake-cutting moment.

S'mores

S'mores are a fun and interactive dessert option for your wedding, especially for fall and winter weddings. Guests can gather around a bonfire and make their own s'mores, adding a cosy and festive atmosphere to your celebration.

Cookies

Cookies are a classic and comforting dessert option that can be customised to fit your taste. From chocolate chip to French macarons, cookies can be displayed beautifully on a tiered serving platter or arranged in a unique conical shape.

Brownies

Brownies are a rich and indulgent dessert option that can be served on their own or as part of a dessert bar. They can be customised with different mix-ins and toppings to suit your taste.

Other Ideas

• Crepes
• Croquembouche (a tower of cream puffs)
• Rice Krispies treats
• Cinnamon rolls
• Millefoglie cake (a traditional Italian cake with layers of puff pastry and diplomat cream)
• Nordic Kransekake (a Scandinavian almond cookie cake)
• Oreo stacks
• Pancakes or waffles
• Bundt cakes
• Sfogliatelle cake (a flaky pastry filled with ricotta custard)
• Chocolate-covered strawberries
• Fruit tarts
• Mini cheesecakes
• Gooey butter cake

Cake portion sizes

It is not customary to have two cakes at a wedding, but it is not uncommon either. Some couples choose to have a second cake to represent the groom's interests or as an additional dessert option for their guests.

Now, for the cake portion sizes:

When planning a wedding cake, it is essential to consider the number of guests and the desired cake slice size. The standard size of a slice of wedding cake is smaller than that of a party cake slice. A wedding cake slice is typically 4 inches tall, 1 inch wide, and 2 inches long, while a party cake slice is usually 1.5 inches wide.

The number of servings per cake tier varies depending on the diameter of the tier. Here are the estimated number of servings for different sizes of round and square cakes:

Round Cakes:

• 6-inch cake: 12 servings
• 8-inch cake: 24 servings
• 10-inch cake: 38 servings
• 12-inch cake: 56 servings
• 14-inch cake: 78 servings
• 16-inch cake: 100 servings

Square Cakes:

• 6-inch cake: 18 servings
• 8-inch cake: 32 servings
• 10-inch cake: 50 servings
• 12-inch cake: 72 servings
• 14-inch cake: 98 servings
• 16-inch cake: 128 servings

It is worth noting that the shape of the cake also affects the number of servings. For example, a square 8-inch cake will yield more servings than a round 8-inch cake.

Additionally, the height of the cake layers and the amount of filling or buttercream between each layer can impact the overall height of the cake and, consequently, the number of servings.

When planning a wedding, it is recommended to estimate that 75% to 85% of guests will enjoy a piece of cake. This estimation can help determine the appropriate cake size and the number of tiers needed.

Some couples choose to offer their guests different cake flavours, with the recommendation being to offer at least two flavours for weddings with 100 guests or fewer and three flavours for weddings with 120-150 guests.

In summary, determining the right cake portion sizes for a wedding involves considering the number of guests, the desired slice size, the shape and size of the cake tiers, and the desired number of flavours. By taking these factors into account, couples can ensure they have enough delicious dessert options for their special day.

Frequently asked questions