Choosing the wedding cake’s design and flavors is one of the most fun tasks that comes with planning a wedding, but it still takes time and effort to find the perfect fit. As with everything else in the world of weddings, cake styles are changing all the time according to different trends, especially what’s popular on social media.
In 2023, we’re seeing a delightful mix of going back to tradition, trying fresh new ideas, or even taking wedding cakes in a completely different direction. Here are some of the popular trends winning the hearts of couples this year.
6 Trending Wedding Cake Styles in 2023
Some of the most popular wedding cake trends this year include:
1. Waterfall or Spiral Flower Effects
Flowers have been a popular element of wedding cakes for a long time, but this mesmerizing new trend showcases them in a flowing pattern from the top to the base. The effect is beautiful, romantic, and truly special, especially in photos. Some cakes feature a subtle sprinkle of petals, while others are drenched in a floral cascade.
2. Grand Wedding Cakes
Grand cakes are large, gorgeous, and often extra-tall, with elaborate piping and details like edible gold leaf. Couples looking to leave this kind of lasting impression often take inspiration from royal weddings, known for having towering confections with five or more tiers.
3. “Floating” Wedding Cakes
This gravity-defying cake style elevates one or multiple tiers using clear acrylic separators or hidden pillars. As the name suggests, the tiers appear to float, breaking away from the traditional stacked look. The gap between layers can also be decorated with fairy lights, flowers, colored water, or hanging ornaments.
4. Hand-Painted Wedding Cakes
Pastry chefs are talented artists who can do amazing things with edible paints made from food coloring. Hand-painted wedding cakes are becoming a favorite choice for couples who want a one-of-a-kind masterpiece for their celebration. The options are endless, from intricate floral patterns to delicate watercolor effects.
5. Alternative Wedding Cake Flavors
Classic wedding cake choices like vanilla, chocolate, and lemon remain extremely popular, but many couples are turning to alternative flavors that reflect their personalities, unique tastes, or cultural backgrounds. Some of the new flavors surprising guests in 2023 include:
- Matcha: This specialty green tea flavor adds a rich and earthy taste as well as vibrant color.
- Chai spice: A warming mix of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and other fragrant spices that’s especially popular for fall weddings.
- Mango and passionfruit: Delightful tropical flavors that are both sweet and tart when paired together.
- Fruit and herb flavors: Refreshing twists like lemon basil, strawberry mint, or peach rosemary.
Also, cakes with champagne, rum, or bourbon can offer a decadent kick that pairs well with many other flavors.
6. Unconventional Desserts
While traditional wedding cakes are beautiful, some couples are thinking outside the box and choosing more unconventional dessert choices to celebrate their special day. The wedding cake alternatives available are pretty much infinite, but some of the most popular options are:
- Dessert tables: An assortment of cookies, brownies, pastries, and other sweet treats, allowing guests to pick their favorite.
- Cupcake or donut towers: This fun and modern choice arranges donuts or cupcakes to mimic the look of a traditional tiered cake, with easy serving and a variety of flavors.
- Pie stations: A selection of delicious pies can bring a homey, comforting touch, especially to a more rustic-themed wedding.
- Ice cream bars: Especially ideal for summertime weddings, an ice cream bar with plenty of flavors and toppings can be an amazing experience for guests.
No matter what cake design you choose, your wedding cake should reflect your and your partner’s personality.
Contact Windows on the Water for an Unforgettable Wedding Experience
The trends highlighted here are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how couples are approaching their wedding cakes in 2023. As with all things wedding-related, it’s all about personal preference and making the day as enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re planning a wedding that’s elegant and romantic or colorful and family-friendly, Windows on the Water is the perfect setting for celebrating your special day.
We offer New Jersey couples gorgeous outdoor spaces, incredible cuisine, and attentive service every step of the way. Call (609) 208-9475 or fill out our website’s contact form to learn how we can bring your dream wedding to life.