Wedding Cake Costs: Price Per Slice Explained

The cost of a wedding cake is a tricky business, with prices varying depending on the size, style, and flavour of the cake, as well as the number of tiers, the ingredients used, and the location. Wedding cakes are usually priced by the slice, with the average cost ranging from $2.50 to $8 per slice in the US. However, some more complex designs and specialty ingredients can increase the price to around $12 per slice. The average total cost of a wedding cake in the US is around $500, with couples typically spending between $300 and $700.

Fondant vs buttercream

The cost of a wedding cake varies depending on the size, style, and flavour. The average cost of a wedding cake in the US is around $500, with most couples spending between $300 and $700. The average number of wedding guests was 115 in 2023, which means you'll likely need a multi-tiered wedding cake. The price per slice of wedding cake can range from $2.50 to $12, with fondant cakes usually starting at $5 per slice and buttercream cakes at $4 per slice.

Now, onto the differences between fondant and buttercream. Fondant is a paste made from powdered sugar, water, and glycerine that can be rolled thinly and used to cover cakes. It is often chosen for its brilliant white colour and versatility in creating vibrant novelty cakes or modelling elaborate designs and patterns. While fondant offers a clean, flawless, and smooth appearance, it is not known for its taste, described by some as "artificial" or "super sweet." Fondant is also more expensive and time-consuming to work with and may not be suitable for all cake types.

Buttercream, on the other hand, is a combination of butter and sugar whipped together to create a smooth and spreadable frosting. It is known for its rich, creamy texture and taste, which can be customised with various ingredients to suit different flavour profiles. Buttercream is generally more affordable and can be tinted with food colouring to match any colour scheme. However, it is more susceptible to melting or "sweating" in warm temperatures, so it may not be ideal for outdoor weddings or events in hot weather.

Ultimately, the choice between fondant and buttercream depends on your priorities. If you want a towering, Instagram-worthy cake with a clean and elegant look, fondant is a good option. If you prioritise taste and want your guests to enjoy a delicious and flavourful cake, buttercream is the way to go.

Cake size

The size of a wedding cake is a crucial factor in determining its overall cost. Bigger cakes require more ingredients, which directly contributes to a higher price. The number of tiers, for instance, significantly impacts the final cost. A multi-tiered wedding cake, often necessary for larger weddings, demands more ingredients, labour, and specialised baking techniques to ensure structural stability.

The number of servings is another essential consideration when determining cake size. The standard wedding cake slice is about 1x2 inches, with larger portions measuring 1.5x2 inches. The size of your guest list will dictate the number of servings required. For instance, an average 8-inch round cake serves about 15 people, while a 16-inch cake can serve up to 100 guests.

When planning your cake size, it's important to decide if you want enough cake for every guest or just the right-sized slices for all. Typically, about 75-85% of wedding guests will indulge in the cake. If you're opting for a classic round tiered cake, the following guidelines can help:

• 5-inch round: 8 servings
• 6-inch round: 12 servings
• 8-inch round: 24 servings
• 10-inch round: 38 servings
• 12-inch round: 56 servings
• 14-inch round: 78 servings

For square cakes, the serving sizes vary:

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

To save money, consider a "display" or "dummy" cake for photos and the cake-cutting ceremony. A separate sheet cake can be served to your guests, often at a lower cost per slice.

Complexity of design

The complexity of design is a significant factor in determining the average cost of a wedding cake per slice. The more intricate and detailed the design, the higher the price will be. This includes decorative elements such as fondant flowers, geodes, metallic foil, and intricate icing designs. Sugar flowers, in particular, can be very time-consuming to create and can significantly increase the cost.

The level of intricacy in the design, colours, and style of the cake will influence the price. For example, a cake with an edible gold leaf or ombre frosting may be more expensive. Unusual shapes and custom designs will also increase the cost, as they require more labour and may need special equipment.

The type of frosting chosen will also impact the price per slice. Fondant is generally more expensive than buttercream as it is more versatile for decorations and can withstand warmer temperatures. Fondant designs can be around $10 per slice, while buttercream finishes are typically around $6 per slice.

Additionally, the skill and time required to create certain designs must be considered. Complex designs or fondant sculptures demand precision and can be very labour-intensive, increasing the overall cost.

The complexity of design is a crucial factor in determining the final price of a wedding cake, and it is important to discuss these details with your baker to understand how they will impact the cost.

Number of tiers

The number of tiers you want your wedding cake to have will be a significant factor in determining the final price. The more tiers, the harder the cake is to transport and the more there is to decorate, so you can expect a higher price.

A multi-tiered cake will require more ingredients, which will bump up the overall cost. The baker will also need to spend more time and have more skills to create a cake with multiple tiers, so this will be reflected in the price. A multi-tiered cake will also need a solid internal framework to hold up the weight, which will add complexity and cost.

The height of the tiers will also make a difference. Taller cakes, or "double-barrel cakes", are more complex to create and will therefore be more expensive.

The number of tiers will also determine the number of servings you can get from a cake. A single 8-inch round cake will serve about 24 people, whereas a 12-inch round cake will serve 56. So, if you have a large number of guests, you will need a cake with more tiers, which will cost more.

If you want to save money, you could opt for a smaller cake with fewer tiers and supplement it with other desserts like cookies or cupcakes.

Cake flavour

The cost of a wedding cake varies depending on several factors, including the flavour. While the flavour may not significantly impact the price, requesting certain custom flavours may increase the cost.

Wedding cakes are usually priced by the slice, with prices ranging from $2.50 to $12 per slice. The more specialty or custom the cake, the more expensive it will be. For example, unusual shapes, custom sugar flower details, and fondant frosting can increase the price.

Some common wedding cake flavours include vanilla, chocolate, and red velvet. Couples can also choose from a variety of unique flavours, such as Earl Grey with orange Chantilly cream, caramel apple, or cookies and cream. Bakers can create almost any flavour combination, but cakes with multiple layers of different flavours or fillings will typically cost more per slice.

Additionally, cakes with organic, gluten-free, or exotic ingredients will generally be more expensive. For example, a cake with a homemade fruit compote or liquor-infused sponge may be more costly due to the time and ingredients involved.

When choosing a wedding cake flavour, couples should consider their preferences, budget, and any dietary restrictions of their guests. It is also important to note that the cost of a wedding cake can be impacted by factors such as the size of the cake, the number of tiers, the complexity of the design, and the type of frosting.

Frequently asked questions