15 Delectable Alternatives to a Wedding Cake
There are several reasons why a traditional wedding cake may not be in the cards for your big day. With the movement away from conventional customs growing for weddings in 2026, we at Tilling House in Eatontown, NJ, have compiled some of the best alternatives to the traditional wedding cake for both the sweet tooth and otherwise.
Desert Bar
Why have one desert when you can have options? A desert bar can allow you to still have the traditional cake-cutting experience without limiting what sweets guests can enjoy. Opt for an array of cookies, brownies, and cake pops to round out the dessert portion of the night.
Cupcake Tower
If you love cake but don’t want to be tied down to one flavor profile, a cupcake tower may be the ideal compromise. By serving smaller portions with an array of flavors, you can allow guests to explore desserts without worrying about more than one dessert.
Cheesecake
A mix of sweet and savory, cheesecake flavors can vary greatly. From original New York to seasonal delights like key lime and pumpkin, cheesecake can satisfy both tangy and sweet palette preferences. Consider serving mini portions or by the slice for easy enjoyment.
Ice Cream
Pastries aren’t the only wedding cake alternatives. A wonderful addition to a summer wedding, ice cream is a cool way to close out the festivities. An ice cream bar, ice cream truck, or pre-made ice cream sandwiches are all suitable options to ensure your guests get dessert worth melting for.
Crepe Station
Add a touch of France to your wedding with a made-to-order crepe station. Let guests choose between both sweet and savory fillings, ranging from fruit and cheeses to creams and preserves.
S’mores
Another summer wedding classic, give guests the option of roasting their own marshmallows for s’mores. If your wedding venue includes outdoor accommodations, a few fire pits, and available s’mores amenities could make your wedding night reminiscent of childhood.
Macarons
Make macarons the star of the dessert table with a colorful array of the small sandwich cookies. A unique display, along with its signature pop of color, can make this dessert option as much of an accessory to your wedding decor as a delicious treat.
Donut Bar
A fun and interactive dessert option, a donut bar can add a bit of excitement to the after-dinner party. With frosting and toppings options that are customized to fit your wedding theme, donuts can be both a budget-friendly and memorable addition to your reception.
Portioned Cake Parfaits
If you want cake without the leftover hassle, cake parfaits can be the compromise between tradition and innovation. Portioned servings accompanied by toppings and additional layers can be a sweet twist on the classic wedding cake.
Mini (or Whole) Pies
Fall isn’t complete without a few pies, making this dessert choice a cozy one for any fall wedding. Whether in addition to a traditional cake or on its own, the variety of pie flavors and presentations can make this a versatile addition to any style wedding.
Cheese Wheel Cake
A cheese wheel cake is the perfect option for the couple who wants a savory end to their night without sacrificing celebration. Cut into a cheese wheel cake to then serve with an array of crackers, fruit, nuts, cured meats, and spreads, [blah blah]
Cannoli
Symbolic of fertility and the celebration of new life in Italian tradition, cannoli can be the delectable representation of two families joining during a wedding ceremony. Cannoli stations can allow guests to customize their own dessert with filling and topping choices, while “roaming” services can make for a memorable experience by piping the cannoli fresh at guests’ tables.
Croquembouche
A traditional French dessert made of cream puffs and held together in a tower by caramel, a croquembouche is both a whimsical and traditional way to replace a wedding cake. Hailed as the celebration cake of France, a croquembouche can be an unmatched way to blend both old and new.
Breakfast
Who said breakfast can’t be for dessert? Consider dessert-adjacent breakfast options for the dinner closer at your wedding, with Belgian waffles and pancakes being the conduits of even tastier toppings like whipped cream and fruits. Even better if it’s served late at night for that early-morning pick-me-up!
Crème Brûlée
Personal servings of the “burnt cream” classic can be a sugar-coated finish to a beautiful ceremony. With a number of different ways to dress up the dessert, consider crème brûlée for a sophisticated yet quirky way to send off your guests.
Weddings at Tilling House
No matter your dessert preference, Tilling House in Eatontown, NJ, would love to make your wedding dessert dreams come true! From our indoor and outdoor accommodations for any time of year to our divine cuisine, we want to make your special day perfect. To book a tour or learn more about our venue, please contact us for more information.