What size tiers are wedding cakes?

Answered by Stephen Mosley

When it comes to wedding cakes, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The size of the tiers can vary depending on the couple’s preferences, the number of guests they are expecting, and their budget. However, I have noticed that the most popular size for wedding cakes is a three-tier cake with a base tier of 10 inches in diameter and a top tier of 6 inches in diameter.

The base tier, which is 10 inches in diameter, provides a solid foundation for the cake. It is usually the largest tier and can accommodate a significant number of servings. This tier is perfect for couples who are expecting a large number of guests or who want to have leftovers for their loved ones to take home.

The top tier, on the other hand, is much smaller, with a diameter of 6 inches. This tier is often referred to as the “cutting cake” and is traditionally saved by the couple to enjoy on their first anniversary. It is also a great option for couples who want to have the traditional cake-cutting moment but don’t need a large cake for all their guests.

Each tier of the cake is typically around 5 inches tall. This height allows for a visually pleasing cake with defined layers. It also provides enough space for fillings, frosting, and decorations, making the cake not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Now, let’s talk about the number of servings that a three-tier wedding cake of this size can yield. On average, a three-tier cake with a 10-inch base tier and a 6-inch top tier can serve around 100-110 generous servings. These servings are usually enough for most weddings, especially if there are other dessert options available.

However, some couples may be expecting a larger number of guests, typically around 150. In such cases, they often opt for a four-tier cake. To accommodate this larger guest count, the couple may choose to have two dummy tiers on top of the 10-inch and 6-inch tiers. Dummy tiers are non-edible cake forms that are decorated to match the rest of the cake. These dummy tiers help create the illusion of a larger cake while saving on cost and reducing the amount of actual cake needed.

The size of wedding cake tiers can vary depending on the couple’s preferences, the number of guests, and the budget. The most popular size is a three-tier cake with a 10-inch base tier and a 6-inch top tier. This size typically yields around 100-110 servings. However, for larger guest counts, couples may opt for a four-tier cake with two dummy tiers. Ultimately, the size of the wedding cake should be chosen based on the couple’s needs and desires for their special day.