Guide to Non-Traditional Wedding Desserts
Forget about tried-and-true cake and go with one of these originals.
Jan 9, 2009
Weddings can be formulaic, but hip brides know that the element of surprise is what makes their event stand out in a sea of white dresses and rose bouquets. Surprise your guests where it counts – at dessert time – with these clever and delicious ideas.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
There's nothing you love more than a trip to the candy store, so why not bring the candy store to your wedding? Candy tables, with assorted jars and dishes of different candy, make a great centerpiece and a chance for guests to relive their childhood as they find their old favorites. The candy table also makes a great conversation piece and an opportunity to co-ordinate candy with your wedding colors. For an added plus, provide small bags so that guests can take some home for later. They won't soon forget your colorful – and playful – display.
Go Homemade
Instead of traditional cake, why don't you opt for a dessert that has a homemade charm: pie! Pies are a great option because they're less expensive than cake but often much more tasty. You can offer many different flavors, based on the season (pumpkin for fall, berry in summer) or the colors of your wedding, and remember to include your favorite flavors!
Think Individual
Instead of a main cake that everyone eats, try providing an individual dessert at each place or each table. Chocolate truffles wrapped in small boxes near each guest's place can be a nice gesture, or try providing each table at the reception with their own small cake or confection. You could even try individual plates of your favorite cookies or other favorite treat.
Give Choice to the Masses
"Let them eat cake" changes meaning here; instead, let them eat whatever they feel like eating! Try a dessert spread that includes several options, like small tortes, mini pies and cream puffs. You'll please the non-chocolate eaters with fruity pastry and the chocoholics will love the rich creamy chocolatey options, and everyone will go home happy.
Change the Cake
If you're a bride who wants to surprise guests, but still loves cake, there's a way around that too. Just remember that a standard cake won't do it. Make your cake uniquely yours with a funky cake topper, a wacky design that reflects you and your groom or a bright pattern or color.
You can present a very simple cake that has a surprising flavor or color inside, and that will change your guests' mind, or you can serve mini cakes, cupcakes or cake in a non-traditional form. Just remember, no matter what you do, pick something to serve at your wedding that reflects you uniquely.
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