The Wedding Cake Conundrum: Who Eats It?

Whether or not wedding guests eat the wedding cake is a hotly debated topic. Some people argue that wedding cake is usually dry and flavourless, and not worth the calories. Others argue that cake is an important part of a wedding and that guests will always eat it. There are also those who say that it depends on the type of cake and how it is served. For example, if the cake is served at the tables, then there should be enough for everyone. However, if it is self-serve, then fewer people may eat it. Ultimately, it is up to the couple to decide whether or not to have a wedding cake, and how much to order.

Whether or not guests eat the wedding cake depends on the type of cake and the guest's age

Whether or not guests eat the wedding cake depends on several factors, including the type of cake served and the age of the guests. While some people always look forward to indulging in a slice of wedding cake, others may be less inclined to partake, especially if they are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions.

In terms of cake type, traditional wedding cakes with fondant or dry, flavourless cake tend to be less popular among guests. Many people prefer cakes with buttercream frosting or unique and delicious flavours. Serving a variety of desserts in addition to the wedding cake, such as cupcakes, cookies, or a candy bar, may also reduce the likelihood of guests eating the wedding cake.

Age can also play a role in whether or not guests choose to eat wedding cake. Older guests may be more likely to indulge in a slice of cake, while younger guests, particularly those who are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions, may opt for alternative dessert options or no dessert at all.

To ensure that guests eat the wedding cake, it is essential to consider their preferences and offer a variety of flavours and dessert options. It is also crucial to properly announce and serve the cake, as some guests may miss out on it if it is not properly presented or served at the appropriate time.

Some people prefer alternative desserts like cupcakes, pies, cookies, or ice cream

Wedding cake is the most common dessert option for weddings. However, it is not the only option. Many couples are opting for alternative desserts like cupcakes, pies, cookies, or ice cream. These options offer a unique and creative way to end the event on a sweet note.

Cupcakes, for instance, are a popular choice as they are still cake with icing but offer more variety in flavours and are often a cheaper alternative. They are also a good option for guests with dietary restrictions as it is easier to make a few cupcakes gluten-free or vegan than an entire cake. Cupcakes can be displayed creatively, such as in a build-your-own cupcake bar where guests can choose their own icing, filling, and toppings.

Pies are another great alternative, especially for autumn weddings. They can be served in a variety of flavours, such as pumpkin maple or apple, and can be made more elegant by being served in mason jars. Mini pies are also a good option for individual servings.

Cookies are a simple yet effective choice for a wedding dessert. They can be served with milk and can be offered in a variety of flavours to keep the dessert table interesting. Cookies can also be made more elegant by using a custom stand to display them.

Ice cream is a fun idea, especially for summer weddings. It is easy, affordable, and completely customisable, with a variety of flavours and toppings to choose from. It can be served from an ice cream truck, bringing a sense of nostalgia to the event, or as an ice cream sundae bar where guests can create their own sundaes.

These alternative dessert options allow couples to showcase their creativity and offer guests a unique and memorable experience. They are a great way to end the wedding on a sweet note and keep guests satisfied.

Wedding cake is often served late, after guests have already hit the dance floor, so some people don't want to leave to eat it

Wedding cake is traditionally served after the main course, just before the dancing begins. However, some couples choose to cut the cake earlier in the evening, as a signal to older guests that they are welcome to leave.

As the evening progresses and guests hit the dance floor, some may not want to interrupt their fun to eat a slice of cake. This is especially true if the cake is served at the table, as guests who are already up and about may not want to return to their seats to eat. If the cake is self-serve, guests may be more inclined to help themselves as they continue to dance and socialise.

To avoid this issue, some couples opt for alternative desserts such as cupcakes, cookies, or a doughnut board. These can be easier to eat while standing and can be placed in various locations around the venue, making them more accessible to guests who are already on the dance floor. Others choose to serve the cake earlier in the evening, alongside the main course, or as a dessert course before the dancing begins.

Some couples also provide to-go boxes so that guests can take a slice of cake home with them, especially if they are too full to eat it at the wedding or if they don't want to leave the dance floor.

Wedding cake is a signal that guests can leave, so older guests are more likely to eat it

The wedding cake is a significant detail of the big day. It has its own moment at the reception, and the cutting of the cake is often the last "official" event of the evening. While it used to be the very last moment of the reception, today it usually takes place earlier, towards the end of dinner and just before dancing begins. This shift in timing serves as a signal to older guests that they are welcome to depart whenever they are ready and that they won't miss any of the formalities if they choose to leave.

The cake-cutting ceremony is a well-known tradition that most couples choose to include in their wedding reception. It is an opportunity for the couple to be the centre of attention and share a sweet and sentimental moment that their guests look forward to. While the couple gets the first bite of the wedding cake, it is also customary to serve the cake to the guests.

However, it is worth noting that not all guests may choose to eat the wedding cake. Some may be too full from the cocktail hour and dinner, while others may have dietary restrictions or preferences that make them less inclined to indulge. In recent years, there has also been a trend towards alternative desserts, such as cupcakes, pies, cookies, or ice cream, which can be a refreshing change from the traditional wedding cake.

When planning a wedding, it is essential to consider the preferences of your guests and decide whether to offer a variety of dessert options or focus solely on the wedding cake. If you opt for the latter, it is advisable to choose a flavour that will appeal to a wide range of tastes and encourage your guests to partake.

Overall, the wedding cake remains a beloved tradition, and its presence at the reception continues to be a signal to guests, especially older ones, that the evening is drawing to a close, and they are welcome to depart at their convenience.

Some people don't like the taste of wedding cake, especially if it's dry or covered in fondant

It's an unfortunate truth that a lot of wedding cakes don't taste great. Many people dislike the taste of wedding cake, especially when it's dry or covered in fondant. Fondant, a tasteless, plastic-like shell, is often used to cover wedding cakes. It not only affects the taste but also gives the cake a dated look, screaming 1998 rather than 2023.

Wedding cakes often prioritise structural soundness and visual appeal over taste. This can result in a dry cake with too much stiff icing, sacrificing flavour and texture for a flawless surface and perfectly square edges. The cake may be dry and flavourless, with a thick, overly sweet, or greasy frosting.

Fondant-covered cakes and those with an excessive amount of icing are not only unappealing to the taste buds but can also be unattractive to the eye. Some people may be put off by the appearance of a cake that is overly decorated or has an outdated design.

Additionally, the timing of cake cutting and serving can affect how many guests actually eat the cake. If the cake is cut and served too late, guests may be too busy dancing, socialising, or too full from dinner and drinks to want a slice.

To ensure your wedding cake is a hit, consider opting for a classic buttercream frosting for a homey, messy vibe. Exposed layer, frosting-less cakes are also a trendy choice for their rustic, elegant appeal. If you want to decorate your cake, use edible items that complement the flavours already in the cake, such as fresh fruit, edible flowers, or herbs like basil and mint.

Another option is to have a small, beautifully decorated cake for presentation and a sheet cake in the same flavour for serving. This way, you can have a stunning cake for photos without sacrificing taste.

Finally, don't forget to consider the practicalities, such as refrigeration, especially for outdoor weddings, to avoid a melted mess.

Frequently asked questions