There are many important decisions in the wedding planning process. And one of them is choosing the dessert for the reception. Many couples go the traditional route and choose a multiple-tiered wedding cake. But as time goes on, some couples are choosing to go for a non-traditional option. There are many reasons for this. It’s a good way to cut costs. Or if you’re having a smaller wedding, opting for a different dessert option would be much less wasteful than choosing a huge cake. Couples are also being more unique with their dessert choices because it’s a fun way to express themselves. It can be used as a reminder of a childhood memory, or something that takes them back to that first date. Keep reading to learn more about our 6 Creative Alternatives to a Wedding Cake.

6 Creative Alternatives to a Wedding Cake

Photographer: Sarah Hedden Photography

1. Pie

First on our list of 6 Creative Alternatives to a Wedding Cake is pie. Pie is a popular option and has many flavors to choose from. Apple is a classic flavor, but depending on the season, there are lots of other options. Cherry, strawberry-rhubarb, blackberry, banana crème, key lime, or chocolate would be a good choice. Because some of your guests might have certain dietary restrictions, you can customize a pie or two for their needs.

2. Mini Dessert Bar

Next on the list of 6 Creative Alternatives to a Wedding Cake is a mini dessert bar. This is another fun way to add a personal touch. There are many options for a mini dessert bar. Milk and cookie shooters, mini cheesecake bites, mini pies, and mini Bundt cakes are all really fun options. You could also have individual servings of banana pudding or chocolate pudding in mini ramekins or even a shot glass for the adults. Your photographer will love taking photos of your mini dessert bar because it's such an original touch.

3. Ice Cream Bar

Coming in at number three on our list of 6 Creative Alternatives to a Wedding Cake is an ice cream bar. Especially if you’re having a wedding during the summer months, ice cream is the perfect way to keep your guests cool. Plus it’s another way for your guests to customize their dessert. You could pick some classic toppings or think outside the box.

4. Cupcakes

Next on the list is cupcakes. Cupcakes are another great alternative to a wedding cake. Depending on how many guests you have, cupcakes can be more cost-effective. Planning on one regular-sized cupcake or three mini cupcakes per guest should be plenty. You can also create a cupcake tower to give the effect of a traditional wedding cake.

5. Doughnuts

The next to last dessert on the list of 6 Creative Alternatives to a Wedding Cake is doughnuts. Or a doughnut tower. Doughnuts are a classic treat that can take many people back to childhood. It’s also very easy to assemble a doughnut tower, which will certainly get the guests talking.

6. Cheesecake

The final dessert on the list of 6 Creative Alternatives to a Wedding Cake is cheesecake. Cheesecake is very popular and many people's favorite. If you wanted to have the look of a cake, you could easily achieve this with cheesecake. Or you could have a cheesecake table at the reception and let your guests pick their favorites.

If you would like to learn more about our 6 Creative Alternatives to a Wedding Cake, contact us to speak to one of our wedding planning professionals.