The Complete Guide to Cheese Wedding Cakes in London
1. What is a Cheese Wedding Cake?
A cheese wedding cake is an elegant and savoury alternative to traditional wedding cakes. Instead of layers of sponge and icing, this cake is made of tiers of carefully selected cheeses, stacked in the style of a traditional wedding cake. It is often decorated with fresh fruits, nuts, herbs, edible flowers, and rustic embellishments like wooden boards and ribbons.
Unlike conventional cakes, cheese wedding cakes offer a sophisticated and unique experience, appealing to couples who prefer a savoury option over a sugary dessert. These cakes have become a popular choice in London, where artisanal cheese culture is thriving.
2. Why Choose a Cheese Wedding Cake?
a) Unique and Memorable
A cheese wedding cake is a show-stopper that guests will talk about long after the wedding. It stands out from traditional wedding desserts, making the event more distinctive and personalised.
b) Perfect for Cheese Lovers
For couples who love cheese, this is the ultimate way to incorporate their passion into their wedding day. The variety of cheeses means a range of textures and flavours, from creamy Brie to rich Stilton and tangy Cheddar.
c) Great for Pairing
Unlike sweet cakes, a cheese wedding cake pairs beautifully with a selection of accompaniments, including:
Crackers and bread (rustic sourdough, oatcakes, water biscuits)
Fresh and dried fruits (grapes, figs, apricots)
Chutneys and preserves (red onion marmalade, quince paste)
Nuts and honey
d) Ideal for Dietary Restrictions
Many cheese wedding cakes in the UK are made with vegetarian rennet, making them suitable for vegetarian guests. They can also be tailored to gluten-free or nut-free diets by carefully choosing cheese and accompaniments.
e) A Rustic, Elegant Aesthetic
Rustic weddings are a major trend in the UK, and a cheese wedding cake fits perfectly with country barn, garden, or vineyard wedding themes.
3. Where to Buy a Cheese Wedding Cake in London?
If you’re looking to buy a ready-made cheese wedding cake in London, here are some of the best providers:
You can order a Bespoke Cheese Wedding Cake, at Pearls & Crumbs online. Their high-end wedding cakes are famous for their amazing designs and superb quality, in London. How 'Pearls & Crumbs' Can Make the Best Wedding Cakes in LondonClick here to learn more about it. Or you can try any of the following:
a) The Fine Cheese Co.
Offers pre-stacked cheese wedding cakes with delivery across the UK.
Prices range from £80 (for 20 guests) to £400+ (for large weddings).
b) Paxton & Whitfield
One of London's oldest cheesemongers, specialising in artisan cheese wedding cakes.
Offers customisation options with British and French cheeses.
Prices start at £150 for small gatherings and can go up to £500+ for large events.
c) The Cheese Lady
Creates beautiful cheese towers with detailed decorations.
Their "Mary" and "Catherine" cheese cakes are popular choices for 80-120 guests, priced at £250-£450.
d) La Fromagerie
Provides luxury cheese wedding cakes featuring high-quality farmhouse cheeses.
Custom orders are available based on flavour preferences.
e) Godminster
Famous for its organic and award-winning cheddar-based wedding cakes.
Prices vary based on size and cheese selection.
4. Popular Cheese Combinations for Wedding Cakes
When choosing cheeses for a wedding cake, it’s important to balance textures and flavours. Here are some popular cheese combinations:
a) Classic British Selection
Base Layer: Cheddar (e.g. Montgomery’s Cheddar) – firm and nutty.
Middle Layer: Stilton – creamy and tangy.
Top Layer: Goat’s cheese (e.g. Golden Cross) – soft and earthy.
b) Creamy & Mild Selection
Base Layer: Double Gloucester – rich and buttery.
Middle Layer: Brie – soft and mild.
Top Layer: Camembert – creamy with a slight tang.
c) Mixed Milk Selection
Base Layer: Manchego (sheep’s milk) – firm and slightly sweet.
Middle Layer: Blue cheese (cow’s milk) – bold and pungent.
Top Layer: Goat’s cheese – delicate and fresh.
5. Customising Your Cheese Wedding Cake
A cheese wedding cake can be made even more special with personal touches. Here are some customisation ideas:
Decorations: Use fresh flowers, herbs (rosemary, thyme), or edible gold leaf.
Personalised Cheese Knives: Engrave your wedding date on a cheese knife.
Matching with Drinks: Offer wine, craft beer, or non-alcoholic pairings.
Cheese Labels: Provide small cards with cheese names and descriptions for guests.
Ingredients, Where to Buy in London, and Pricing Breakdown
In this section, we will dive deep into the ingredients required for a cheese wedding cake, where to source high-quality cheese in London, and how much it costs to build a stunning cheese wedding cake.
1. Essential Ingredients for a Cheese Wedding Cake
A cheese wedding cake is all about choosing the right balance of textures and flavours. A well-structured cheese cake typically has three to five layers, with each layer offering something different in taste, texture, and aesthetic appeal.
Here is a detailed ingredient list that covers everything you need:
a) The Cheese Selection (No Alcoholic Ingredients)
Cheese Type | Recommended Cheeses | Characteristics | Price Per kg (£) |
Base Layer (Firm Cheese, Strong Flavour) | Montgomery’s Cheddar, Lincolnshire Poacher, Red Leicester | Hard, nutty, strong | £25-£35 |
Second Layer (Creamy & Buttery Cheese) | Cornish Brie, Tunworth, Somerset Camembert | Soft, mild, rich | £22-£30 |
Third Layer (Blue Cheese, Bold & Tangy) | Colston Bassett Stilton, Stichelton | Strong, creamy, punchy | £28-£38 |
Fourth Layer (Goat’s Cheese, Light & Tangy) | Golden Cross, Ragstone | Earthy, fresh, crumbly | £30-£40 |
Fifth Layer (Aged & Speciality Cheese) | Baron Bigod, Cheshire Appleby | Unique texture, artisanal, distinct flavour | £30-£45 |
Note: The number of layers depends on how many guests you are serving. A three-layer cake is sufficient for a small wedding (30-50 guests), while a five-layer cake is ideal for 100+ guests.
b) Accompaniments for Cheese Wedding Cake
Category | Examples | Price Range (£) |
Crackers & Bread | Sourdough, oatcakes, water biscuits | £4-£7 per pack |
Fresh Fruits | Grapes, figs, apples, pears | £3-£6 per kg |
Dried Fruits | Apricots, dates, cranberries | £5-£10 per 500g |
Nuts | Walnuts, almonds, pecans | £6-£12 per 500g |
Honey & Chutneys | Quince paste, fig chutney, onion marmalade | £5-£8 per jar |
Edible Flowers & Herbs | Rosemary, thyme, violets, marigolds | £3-£8 per bunch |
These accompaniments help create a visually stunning and delicious cheese wedding cake.
2. Where to Buy Cheese & Ingredients in London
London is home to some of the best cheesemongers and artisan food stores in the UK. If you're planning to build a cheese wedding cake yourself, here are the best places to source top-quality cheese and accompaniments:
a) Neal’s Yard Dairy (Covent Garden & Borough Market)
Specialises in British farmhouse cheeses.
Wide selection of handmade Cheddars, Stilton, and soft cheeses.
Offers cheese tasting sessions to help you choose the right flavours.
📍 Location: 17 Shorts Gardens, London WC2H 9AT
💰 Price Range: £25-£40 per kg
b) Paxton & Whitfield (Jermyn Street)
One of the oldest cheesemongers in London (established in 1797).
Perfect for luxury and high-end cheese selections.
Offers cheese gift boxes and pairing recommendations.
📍 Location: 93 Jermyn Street, London SW1Y 6JE
💰 Price Range: £30-£50 per kg
c) La Fromagerie (Marylebone & Highbury)
Specialises in French, Italian, and British cheeses.
Offers a wide selection of goat’s cheese and soft-ripened cheeses.
Has a cheese room where you can taste before buying.
📍 Location: 2-6 Moxon St, London W1U 4EW
💰 Price Range: £22-£45 per kg
d) Borough Market
Multiple cheese stalls, including Gorwydd Caerphilly, Chegworth Valley, and Kappacasein Dairy.
Perfect for finding small-batch artisanal cheeses.
Also great for fruits, nuts, and chutneys to accompany your cake.
📍 Location: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL
💰 Price Range: £20-£45 per kg
3. Cost Breakdown for a Cheese Wedding Cake in London
To estimate the cost of making a cheese wedding cake, let’s break it down based on the number of guests:
Option 1: Small Wedding (30-50 guests, 3 layers)
Total Cheese Needed: 4-5 kg
Estimated Cheese Cost: £90-£150
Extras (Crackers, Fruits, Chutneys, Decorations): £40-£60
Total Estimated Cost: £130-£210
Option 2: Medium Wedding (80-100 guests, 4 layers)
Total Cheese Needed: 7-8 kg
Estimated Cheese Cost: £180-£250
Extras: £60-£90
Total Estimated Cost: £240-£340
Option 3: Large Wedding (150+ guests, 5 layers)
Total Cheese Needed: 10-12 kg
Estimated Cheese Cost: £300-£450
Extras: £80-£120
Total Estimated Cost: £380-£570
💡 Tip: If you want to save money, consider mixing premium cheeses with more affordable options or buying from wholesale markets.
4. Custom Cheese Wedding Cake Orders in London
If you're not comfortable assembling the cake yourself, many London-based cheesemongers offer custom cheese wedding cakes.
a) The Cheese Society
Offers custom-designed cheese wedding cakes based on guest count.
Prices range from £100 for small cakes to £500+ for large cakes.
📍 Online Store Only
💰 Price Range: £100-£500
b) Godminster
Specialises in cheddar-based wedding cakes.
Provides personalised ribbons and decorations.
📍 Online & Retail Stockists in London
💰 Price Range: £80-£400
Key Takeaways:
High-quality cheese is available at Neal’s Yard Dairy, Paxton & Whitfield, La Fromagerie, and Borough Market.
Cheese pricing varies from £22-£50 per kg, depending on rarity and quality.
Total cost for a cheese wedding cake can range from £130 (small) to £570 (large weddings).
You can custom-order a cake from The Cheese Society or Godminster if DIY isn’t an option.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Cheese Wedding Cake at Home
Now that we’ve covered what a cheese wedding cake is, where to buy ingredients, and the estimated costs, it's time to dive into the complete DIY recipe. This part will guide you through assembling, decorating, and serving your homemade cheese wedding cake for a stunning and memorable wedding centrepiece.
1. Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before starting, gather the following tools and materials:
a) Essential Tools for Assembling the Cake
Cake Stand or Wooden Board – A sturdy base to hold the weight of the cheeses.
Long Cheese Knife – For trimming cheese layers if necessary.
Cake Dowels or Straws – To support larger cakes (optional for tall cakes).
Cake Spacers (Small Discs or Ribbons) – Helps separate layers neatly.
Ribbon or Twine – For wrapping each tier for a rustic look.
b) Decoration Materials
Fresh Fruits – Grapes, figs, pears, apples.
Dried Fruits – Apricots, cranberries, dates.
Edible Flowers – Marigolds, violets, rose petals.
Herbs – Rosemary, thyme, bay leaves.
Chutneys & Honey – Fig chutney, onion marmalade, honey drizzle.
Crackers & Breads – Oatcakes, water biscuits, sourdough slices.
💡 Tip: Pre-wash and dry fruits, flowers, and herbs before decorating!
2. Step-by-Step Recipe for Assembling a Cheese Wedding Cake
Now, let’s build your cheese wedding cake in an easy-to-follow process:
Step 1: Plan the Cheese Structure
Decide the number of layers based on your guest count:
30-50 guests → 3 layers
80-100 guests → 4 layers
150+ guests → 5 layers
Stacking order should go from largest to smallest, ensuring stability.
Example 4-Tier Structure:
Base Layer (Largest, Firm Cheese) – Montgomery Cheddar (Hard, ~3kg)
Second Layer (Soft & Creamy Cheese) – Cornish Brie (~2kg)
Third Layer (Blue Cheese, Bold Flavour) – Stilton (~1.5kg)
Top Layer (Smallest, Goat’s Cheese) – Golden Cross (~500g)
📌 Tip: Round cheeses stack best, but square or irregular shapes can add a rustic touch!
Step 2: Prepare the Cheeses
Remove cheeses from the fridge at least 2 hours before assembling to bring them to room temperature.
If needed, trim the rind slightly to fit layers neatly.
For soft cheeses like Brie, place a parchment paper disc underneath for stability.
If stacking 4+ layers, insert cake dowels or thick straws in the bottom layers for support.
Step 3: Stack the Cheese Tiers
Start with the largest cheese wheel at the bottom. Place it firmly on the cake stand or board.
Add a small layer of parchment paper between each tier to prevent sticking.
Gently place the second cheese layer on top, aligning it centrally.
Repeat with the third and fourth layers, ensuring each cheese tier sits evenly and securely.
If necessary, use small wooden spacers for added stability.
💡 Tip: Use a cake turntable to rotate while stacking for an even, well-balanced look!
Step 4: Decorate the Cheese Cake
Time to make your cake visually stunning!
Wrap each tier with ribbon or twine for a rustic aesthetic.
Arrange fresh grapes and figs around the base of the cake.
Layer dried apricots and nuts between the tiers for texture.
Scatter edible flowers on top for elegance.
Tuck in fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs around the edges.
📌 Tip: Less is more! Keep decorations natural and elegant without overcrowding the cheese.
3. How to Serve the Cheese Wedding Cake
Once your masterpiece is ready, serving it properly is key! Here’s how to do it:
a) Cutting the Cheese Wedding Cake
Use a large, sharp cheese knife for hard cheeses (Cheddar, Stilton).
A soft cheese knife (or wire cutter) works best for Brie and Goat’s cheese.
Cut small wedges or cubes to make it easy for guests to pick.
Offer cheese markers or small labels so guests know what they are tasting.
b) Pairing the Cheese Cake with Drinks
A cheese wedding cake isn’t complete without the right drink pairings!
Cheese Type | Best Drink Pairing (Alcohol-Free Options Available) |
Cheddar (Firm & Nutty) | Apple cider, Sparkling Elderflower |
Brie & Camembert (Creamy) | Sparkling water, Grape juice |
Stilton (Strong & Blue) | Blackcurrant cordial, Pear juice |
Goat’s Cheese (Tangy & Fresh) | Green tea, Lemonade |
💡 Tip: Serve drinks chilled to enhance the cheese’s flavour!
c) What to Serve Alongside the Cake
Crackers & Bread: Arrange oatcakes, sourdough, and water biscuits on wooden boards.
Chutneys & Honey: Offer fig chutney, red onion marmalade, and local honey in small dishes.
Fruit Platters: Have a separate platter of fresh fruits like grapes and figs for guests to add to their plates.
Cheese Knives & Plates: Provide individual cheese knives and eco-friendly plates for self-service.
📌 Tip: Set up a self-serve cheese station with small signs describing each cheese!
4. Storing and Transporting the Cheese Wedding Cake
If you're assembling the cake in advance or need to transport it to the wedding venue, follow these tips:
a) Storing the Cake Before the Event
Wrap each cheese layer individually in wax paper or cheese paper to prevent drying.
Store in a cool, dark place (like a pantry) instead of a fridge (to avoid sweating).
If storing overnight, keep in the fridge but remove at least 4 hours before serving to bring to room temperature.
b) Transporting the Cake to the Venue
If moving the cake in tiers, transport each cheese separately in a cool box and stack on-site.
If fully assembled, place in a sturdy cake box with padding to prevent shifting.
Keep the decorations separate and add them once the cake is at the venue.
📌 Tip: Avoid direct sunlight at outdoor weddings to prevent cheese from melting!
5. Final Checklist for a Perfect Cheese Wedding Cake
✔ Cheese layers chosen and balanced in flavour
✔ Stacked securely with parchment paper and spacers
✔ Decorated naturally with fresh fruits, nuts, and herbs
✔ Crackers, bread, and chutneys arranged separately
✔ Cheese markers and serving knives provided✔ Properly stored and transported to the venue
A cheese wedding cake is a beautiful, delicious, and unique alternative to traditional wedding cakes. Whether you’re buying one from a London cheesemonger or making it yourself at home, it’s a show-stopping centrepiece that will wow your guests.
With the right cheese selection, elegant decorations, and perfect pairings, you can create a memorable and Instagram-worthy wedding feature that reflects your love for cheese. 🧀💍
How 'Pearls & Crumbs' Can Make the Best Wedding Cakes in London
If you're searching for the best wedding cakes in London, look no further than Pearls & Crumbs. Based in West London, Pearls & Crumbs is a luxury bespoke cake business that specialises in handcrafted, elegant, and fully customised wedding cakes. Whether you want a classic tiered cake, a modern minimalist design, or something uniquely artistic, Pearls & Crumbs can bring your vision to life with precision, creativity, and top-tier ingredients.
In this article, we’ll explore why Pearls & Crumbs is the best choice for wedding cakes in London, what sets them apart from other cake makers, and how they create show-stopping cakes that not only look incredible but taste divine.
1. Why Pearls & Crumbs is the Best Choice for Wedding Cakes in London
a) Bespoke Wedding Cake Designs That Reflect Your Style
Your wedding cake should be as unique as your love story. At Pearls & Crumbs, every cake is designed to match your wedding theme, colour palette, and personality. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic floral cake, an elegant white-tiered masterpiece, or a luxurious gold-dusted showpiece, the team at Pearls & Crumbs will tailor every detail to your preferences.
What Makes Their Wedding Cakes Stand Out?
Custom Designs: Each cake is handcrafted based on your ideas and inspirations.
Artistic Flair: The cakes are not just desserts; they are works of art.
Personal Touches: From personalised monograms to intricate sugar flowers, every cake tells a story.
💡 Tip: Book a consultation to discuss your ideas and let the experts at Pearls & Crumbs create a design that perfectly suits your big day!
b) High-Quality Ingredients for an Unforgettable Taste
At Pearls & Crumbs, taste is just as important as aesthetics. Every cake is made from premium-quality ingredients, ensuring a delicious, fresh, and unforgettable experience.
What Ingredients Set Pearls & Crumbs Apart?
Organic Free-Range Eggs: For a rich and moist cake texture.
Real Butter & Fresh Cream: No artificial substitutes—just pure, creamy goodness.
Belgian Chocolate & Madagascar Vanilla: For deep, indulgent flavours.
Seasonal Fruits & Handmade Fillings: Ensuring natural sweetness and freshness.
Unlike mass-produced wedding cakes that can taste overly sweet or dry, Pearls & Crumbs ensures a perfect balance of flavours and textures. Their cakes are known for being light, moist, and full of flavour—exactly what you want in a wedding cake!
c) A Wide Range of Flavours to Suit Every Taste
One of the standout features of Pearls & Crumbs is their extensive menu of wedding cake flavours. Whether you prefer a traditional sponge cake or something more adventurous, they have options for every palate.
Most Popular Wedding Cake Flavours at Pearls & Crumbs
Flavour | Description |
Classic Vanilla Bean | A timeless favourite with rich vanilla buttercream. |
Belgian Chocolate & Ganache | A decadent, rich chocolate cake with a smooth ganache. |
Lemon & Elderflower | A zesty and floral flavour, perfect for spring weddings. |
Raspberry & White Chocolate | A sweet and tangy combination loved by many. |
Red Velvet & Cream Cheese | A deep red, soft cake with a velvety texture. |
Almond & Honey | A nutty and subtly sweet option for something different. |
Vegan & Gluten-Free Options | Delicious cakes catering to dietary restrictions. |
💡 Tip: If you’re not sure which flavour to choose, Pearls & Crumbs offers cake tasting sessions so you can sample and select your favourite combination!
d) Stunning Decorations and Attention to Detail
Presentation matters when it comes to wedding cakes, and Pearls & Crumbs are masters of cake decoration. Whether you prefer a modern minimalist cake, a rustic semi-naked cake, or a fully adorned floral masterpiece, they can craft it to perfection.
Decoration Styles Available
Sugar Flowers & Fresh Florals – Handmade sugar roses, orchids, or edible fresh flowers.
Gold Leaf & Metallic Accents – Elegant, luxurious touches for a glamorous cake.
Hand-Painted Designs – Intricate detailing for an artistic cake.
Pearls, Ribbons & Lace – Classic embellishments for a sophisticated look.
Every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure that your wedding cake is as breathtaking as the rest of your wedding décor.
2. Seamless Ordering, Customisation, and Delivery
a) The Simple & Stress-Free Ordering Process
Planning a wedding is already overwhelming, so ordering a cake should be easy and stress-free. Pearls & Crumbs offers a straightforward and convenient process for couples looking to order their wedding cake.
Step-by-Step Process to Order Your Wedding Cake
Book a Consultation – Discuss your vision, flavours, and budget.
Cake Tasting Session – Try different flavours before making a final decision.
Design Finalisation – The team will create a sketch of your cake.
Baking & Decoration – The cake is made fresh with precision and care.
Delivery & Setup – The cake is safely transported and assembled at your venue.
💡 Tip: Book your wedding cake at least 2-3 months in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak wedding season!
b) Wedding Cake Delivery Across London
Pearls & Crumbs ensures that your wedding cake is delivered safely and set up professionally at your venue. They handle everything from transportation to final placement, so you don’t have to worry about anything on your big day.
Why Their Delivery Service Stands Out?
✅ Temperature-Controlled Transport – Ensures the cake remains fresh and intact.
✅ Professional Setup at the Venue – No need to worry about assembly.
✅ Custom Display Stands Available – To complement your wedding theme.
Whether your wedding is in central London, West London, or surrounding areas, Pearls & Crumbs guarantees on-time, hassle-free cake delivery.
3. Why London Brides & Grooms Love Pearls & Crumbs
Pearls & Crumbs has received rave reviews from happy couples who have chosen them for their wedding cakes. Here’s what some of their satisfied clients have to say:
🌟 “Our wedding cake was absolutely stunning! Pearls & Crumbs captured our vision perfectly and made a cake that was both breathtaking and delicious.” – Betty, London
🌟 “The attention to detail was incredible, and the cake tasted amazing. So many of our guests asked where we got our wedding cake from!” – Liz, West London
🌟 “From start to finish, the team was professional, creative, and accommodating. Our wedding cake was truly the centrepiece of our reception.” – James & Olivia, Richmond
So Why Pearls & Crumbs is the Best Wedding Cake Maker in London
If you want a wedding cake that is customised, delicious, visually stunning, and made with the highest-quality ingredients, Pearls & Crumbs is the perfect choice. With their expert craftsmanship, wide range of flavours, and seamless ordering process, they have established themselves as one of the best bespoke cake designers in London.
💡 Key Reasons to Choose Pearls & Crumbs for Your Wedding Cake:
✔ Bespoke, fully customisable wedding cake designs
✔ Premium ingredients for unmatched flavour and quality
✔ Diverse flavour options, including vegan & gluten-free cakes
✔ Stunning decoration & attention to detail
✔ Easy ordering, professional delivery, and venue setup
📌 Ready to order your dream wedding cake?
Visit Pearls & Crumbs to book your consultation today! 🎂✨
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