How Much Should You Budget For A Wedding Cake?

The average cost of a wedding cake in the UK is £400-£500, but this can vary significantly depending on factors such as the number of tiers, the complexity of the design, the bakery's reputation and location, and the ingredients used. A simple, two-tier wedding cake with minimal decoration can be an affordable option, starting from around £200, while a four-tier cake with multiple flavours and intricate details can cost £700 or more. The cost of a wedding cake also depends on whether it is a bespoke creation or a generic design, with custom cakes typically costing considerably more.

Tiers, size, and servings

Tiers

The number of tiers in a wedding cake is a significant factor in its price. The more tiers a cake has, the higher the cost. A single-tier cake, suitable for a small, intimate wedding, will be the most affordable option, while a four-tier cake will be considerably more expensive.

Size

The size of each tier also matters. Larger cakes require more ingredients, increasing the cost. A standard combination of a 6-inch top tier and an 8-inch bottom tier serves about 40-50 people and is a popular choice for a two-tier cake. A three-tier cake with 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch tiers can serve up to 100 guests.

Servings

The number of guests you plan to serve will influence the size and number of tiers required, thus affecting the overall cost. A good rule of thumb is to plan for one serving of cake per guest. However, if you anticipate leftovers or want to serve additional dessert options, you may need to adjust this calculation.

When it comes to wedding cakes, the number of tiers does not always directly correspond to the number of servings. For example, a two-tier cake may serve 40-50 people, while a three-tier cake with the same size tiers can serve up to 100. This is because the height and visual impact of each tier are also important considerations.

To ensure you have enough cake for your guests, it is essential to discuss your specific requirements with your cake designer or baker. They will be able to advise you on the appropriate size and number of tiers needed to accommodate your guest list.

In summary, the tiers, size, and servings of a wedding cake are interconnected factors that influence its overall cost. The more tiers and larger sizes you require, the higher the cost will be, and the more guests you plan to serve, the bigger the cake you will need.

Design and decoration

The design and decoration of a wedding cake play a significant role in determining its cost. A more elaborately decorated wedding cake will be significantly more expensive than a simple design. However, it's important to note that even a simple cake design may require a great deal of time and expertise to execute well, and the cost may be higher than expected.

The number of tiers, the size and shape of each tier, and the number of portions required all influence the price of the wedding cake. Some wedding cake makers charge different prices for different cake flavours, so choosing "premium" flavours for each tier may also increase the overall cost.

Fondant wedding cakes, for example, offer a lot of room for various wedding cake designs, styles, and the ability to incorporate the latest trends. They look stunning with sugar flowers and equally exquisite with dried or fresh flowers. Fondant-iced wedding cake designs are typically the most expensive type of wedding cake due to the skill and time required to achieve a smooth, crisp finish, as well as the level of decoration they frequently demand.

Semi-naked wedding cakes are usually the most budget-friendly option. They consist of sponge tiers with a thin layer of buttercream scraped back to expose sections of the sponge crust. This type of wedding cake is frequently chosen for rustic weddings, but caution should be exercised when considering this style because it has certain drawbacks, such as reduced stability in warmer environments and a higher risk of the cake drying out more quickly.

Buttercream and ganache-covered wedding cakes vary significantly in price depending on the type of design offered by the wedding cake designer. There are a number of talented cake makers in the UK who offer artistic designs at the higher end of the wedding cake pricing spectrum. However, more simple buttercream and ganache wedding cake designs are also available at a slightly lower price point.

The cost of a wedding cake is also heavily influenced by the cost of its ingredients. Due to inflation and supply chain issues in 2024, the cost of basic ingredients has increased slightly. The price of a homemade cake is influenced by the following factors:

• Flour: A 1kg bag of premium flour costs between £2.50 and £5, depending on whether it is organic or specialty flour. Most cakes require 250-500g, which costs £1-£3 per cake.
• Sugar: A 1kg bag of caster sugar costs around £2. Cakes typically require 200-300g of sugar, which adds about £1 to the total cost.
• Butter: The price of butter has increased in recent years, with a 250g block now costing around £3. For buttercream or sponge cakes, you'll need at least 500g, adding £6 to the total.
• Eggs: Free-range eggs are preferred for most homemade cakes. A pack of 6 costs around £3, and most cakes require 3-6 eggs, adding £1.50 to £3 to the cost.
• Vanilla extract: A small bottle of quality vanilla extract costs around £7. You'll need about a teaspoon per cake, so while the cost per cake is minimal, it can add up.
• Chocolate/Cocoa Powder: For chocolate cakes, high-quality chocolate or cocoa powder is essential. A 100g bar of good chocolate costs around £3-£6, and a cake might require 200-300g, adding £6-£12 to the total.

In addition, the baker's skill and experience play a significant role in the final cost of a wedding cake. Experienced bakers with a strong reputation and professional portfolios tend to charge higher prices than those who are new to the business or baking as a hobby.

Bakery and baker

The cost of a wedding cake in the UK can vary depending on the bakery and the baker. The average cost of a wedding cake in the UK ranges from £300 to £500, with some sources stating that the average is £400 to £500. However, the price can be lower or much higher depending on various factors.

Bakery

The cost of a wedding cake can vary depending on the bakery's reputation, location, and business model. A high-street storefront with a professional team will likely charge more than a small bakery or an amateur baker working from home. The geographical location of the bakery can also impact the cost, with cakes in London and the surrounding areas tending to be more expensive due to the higher cost of living and business rent.

Baker

The skill, experience, and reputation of the baker play a significant role in determining the price of a wedding cake. An experienced baker with a strong reputation and a professional portfolio will usually charge higher prices than a mid-level or hobbyist baker. Experienced bakers have the expertise to create intricate designs, use high-quality ingredients, and offer a wide range of customisation options, all of which contribute to a higher price.

Factors Affecting Cost

When it comes to the design of the cake, factors such as the number of tiers, the complexity of the design, and the size of the cake will influence the cost. A larger cake with more tiers and a complex design will be more expensive than a smaller cake with fewer tiers and a simpler design. The type of cake and the ingredients used will also impact the cost, with basic sponge cakes being more affordable than luxurious flavours like triple chocolate or alcohol-soaked fruit cake.

In summary, the cost of a wedding cake in the UK can vary widely depending on the bakery and the baker, as well as various factors such as design, size, and ingredients. Experienced bakers with a strong reputation will likely charge higher prices, and the location of the bakery may also impact the cost.

Ingredients and flavours

The cost of a wedding cake will depend on the ingredients used and the complexity of the design. When it comes to ingredients and flavours, there are numerous options to choose from, each affecting the overall cost.

The most traditional option is a fruit cake, which uses costly ingredients such as almonds, citrus peels, and a large quantity of eggs. These ingredients are essential to achieve the dense, moist texture and rich flavour that is expected of a fruit cake. Due to the high proportion of expensive ingredients, this type of cake often comes with a higher price tag.

For those who prefer a lighter, more contemporary option, sponge cakes are a popular choice. These can be made with a variety of ingredients, from the simple and classic vanilla sponge to more indulgent options such as chocolate, red velvet, or carrot cake. The cost of sponge cakes can vary depending on the flavour and the quality of ingredients used. For example, a chocolate sponge made with rich, high-quality cocoa will likely be more expensive than a vanilla sponge.

Another factor influencing the cost is the filling and frosting used between the layers. Common choices include buttercream, ganache, or fresh cream, paired with jams, curds, or fresh fruits. The type of filling can significantly impact the price, especially if fresh, high-quality, or luxury ingredients are used. For instance, a cake filled with fresh berries or topped with edible flowers will likely be pricier due to the additional cost of the decorations.

Furthermore, some couples may opt for a more unique or personalised flavour profile for their wedding cake. This could include less common ingredients or flavour combinations, such as a cake infused with floral notes or a hint of spice, or perhaps a boozy twist with a dash of liqueur. Creating a custom flavour will likely increase the cost due to the specialised ingredients and additional development time required.

Finally, it is important to consider any dietary requirements or allergies that need to be accommodated. Creating a gluten-free, vegan, or allergen-free cake may require alternative ingredients, which can sometimes be more expensive or harder to source. This will need to be factored into the overall cost to ensure that all guests can enjoy the cake.

Extras and add-ons

The cost of a wedding cake in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the number of tiers, the complexity of the design, and any additional extras or add-ons. While a basic wedding cake may include the cake itself and a simple stand, there are many other elements that can be added to enhance the presentation and overall experience. Here are some extras and add-ons to consider when budgeting for your wedding cake:

• Delivery and setup fees: These fees can vary depending on the complexity of the cake, the distance travelled, and the time involved. Some bakers may include these fees in the initial quote, while others may charge them as additional costs. It is important to clarify this with your chosen baker to avoid unexpected expenses.
• Custom cake stand: While a basic cake stand may be included in the initial quote, you may want to upgrade to a more elegant or extravagant stand to enhance the presentation of your cake. This can be a separate cost, so be sure to discuss this with your baker.
• Fresh flowers: If you wish to decorate your cake with fresh flowers, this will likely be an additional cost. Fresh flowers can add a beautiful, natural touch to your cake, but they will need to be sourced and arranged separately, which incurs a fee.
• Sugar flowers: Sugar flowers are a popular choice for wedding cakes, but they can be quite costly. These intricate decorations are handcrafted and can take a significant amount of time to create, so expect to pay a premium for them.
• Cake toppers: Whether you choose a custom topper or a ready-made option, this will be an additional cost. Bespoke toppers can be crafted to match your wedding theme and are a lovely personalised touch, but they will require more time and skill to create.
• Additional servings: If you have a large number of guests, you may need to order additional servings or opt for a larger cake. This will increase the overall cost, as more ingredients and labour will be required.
• Flavour choices: While a basic sponge cake may be included in the base price, more luxurious flavours like triple chocolate or alcohol-soaked fruit cake will incur additional charges. These premium ingredients can significantly impact the final cost of your cake.
• Dummy layers: If you want the impressive look of multiple tiers without the cost of additional cake, dummy layers can be a great option. These styrofoam layers are covered in icing to match the rest of the cake, providing height and drama without the added expense of extra servings.
• Cake tasting: Some bakers may include a complimentary cake tasting as part of their service, while others may charge a fee for this. If you want to sample different flavours and designs before making your final decision, be sure to factor in the cost of a cake tasting.
• Personalised details: Any personalised or bespoke elements will likely incur additional charges. This includes custom designs, intricate piping, fondant work, and other decorative details that require more time and skill to create.
• Seasonal variations: The cost of certain ingredients may fluctuate depending on the season. For example, fresh berries for a summer cake may be more expensive during the winter months. This can impact the overall price of your cake, so it's worth considering when budgeting.

When discussing your wedding cake with bakers, be sure to ask about any potential extra costs that may be incurred. It is also a good idea to have a clear idea of your budget and what elements are most important to you, as this will help guide your decisions and ensure you don't overspend.

Frequently asked questions