When it comes to weddings, there are numerous ways to do things. Unfortunately, there are also countless streams of advice, information, and opinions from friends, family, and the internet telling you what you should do and what you should avoid.
One such topic is regarding wedding cakes – namely what they should contain, and how they should be presented. The most notable facet of this is whether tiered or layered cakes are the best.
So this poses the question: what is the difference, and, if there is a difference, which one is actually the best?
‘Tiered’ & ‘Layered’ Cakes: What’s The Difference?
Generally speaking, when we talk about the tiers and layers of a cake, we are talking about distinctly different elements of the overall construction.
Tiers
In the cake world, tiers refer to a cake which stands tall, with different levels decreasing in size as it works its way up.
These are undoubtedly the most commonly associated cake with wedding celebrations, and have been typified in the various royal weddings we have seen over the years.
Layers
A layered cake refers to one that has different layers inside – usually with some form of sponge cake, cream, and fruit filling such as jam or jelly.
These are generally not seen in traditional wedding cakes, which are usually forms of fruit cake – that is, a solid mass of mixture, instead of distinct layers of ingredients and flavors.
The Benefits Of Tiered Cakes
When it comes to a wedding cake, there are certain benefits to having a tiered cake for the big day.
Easier To Preserve
Firstly, not everyone wants to give all of their cake to their guests, and there could be any number of different plans and intentions that the couple might have.
In royal weddings, it is common for the couple to save a tier for their one year anniversary, or even the christening of their first born child. This means they need a more savory cake that can be separated into sections.
Grander Appearance
Another benefit is that they also appear to be more grander. This is normally due to the height and the intricacy of the different tiers – and if you are going for a classy, royalty inspired wedding, then tiers might be the way to go.
Different Flavors
One other benefit of a tiered cake is that you can always make each tier a different distinct flavor – even decorating them differently and offering something notably unique in each level of the finished article.
This can be a good choice for those who cannot decide on a single flavor or variety, and who might want to offer their guests something a little more exciting.
More Traditional
Of course, tiered wedding cakes are also more generally considered to be traditional than other forms of cake.
This could be important for someone who wants a more traditional wedding, and really feels more like a wedding cake due to this association.
Downsides To Tiered Cakes
As you might imagine though, creating something so elaborate can come with certain downsides.
They Can Sustain Damage
As you might imagine, cake isn’t meant to be used as a building material, and as such the taller the cake, the higher the likelihood that some damage will occur.
Firstly, tiered cakes are also prone to sinking in the middle – due in part to the weight of the finished cake, and also the impact of gravity working down on the middle.
Difficult To Transport
Depending on the distance the tiered cake has to travel, they can also be harder to transport.
This also means that they are harder to store in a van or a car, and are more at risk of toppling over on the journey if the driver is not being careful, going too fast, or encounters some kind of road problem or accident.
The Benefits Of Layered Cakes
Similarly, there are also certain benefits to layered cakes that make them suitable and popular choices for weddings.
Richer Flavor
The layers within the cake can overall create a more complex and interesting flavor than something like a fruit cake – the common choice for tiered wedding cakes.
With a layer cake, you can really go to town, incorporating more modern flavors and styles to create a truly delicious cake.
Easier To Transport
They are also easier to transport, due to their smaller (or separated) presentation. This means that there is less chance of damage en route, and less chance of accidental sinkage in the middle of the cake.
Cheaper To Make
Generally speaking, layered cakes are smaller than tiered cakes, and are thus cheaper to make and pay for.
This can be great for people on a more limited or modest budget, and also means that they can generally be collected from any bakery too – not just a wedding cake store.
More Modern
For those wanting a more modern wedding, foregoing the standard tiered wedding cake can be an important step in the process.
Are There Any Downsides?
Of course, there are also some downsides to layered cakes.
Lack Of Traditionalism
For some, the lack of traditionalism could be a bad thing, and this could be considered a big no-no for some families – depending on customs and culture.
Shorter Lifespan
Generally speaking, tiered fruit cakes last longer than layered, regular cake – something that can be a downside for those wanting to save their cake for longer, and make use of it at functions surrounding the wedding.
So, Which Is The Better Option?
As you might imagine, there is no easy answer to this question – namely due to the subjective nature of the whole topic.
Wedding plans, and what options people want to include, are obviously down to the personal choice of the couple, and whichever they choose is the right answer for them. However, there are some areas for people to consider when making their choice.
Layer Cakes For The Modern Lovers
For those looking for a more modern wedding, then a layer cake might be the more exciting and fresh option for them to explore.
These usually have more flavor options, not to mention being more versatile in terms of decorations and overall visuals.
Tiered Cakes For The Traditionalists
For those wanting the big, traditional wedding, then a tiered wedding cake might be the way to go. This can be important for some people, especially if they are religious or have certain family traditions.
While more limited, they make up for this fact with the overall grandeur – something that can be good for those looking for their own slice of fairytale heaven or royal wedding flair.
Final Thoughts
And there we have it, everything you need to know about wedding cake traditions, and whether tiers or layers are the way to go.
It’s true that when it comes to something as traditional as a wedding, there are those people who will always have something to say. However, when it comes to your special day, it is important to follow your heart and make the right decision.
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