Non-Traditional Wedding Desserts

Vickie Olson Photography

Wedding cake: it’s ubiquitous. From simple designs to detailed maximalism, from sheets to tiers to layers, it’s a traditional expectation of the big day. But what if that’s not your thing? 

Maybe you’re already bucking tradition in other aspects of the planning process. Maybe you want a dessert that’s also a conversation starter. It could even be as simple as you and your beloved just don’t like cake that much. Luckily for you, there are so many creative and unique dessert options out there! I’m going to walk you through some of my favorites.

Bundtinis

Listen, I know I said this wasn’t going to be about cake, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t talk about Bundtinis as an alternative wedding dessert. Combining the delicious flavors of Nothing Bundt Cake fame with the ease of eating associated with cupcakes and muffins, Bundtinis – mini bundt cakes topped with a dollop of cream cheese frosting – are always a crowd pleaser. It’s also something that doesn’t necessarily require plates or utensils, making set up hassle-free. Visit their website to see all the available flavors.

Candy Buffet

For everyone that’s watched an iteration of Willy Wonka and dreamed that one day that could be you, this may be the perfect dessert choice. A candy buffet is exactly what it sounds like: an assortment of your favorite candy and candied treats from which your guests are free to graze. Provide some goodie bags and it can double as your party favors, or place it near the entrance and invite guests to take some treats as they arrive. Many companies can also personalize your order with custom colors or lettering which will be sure to stand out!

Cream Puffs

Light, airy, and delicious, cream puffs are an excellent pastry choice that will leave your guests raving. With filling options ranging from a traditional pastry cream to chocolate mousse to fruit compote and everything in between, there are so many fun ways to put your own twist on this classic dessert. 

(P.S. Feeling brave and/or French? Try a full croquembouche! An impressive tower of cream puffs drizzled with caramel to bind the pieces together – what’s not to love?)

Dessert Shooters

With everyone dressed to the nines, the last thing you want to have to worry about is frosting and crumbs getting everywhere. Dessert shooters offer the perfect solution: bite size, layered goodness all in one easy to handle shooter cup. This option is also great for the indecisive couple; you can have as many flavor options as your heart desires and the array of shooter cups looks lovely displayed for your guests.

Doughnuts

Skip the Dunkin’ drive thru – why not bring the doughy treats right to the party?! Doughnuts are another great “grab-and-go” dessert that don’t require additional plasticware. There are also so many unique ways to display them, allowing your creative vision to shine through. Doughnuts walls or shelves are a fun way to arrange them; you can also stack them on tiered trays to give the illusion of a traditional cake. Or, bring the Great Minnesota Get-Together to your big day with warm mini donuts! We at Fork and Flair love offering this State Fair staple with topping options of hot fudge, caramel, and powdered sugar.

Edible Arrangements

For a truly inspired twist, why not opt for a variety of edible arrangements? Visually, they can add texture and intrigue to your dessert table. Fruit is also a great compromise for those who aren’t the biggest dessert fans to begin with – sweet enough to itch that craving, but refreshing enough to carry you to the dance floor.

Ice Cream

Who doesn’t love the nostalgia that an ice cream cart brings? Throw it back to summers on the beach by hiring an ice cream truck or cart vendor to scoop icy treats for you and your guests all night long. Make it even more special with custom mix-ins or other fun toppings to create a delicious one of a kind masterpiece!

Macarons

For all my gluten-free folks who are trying to decide on a wheat-less dessert, may I introduce you to another French delight: macarons. Naturally gluten-free, these little pastries are made with almond flour and are an adorable bite-size treat for your big day. They can come in a variety of flavors and colors, and the filling (like with cream puffs) can range depending on your specific tastes.

S’mores

Where are my camping couples? Did you know that the s’mores don’t have to stay at the campsite? If your venue has an outdoor location with a fire pit, you can have a station set up there and guests can rotate through. However, if your venue only has indoor options, there are tabletop fire pits you can purchase and guests can mingle and drink while toasting their marshmallows inside. This option provides a fun interactive component and is always a smash with any invited kiddos. 

(Note: Always make sure to check your venue restrictions around open flames!)

Waffle Bar

And finally, the list would not be complete without the classic breakfast-for-dessert favorite: a waffle bar. Imagine an elevated version of what you’d find at a continental breakfast, but with a scrumptious selection of toppings and garnishes. You can even find custom shaped waffle irons to match your theme and decor! 

I hope this list expands your horizons when it comes to wedding desserts! Your wedding is a special and unique celebration of you and your partner's love, so be bold with it. Choose the dessert that truly speaks to you both, and make it an event that you and your guests will never forget.