Round cakes will forever be classics, but 2025 belongs to the rectangle. Clean lines, modern edges, and a totally fresh silhouette… it’s the cake equivalent of a stylish reboot.
Modern, minimal, completely chic
Rectangular cakes just look contemporary. They photograph beautifully, suit almost any theme, and bring that polished, editorial feel couples are loving right now. Honestly? We can see this trend rolling right into 2026 (at least, we hope so).
Photo: Pinterest
A dream for cake artists
The long, flat surface is basically a mood board waiting to happen:
soft brushstrokes
subtle metallics
bold geometric patterns
delicate florals
More space means more creativity.
Photo: Pinterest
Practical in the best way
Neat slices. Easy serving. Zero fuss. If you have a big guest list, the rectangle has your back. And your caterer will thank you.
Your wedding cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that reflects your style and sets the tone for your celebration. As we step into 2025, South African couples are embracing diverse cake trends, from sculptural designs to traditional flavors with a modern twist. Whether you’re looking to order a bespoke creation or embark on a DIY adventure, here’s your comprehensive guide to wedding cakes in South Africa this year.
Trending Wedding Cake Styles in 2025
1. Sculptural & Artistic Cakes Sculptural cakes are making waves in 2025, transforming wedding desserts into edible art.These cakes feature intricate designs, such as floating tiers, marble-inspired textures, and metallic accents, often resembling museum-worthy sculptures.Techniques like acrylic risers and sugar florals are commonly used to achieve these artistic effects.Brides
Sourced: Pinterest
2. Square & Geometric Designs Square-tiered cakes are gaining popularity for their clean lines and modern aesthetic.Couples are opting for geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and unique shapes to make a bold statement.These cakes are often paired with flavors like lemon-raspberry or red velvet-dulce de leche.Bridebook
Sourced: Canva
3. Sheet Cakes with Style Sheet cakes are emerging as a practical yet stylish alternative to traditional tiered cakes.They’re easier to transport, withstand heat better, and are simpler to cut.Decorative elements like Lambeth piping, cherries, and personalized messages are used to enhance their appearance.Brides
Sourced: The Knot
4. Dome Cakes Dome cakes offer a unique and visually striking option for couples seeking a non-traditional dessert.These cakes are often decorated artistically and serve as a showpiece at the wedding.While they may be less expensive than tiered cakes, their size and shape limit the number of servings and flavor options.cakematters.co.za
Sourced: Instagram
Wedding Cake Prices in South Africa
Understanding the cost of wedding cakes is crucial for budgeting. Here’s an overview of typical prices:
Prices range from R6,360 to R7,084, depending on design and customization.honeybeebaker.co.za
Picture Cakes:
A5 size (20cm x 15cm): R390
A4 size (30cm x 20cm): R680
3D and Shaped Cakes:
Prices vary; it’s best to inquire directly with bakers for quotes.
Note: Prices can vary based on location, complexity, and customization. It’s advisable to request quotes from multiple vendors to compare.
DIY Wedding Cakes: A Personal Touch
If you’re considering making your own wedding cake, here are some tips:
Start Early: Begin planning and practicing well in advance to ensure you’re comfortable with the process.cakesforafrica.com
Choose Simple Designs: Opt for designs that are manageable and within your skill level.
Use Quality Ingredients: Ensure you use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste and texture.
Consider a Trial Run: Bake a test cake to work out any issues before the big day.
Seek Help: Enlist friends or family to assist with decoration and setup.
DIY cakes can be a cost-effective and meaningful option, especially for smaller weddings.
Popular Cake Flavors in South Africa
While traditional flavors like vanilla and chocolate remain popular, couples are exploring unique options to delight their guests. Some trending flavors include:
Pink Champagne: A celebratory flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Lemon-Raspberry: A refreshing and tangy combination.
Grand Marnier: A citrus-flavored cake with a touch of sophistication.
Ginger Spice: A warm and aromatic choice, perfect for winter weddings.
Banana Foster: A rich and indulgent flavor with caramel notes.
Honey-Lavender: A floral and fragrant option for a unique twist.
Ordering vs. DIY: Which Is Right for You?
Aspect
Ordering a Cake
DIY Cake
Customization
High; professional decorators available
Limited to your skills and resources
Cost
Higher; varies based on design and size
Lower; cost of ingredients and tools
Time Commitment
Minimal; cake is ready for pickup/delivery
Significant; requires planning and effort
Stress Level
Lower; professionals handle the details
Higher; responsibility on you
Personal Touch
Moderate; some customization possible
High; reflects your personal style
Consider your budget, time, and the level of personalization you desire when making your decision.
Your wedding cake is a reflection of your personality and style. Whether you choose a traditional tiered cake, a modern sculptural design, or a homemade creation, ensure it aligns with your vision for the day. Remember to consider factors like guest count, flavor preferences, and budget when making your choice. With the right cake, you’ll add a sweet touch to your special day.
Micro weddings will continue to dominate in 2021. While COVID-19 vaccines are being rolled out across the world, we are not quite out of the woods yet and it’s best to be safe than sorry.
For those planning to marry in 2021, a micro wedding or an elopement is the perfect option. However, with such a small guestlist there is no need for a traditional large wedding cake.
Skip the tiers and go for a small, single-tier cake that caters to your reduced guests. This will also save you some money as well as prevent wastage.
Fear not, you can still have fun with the design on a small cake. Here are some stunning convections we are loving:
Pink is one of the most romantic colours out there. The innocent sister of sultry red, pink shades are soft and subtle yet powerful at the same time.
This hue is perfect for spring and summer weddings, as it complements a lighter colour scheme. Pair with gold for a more regal feel, or go bold with reds for a unique finish. Of course, using varying shades of pink is also always sweet.
Here are some pretty in pink cakes to inspire your own:
Queen Elizabeth’s wedding cake earned itself the nickname “the 10 000 mile cake” after many ingredients had to be flown into England. This is because the big day took place shortly after WWII, and rationing was still in place.
However, this nickname has a double meaning, as the cake travelled far distances after the wedding as well.
The wedding cake made for The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh’s 1947 wedding was a2.7 metre, 226 kg fruitcake, which featured four tiers and produced 2 000 slices that went to the wedding guests as well as nearby charities and organisations.
After the big day, one layer was preserved for the future christening of their first child, and another layer was sent to Australia to give thanks for the dried fruit flown in from the area. It has just been revealed that a slice of the wedding cake was also sent all the way to Nigeria.
UK-based charity Lepra, an international charity working to beat leprosy, recently tweeted out that their patron, The Queen, helped sponsor children affected by leprosy through Lepra’s child adoption programme. She adopted one such girl named Budesta in 1956, thus ensuring she could continue her education and live a life of hope and freedom.
The Queen’s official Twitter account responded and said that she also sent a slice of the wedding cake to the girl guides at the Itu leprosy settlement in Nigeria.
? ? The Queen also sent a slice of wedding cake to the Girl Guides at the Itu leprosy settlement in Nigeria in 1947, as a gesture after her wedding to The Duke of Edinburgh! https://t.co/1hi0R1HJoC
Not one for wedding cake? There are so many unique alternatives that will please your sweet tooth. Among them is the macaron tower, a luxurious treat that stands proud.
The beauty of macarons, like cake, is that it comes in so many delicious flavours. Match your tower to your wedding colours for synchronicity. While macaron towers are perfect on their own, but those wanting an extra special touch can add florals to elevate it.
Macarons don’t come cheap, neither do wedding cakes. This may be a more affordable alternative for those lacking a big budget,
Here are some terrific towers to inspire your own.
The most romantic day of the year is quickly approaching. Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love in all its forms, making it the perfect day for a wedding.
If you’d like to incorporate themes from this day into your wedding, the easiest way to do so is with your colour scheme. Red, pink and white are classic Valentine’s Day colours because they represent passion and romance.
Of course, the heart shape and Cupid’s arrow are both eternal symbols of this holiday too. Incorporating these shapes are a little more on the nose, but still super sweet.
Here are some wedding cakes full of the Valentine’s Day spirit:
As the COVID-19 pandemic contonies, wedding vendors are looking for easier ways to continue hosting events in a safer way. One easy way is to eliminate crowding and contact.
Throw the cake out of the window and opt for individually-sized desserts. These single portions are easier to serve and reduce the need for multiple hands to touch a knife in order to cut a cake, which is perfect in these times.
These individual cakes ar essentially cupcakes, except they are not served in cupcake holders and replicate the look of a full cake. No need to skip your original wedding cake vision, you can still stick with the colours and style although on a smaller scale.
It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day, it’s a new trend. The wedding world is constantly evolving, and what was hot a few years ago can easily be replaced.
Whether you want to be on-trend or simply enjoy staying abreast with the latest styles, it’s a good idea to become familiar with the designs predicted to be super popular for wedding cakes in 2021.
While it may change in size, taste and appearance, cakes will always be a wedding tradition. Here are the styles expected to be big in 2021.
Gesture cakes / skinny cakes
Gesture cakes are mini, affordable cakes that still hold the essence of tradition but won’t create a massive hole in your bank account. It’s generally the size of a normal cake one may have at a birthday party. For those having micro-weddings, this option is perfect. With the COVID-19 pandemic, couples will have to downscale their weddings so it makes perfect sense to opt for a smaller cake as well. You won’t have a ton of cake go to waste and get to save some money in the process.
Naked cakes have been all the rage for the last few years, and it seems this trend will not leave. Rustic-inspired cakes adorned with subtle floral detail and greenery will continue to be massively popular, and reflect the paired-down wedding experience of 2021.
While simple often reigns supreme, we also expect a massive resurgence of 1920s inspired Art Deco cakes. Think geometric shapes, bold lines and rich colours. Darker hues like black, navy and gold work best for this trend.
Throw the cake out of the window and opt for individually-sized desserts. These single portions are easier to serve and reduce the need for multiple hands to touch a knife in order to cut a cake, which is perfect in these times.
A wedding is a happy, fabulous and colourful time and nothing reflects joy as well as cupcakes. You don’t have to have a wedding cake if that is not your jam.
Cupcakes are easy, more practical and might be preferable for those who would like to take them home. It also makes more sense in a COVID-19-era to offer guests individual desserts they can pick by hand instead of all sharing from one cake.
Here are some delightful cupcake-inspirations to get your mouth watering.
