Custom Wedding Cakes: How Much Do They Cost?

Wedding cakes are priced based on several factors, including size, shape, design, flavour, and the number of servings required. The price of a wedding cake can vary significantly, ranging from as low as $125 to upwards of $1000. On average, couples in the US spend around $500, with most spending between $300 and $700. The type of frosting also affects the price, with fondant being more expensive than buttercream. The cost of a wedding cake also depends on the experience of the baker and the complexity of the design. Couples can expect to pay a higher price for a cake with multiple tiers, intricate decorations, and custom flavours.

Number of guests

The price of a custom wedding cake will depend on the number of guests you plan to invite. Wedding cakes are usually priced by the slice, with the average price of a slice of cake being around $4 for buttercream and $5 for fondant. The more slices you need, the more expensive the cake will be.

For example, if you are planning a wedding with 100 guests, you can expect to pay around $400 for a very basic buttercream cake or $500 for a plain fondant cake. If you are having 200 guests, the price will increase to around $800-$900 for a basic cake.

To save money on your wedding cake, you can opt for a smaller "display" cake for photographs and the cake-cutting ceremony, and then serve a less expensive sheet cake to your guests. This can save you hundreds of dollars. You can also choose a cake with buttercream frosting instead of fondant, as this is usually a more affordable option.

Another way to save money is to serve "half-servings" or smaller slices of cake. Most guests only eat a few bites, so you can get away with ordering less cake. For example, if you are having 200 guests, you only need to order a cake that serves 100 people.

When budgeting for your wedding cake, it's important to consider the cost of additional factors such as delivery, setup, and cake stands or toppers. These can add to the overall cost of the cake. It's also a good idea to book your baker early, as popular bakers may require at least four months of lead time.

Cake size

The size of a wedding cake is a primary factor in determining its cost. The bigger the cake, the more ingredients and labour are required, which increases the overall cost. The number of tiers and servings will, of course, affect the overall size of the cake.

The size of the cake will depend on the number of guests you plan to serve. A standard 8-inch round cake serves about 15 people. If you have a larger guest list, you will need a multi-tiered cake.

To determine the right size for your wedding cake, you should consider not only the number of guests but also whether you want enough cake for everyone or just the right-sized slices for all. Usually, about 75-85% of guests will eat the wedding cake.

• 6" tier = 14 slices
• 8" tier = 26 slices
• 10" tier = 40 slices
• 12" tier = 56 slices
• 14" tier = 78 slices
• 16" tier = 100 slices

If you want to save money on your wedding cake, you can consider ordering a smaller display cake and supplementing it with a sheet cake that can be served to guests. Sheet cakes are more affordable and can be just as delicious.

Another option is to go for a less complex shape and design. Wedding cake prices are largely based on labour, so a simple design such as a square or round cake with minimal decorations will be more affordable.

Cake shape

The shape of your wedding cake can be a fun way to express your personality and style. Here are some unique and traditional cake shapes to consider:

Square

Square cakes are a fun twist on the traditional tiered cake. They give the impression of a bundle of gifts, and their sharp edges make them a dream for caterers to cut and serve.

Mixed

Why choose just one shape when you can have them all? Play around with different shapes for a truly unique geometric display. Alternating round, square, and rectangular tiers or throwing in a heart-shaped tier for good measure will create a cake that's a statement piece.

Heart

A heart-shaped cake is a romantic option for your big day. You could even display a handful of heart-shaped cakes for your guests to enjoy.

Cylindrical

A cylindrical cake is a fun twist on the classic round cake. It elongates your dessert without needing extra tiers, giving it a modern flair.

Abstract

Add abstract designs or decorations to your cake to make it stand out. This could be a normal round-tiered cake with flair or a uniquely shaped cake with abstract elements.

Hexagonal

A hexagonal cake is a one-of-a-kind option for your wedding. This geometric shape adds a creative, modern touch while still giving a classic tiered effect.

Round

The round cake is a classic for a reason. It symbolizes unity with its wedding ring shape. You could have a small round cake for the traditional cake-cutting moment and a larger version to serve your guests.

Custom

Think outside the box with a custom-shaped cake. Anything goes, from a hamburger cake to a cake that represents your favourite hobby. Just remember that any shape outside of round or square may be trickier to cut and serve.

Rectangular

Rectangular cakes, also known as sheet cakes, are a great option for serving a large number of guests. They are usually served as a single layer and can be a unique display on your big day.

Other Shapes

There are endless possibilities for wedding cake shapes, including oval, petal, staircase, and sculptural cakes. You could even have a cake shaped like a dress or a sphere. So, get creative and choose a shape that reflects your personality and style.

Cake flavour

The flavour of your wedding cake is a crucial element of your big day. It's important to choose a flavour that you and your partner enjoy, whether it's a classic option or something more unique. Here are some factors and flavour options to consider when selecting your wedding cake flavour:

Traditional Flavours:

Vanilla, chocolate, lemon, strawberry, and red velvet are classic wedding cake flavours that are generally well-liked by guests. Vanilla, in particular, is a safe choice that can be paired with various fillings, such as passionfruit curd, raspberry, or heavy vanilla cream. Chocolate lovers may want to add a twist with hazelnut cake and chocolate buttercream, dark chocolate matcha with berries, or mint chocolate. For a fruity twist, consider pairing lemon cake with raspberries or strawberries.

Unique and Trendy Flavours:

If you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of unique flavour combinations to explore. Some options include butterscotch bourbon, strawberry watermelon, mango with matcha, banana foster, olive oil and rosemary, and even blue cheese created by cake designer Jasmine de Lung. These days, wedding cake flavours can include unusual ingredients like tea, herbs, and savoury foods.

Seasonal and Thematic Flavours:

Consider incorporating seasonal or thematic elements into your wedding cake flavour. For a summer wedding, light and refreshing flavours like lemon or tropical fruit combinations are ideal. In the fall, spice cake with pumpkin cream cheese frosting or apple spice cake with salted caramel frosting can be perfect. For a winter wedding, rich chocolate flavours or warm spices are excellent choices.

Cultural Influences:

You can also add a personal touch by incorporating cultural influences into your wedding cake flavour. For example, a Middle Eastern-inspired cake might include pistachio, figs, and sesame, while an Indian-inspired cake could feature coconut and mango.

Dietary Restrictions:

Don't forget to consider any dietary restrictions your guests may have. Offer vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free options to ensure everyone can enjoy the cake.

Multiple Flavours:

If you can't decide on just one flavour or want to accommodate different tastes, consider having multiple flavours in your wedding cake. You can have a different flavour for each tier or incorporate additional flavours through icing, filling, soak, or compote.

Remember, the flavour of your wedding cake is a reflection of your personal taste and should be chosen based on what you and your partner love. Be creative, think about what flavours hold special meaning to you, and don't be afraid to step outside the box if you're feeling adventurous!

Cake decorations

Buttercream Frosting

A smooth, creamy frosting made from butter and sugar, which can be coloured or flavoured. Cakes can be entirely coated in buttercream, or it can be used for hand-piped designs and as a filling between cake layers.

Fondant

A sweet icing made from sugar, corn syrup and gelatin. Fondant is rolled out flat and draped over the cake, creating a smooth, seamless finish that's ideal for adding sugar flowers, hand-piped designs, painted patterns and other embellishments. It is generally more expensive than buttercream.

Ganache

A soft, spreadable frosting made from chocolate and heavy cream, used as an icing or filling. Ganache is denser than mousse but less dense than fudge. Like buttercream, it is susceptible to warm temperatures.

Gold Leaf

A thin, edible foil made from 24-karat gold that can be applied to both buttercream and fondant for a luxurious, shimmering effect. It is usually used in tiny, abstract flakes, and can also be found in silver or rose gold.

Sugar Flowers

Sugar flowers are a popular choice for wedding cakes. They are crafted by hand or piped directly onto the cake using frosting. Sugar flowers can be finished with edible paint or gold leaf, and preserved as wedding keepsakes.

Gum Paste

A clay-like paste made from sugar, cornstarch and gelatin, used to create realistic-looking fruits and flowers. Gum paste decorations can be finished with edible paint or gold leaf.

Royal Icing

Made from egg whites and confectioners' sugar, this icing starts as a soft paste and hardens into a smooth covering. It is often used for hand-piped designs such as latticework, beading, flowers and other patterns.

Naked Cake

A unique, modern trend, especially for summer weddings, where the cake is left unfrosted, exposing the layers and filling. It can be decorated with cake toppers, fresh flowers and eucalyptus branches.

Semi-Naked Cake

Similar to the naked cake, but with a thin layer of frosting, leaving some of the cake layers and filling uncovered.

Sprinkles

Sprinkles add a whimsical touch to a wedding cake. Cover a white buttercream cake in rainbow sprinkles for a playful take on a traditional dessert.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. The possibilities for cake decorations are endless, and you can work with your baker to create a unique design that reflects your style and personality.

Frequently asked questions