Choosing The Perfect Wedding Cake: Size Guide

Choosing the right size of wedding cake is a tricky task. The cake is an important part of the wedding, serving as a piece of décor, a conversation starter, and a delicious treat for your guests. The first step is to consider your guest list and decide on the number of servings you will need. You can estimate the number of servings by assuming that 75 to 85 percent of your guests will want a slice of cake. From there, you can decide if you want to have enough cake to feed every guest or if you'd prefer to have leftovers. The size of the cake slices is another factor to consider, with standard wedding cake servings ranging from 1-inch by 2-inch to larger party-size slices of 1.5-inches by 2-inches.

The number of tiers on your wedding cake will also impact the overall size and cost. Cakes with multiple tiers are traditionally more popular, with options to add extra tiers using fake cake made from styrofoam or by using sheet cakes. Ultimately, the size of your wedding cake will depend on a combination of factors, including your guest list, desired servings, cake size, and number of tiers.

Guest list

The first step in choosing the size of your wedding cake is to consider your guest list. Not all guests will want a slice of cake, but some may wish for seconds or to taste multiple flavours. A good rule of thumb is to estimate that 75% to 85% of your guests will want a slice of cake. From there, you can decide if you want to have enough cake for every guest or if you'd like to have leftovers.

If you're planning to have other desserts, such as cookies, brownies, cupcakes, or candy, you may need less cake. In this case, you can probably order about 50% cake and fill in the rest with other dessert options.

Another factor to consider is whether you want to save the top tier of your wedding cake. This is a tradition that allows couples to relive their wedding day on their first anniversary. If you plan to do this, be sure to account for it when determining the size of your cake. Simply start your calculations with the next size down, often an 8-inch cake tier.

• Standard wedding cake servings are 1-inch by 2-inch slices, while a larger party-size slice is 1.5-inches by 2-inches.
• Many bakers offer wedding cake tiers that are 4-inches or 5-inches tall, which should be factored into sizing calculations.
• Round wedding cakes typically provide fewer slices than square cakes. For example, a 6-inch round cake serves 12 guests, while a 6-inch square cake serves 18 guests.
• If you're having a self-serve cake station, you may need to order more cake than if you're serving cake with dinner or as a dessert course.
• You can also consider having a "fake cake" layer made from styrofoam to add height and grandeur to your cake without increasing the cost.
• For large guest lists, consider having a sheet cake in addition to your main wedding cake. Sheet cakes are single-layer, non-decorated cakes that can be stored in your venue's kitchen and served alongside your main cake to ensure there's enough for everyone.

Cake shape

The shape of your wedding cake is an important consideration when planning your wedding. While taste and aesthetics are fun parts of the decision-making process, the shape and size of your cake will determine how many portions you can get from it.

Round and square cakes are the most common shapes for wedding cakes, with round cakes being the traditional choice. Round cakes typically come in sizes of 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 inches, and the number of tiers will depend on the number of guests you plan to serve. For example, a three-tiered round wedding cake consisting of a 10-inch cake (base), an 8-inch cake (middle), and a 6-inch cake (top) would provide 74 servings. Square cakes of the same sizes will provide more servings than round cakes, with a 16-inch square cake serving up to 128 guests.

If you're looking for something a little different, double-barreled cakes are a popular choice at the moment. These cakes have two layers of the same size stacked on top of each other, creating the effect of a single, tall tier. This style can be a great option if you want to serve more guests while still maintaining the look of a smaller cake.

Ultimately, the shape of your wedding cake will depend on the number of guests you need to serve, the style you want to achieve, and your budget. Consult with your baker to determine the best shape and size to suit your needs.

Additional desserts

When it comes to choosing additional desserts for your wedding, the most important factors to consider are your personal preferences and your wedding theme.

If you're having a beachside wedding, for example, you might want to opt for desserts with tropical elements, such as key lime pie or mango coconut dessert shooters. For a summer wedding, consider using seasonal ingredients, like a bold strawberry tart or fresh fruit skewers.

Dessert Shooters

Also known as dessert shots or mini desserts, these are small, individual portions of sweet treats served in shot glasses or other small containers. They allow your guests to sample multiple desserts without committing to a full-sized portion. Popular options include chocolate truffle, strawberry shortcake, lemon blueberry, banana pretzel, and Valencia orange.

Petite Desserts

Another form of bite-sized desserts that can be passed around or displayed creatively. They offer a variety of flavors without the need for a full-sized dessert. Options include miniature chocolate pecan pies, chocolate truffles, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and chocolate cups filled with raspberry and chocolate mousse.

Cupcakes

A popular and stylish alternative to traditional wedding cakes, cupcakes offer versatility in flavors, designs, and presentations. You can top them with edible monograms featuring the couple's initials, arrange them in a tower with a small cake on top for a traditional cake-cutting moment, or top them with edible flowers for a garden or spring wedding.

Cheesecake

Cheesecake is a popular choice for weddings due to its elegance, versatility, and ability to transcend seasons. You can work with a caterer to customize the flavor, incorporating options like classic New York-style, raspberry swirl, chocolate, or salted caramel.

Cake Pops

Also known as cake lollipops, these bite-sized treats combine the goodness of cake with the convenience of a lollipop. They are made by mixing crumbled cake with frosting, forming them into small balls, and inserting a stick. They are then typically coated in chocolate or candy melts and decorated with various toppings.

Pies and Tarts

Miniature pies and tarts provide individual servings, eliminating the need for slicing and making it convenient for guests. They can be presented in creative ways, such as on tiered stands or rustic dessert tables. Popular options include strawberry tart, chocolate caramel tart, and bourbon pecan chocolate pie.

Macarons

Delicate and colorful French confections made from almond flour, sugar, and egg whites. Macarons are known for their exquisite appearance and uniform size, adding a touch of sophistication to the dessert table. They come in a wide array of colors and flavors and can be customized with monogram designs, edible metallic accents, or decorations that reflect the couple's interests.

Donuts

Donuts are a budget-friendly and easy-to-serve option that offers a diverse and appealing dessert spread. You can create a donut wall or tower as a fun piece of decor, or set up a DIY donut decoration station for your guests to get involved.

Ice Cream Sundae Bar

Creating an interactive culinary station, such as an ice cream sundae bar, is a fun way to involve your guests in assembling their own dessert. Provide a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings, such as sprinkles, nuts, fresh fruit, candies, and different sauces.

Saving the top tier

Before the Wedding

When choosing your cake, opt for a dense, hearty cake such as chocolate, hazelnut, almond, or carrot cake. These cakes tend to have a longer shelf life and will last longer in the freezer. If you have your heart set on a less durable cake, like white cake or a fresh fruit cake, you can always ask your baker for recommendations on how to extend its shelf life.

During the Wedding

If you plan to save the top tier, be mindful of where you cut the cake. Only slice pieces from the bottom tier so that the top tier remains untouched. After the cake-cutting ceremony, ask your catering staff to immediately remove the top tier, box it, and prepare it for transportation.

After the Wedding

If you are leaving for your honeymoon or moving right after the wedding, appoint a family member or friend to take the cake and prepare it for preservation. Remove any decorations, such as sugar flowers and cake toppers, and wrap the cake in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by at least two layers of foil. Make sure to seal the wrapped cake in an airtight bag and store it in the freezer, preferably somewhere it won't be disturbed for a year, like your parents' house.

On Your Anniversary

When you are ready to eat the cake, take it out of the freezer and keep it in the fridge overnight. Then, leave it at room temperature on the counter for five to six hours before enjoying your treat!

Self-serve vs. plated

Deciding on the size of your wedding cake depends on several factors, including the number of guests, the time of serving, and whether there will be other desserts. It's also important to consider the desired level of formality and the potential impact on dietary restrictions. Here are some insights to help you choose between a self-serve or plated cake at your wedding:

Self-Serve Wedding Cake:

• Pros: A self-serve option can add a casual and interactive element to your wedding. It offers flexibility, as guests can choose their preferred cake flavor and serving size. This approach may also reduce staff requirements and associated costs.
• Cons: Self-serve can be less sanitary, as guests may use their fingers or the same utensil for serving, potentially leading to cross-contamination. It may result in uneven or oddly shaped slices, and guests might find it messy or inconvenient to serve themselves. Leftovers can be more challenging to manage if the cake is pre-sliced and plated.

Plated Wedding Cake:

• Pros: Plated cake service ensures consistency in portion sizes and presentation. It is more hygienic, as staff can wear gloves and use separate utensils for serving. This option is ideal for accommodating dietary restrictions, as guests can indicate their needs in advance, and custom meals can be prepared to avoid cross-contamination.
• Cons: Plated service typically requires more staff, which can increase costs, especially for travel fees if the venue is far away. It may also take longer, affecting the timing of your event. A seating chart is crucial for a smooth flow of service when choosing plated cake service.

When deciding between self-serve and plated options for your wedding cake, consider your priorities regarding guest interaction, hygiene, portion control, and cost. Both options can work well, but understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision for the big day.

Frequently asked questions