Simple Wedding Cakes : A Guide to Affordable & Elegant Choices
When planning a wedding, one of the most exciting (and sometimes stressful) decisions is choosing the perfect wedding cake. Traditionally, wedding cakes have been elaborate, multi-tiered, and often come with a hefty price tag. However, in recent years, simple wedding cakes have gained immense popularity among couples in London. Whether you’re planning a minimalist wedding, working within a budget, or just prefer a no-fuss cake, there are plenty of affordable, elegant, and delicious alternatives to the traditional wedding cake.
A simple wedding cake doesn’t mean a compromise on beauty or taste. In fact, some of the most charming and stylish cakes are those that embrace minimalism, using fresh ingredients and subtle decorations to create something truly special. From classic buttercream cakes to modern naked cakes and even unique, no-bake options, London offers a wide range of possibilities for couples looking for affordable and elegant wedding cake solutions.
Why Are Simple Wedding Cakes Trending in London?
The trend towards simpler wedding cakes is influenced by several factors:
Budget-Conscious Couples: Weddings in London can be incredibly expensive, with the average cost of a wedding reaching over £20,000. Many couples are looking for ways to cut costs, and a simple wedding cake is an excellent way to save without sacrificing quality.
Minimalist Aesthetic: Modern weddings are moving away from overly decorated, fondant-heavy cakes and embracing a more natural, rustic look. Cakes with semi-naked frosting, fresh flowers, and seasonal fruits are in high demand.
DIY & Personalisation: Many couples are opting to bake their own wedding cakes or commission smaller, independent bakeries to create personalised, handcrafted cakes. This trend allows for more creativity, affordability, and uniqueness.
Alternative Ingredients & Dietary Needs: More people in London are looking for healthier, vegan, or allergen-friendly cakes. Simple wedding cakes often use fewer artificial ingredients, making them more inclusive and accessible.
What to Expect in This Guide?
We’ll explore three simple wedding cake ideas that are perfect for London couples:
✅ Chocolate Cornflake Cake – A fun, nostalgic no-bake cake with a crispy chocolatey texture. Ideal for informal, quirky weddings.
✅ Vanilla Buttercream Naked Cake – A timeless, elegant choice that’s easy to make and perfect for minimalist weddings.
✅ Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake – A light, zesty, and refreshing cake, ideal for summer weddings.
Each section will provide:
The key features of the cake and why it works for a wedding.
A detailed recipe with easy-to-follow steps.
Where to buy ingredients in London at affordable prices.
Simple wedding decoration ideas to enhance the cake’s presentation.
If you’re looking for a stylish, budget-friendly, and delicious wedding cake in London, this guide is for you! Let’s dive into the world of simple wedding cakes and find the perfect one for your big day. 🍰✨
Chocolate Cornflake Cake – A Budget-Friendly Crunchy Delight
Why Chocolate Cornflake Cake is a Great Wedding Option
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, budget-friendly, and unique wedding cake, Chocolate Cornflake Cake is an absolute winner. It’s a mix of chocolatey richness and crispy texture, making it a fun yet elegant option for a laid-back wedding.
Key Features:
No Baking Required – A simple, no-oven-needed cake.
Affordable Ingredients – Costs significantly less than a traditional wedding cake.
Crowd-Pleasing – A nostalgic treat that’s loved by adults and kids alike.
Customisable – Can be shaped into layers or individual mini cakes.
Ingredients & Where to Buy in London
All ingredients are widely available in supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, ASDA, Waitrose, and budget stores like Lidl & Aldi.
Main Ingredients & Prices (Approximate for Jan 2025)
Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Price (GBP) | Where to Buy |
Cornflakes | 300g | £1.50 | Tesco, ASDA |
Dark Chocolate (50%+) | 300g | £2.00 | Waitrose, Lidl |
Golden Syrup | 150g | £1.20 | Sainsbury’s, Tesco |
Unsalted Butter | 200g | £2.50 | Aldi, M&S |
Icing Sugar | 100g | £1.00 | Tesco, ASDA |
Edible Gold Leaf (Optional) | 1 sheet | £5.00 | Cake decorating shops, Amazon |
How to Make Chocolate Cornflake Cake at Home
This recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring no special baking skills.
Step 1: Preparing the Chocolate Mixture
Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl.
Add the butter and golden syrup.
Melt the mixture over a double boiler (or microwave in 20-second bursts), stirring frequently.
Once smooth, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mixing in the Cornflakes
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the cornflakes.
Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture over them.
Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring even coating without breaking too many cornflakes.
Step 3: Shaping the Cake
Line a round cake tin (8-10 inches) with parchment paper.
Pour the coated cornflake mixture into the tin and press down firmly with a spoon.
Optional: If making a layered cake, repeat this step with another batch.
Step 4: Setting & Decorating
Place the tin in the fridge for at least 2 hours until firm.
Once set, remove the cake from the tin and dust with icing sugar for a snowy effect.
Decorate with edible gold leaf or melted white chocolate drizzle for an elegant touch.
Presentation Ideas for a Wedding
Layered Cornflake Cake: Stack two or three layers with a thin spread of chocolate ganache in between.
Mini Cornflake Cakes: Use a muffin tin to create individual portions for guests.
Floral Garnish: Decorate with edible flowers for a rustic wedding theme.
Why This Cake is Perfect for a London Wedding
Easy to Transport: No risk of melting like buttercream cakes.
Affordable & Unique: A great choice for budget-conscious couples.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, saving time on the big day.
Vanilla Buttercream Naked Cake – The Classic Minimalist Choice
If you want a timeless yet simple wedding cake, the Vanilla Buttercream Naked Cake is a perfect choice. It’s elegant, easy to make, and budget-friendly, making it ideal for couples who prefer a classic but unfussy wedding cake.
Why Choose a Vanilla Buttercream Naked Cake for a Wedding?
Minimalist Aesthetic – The “naked” style (where the sponge is partly visible) gives a rustic, natural look.
Delicious Yet Light – Vanilla sponge is soft, fluffy, and not overly sweet.
Easy to Customise – You can add fresh flowers, berries, or gold accents for a stylish touch.
Great for Any Season – Works for both summer and winter weddings with different garnishes.
Ingredients & Where to Buy in London
This cake requires basic pantry ingredients, all of which are available at major supermarkets and baking supply stores in London.
Main Ingredients & Prices (Approximate for Jan 2025)
Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Price (GBP) | Where to Buy |
Plain Flour | 400g | £1.50 | Tesco, ASDA |
Caster Sugar | 300g | £2.00 | Sainsbury’s, Waitrose |
Unsalted Butter | 250g | £2.50 | Aldi, M&S |
Free-Range Eggs | 4 large | £2.00 | Tesco, M&S |
Baking Powder | 2 tsp | £1.00 | Tesco, Lidl |
Vanilla Extract | 2 tsp | £3.50 | Waitrose, M&S |
Milk | 150ml | £1.20 | Sainsbury’s, Tesco |
Icing Sugar (for buttercream) | 500g | £2.50 | ASDA, Tesco |
Fresh Berries (optional) | 200g | £3.00 | Borough Market, Waitrose |
💡 Budget Tip: If you're looking to save money, buy ingredients from Lidl, Aldi, or local markets for fresh produce at lower prices.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make a Vanilla Buttercream Naked Cake
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / Gas Mark 4.
Prepare the Cake Tins – Grease and line two 8-inch round cake tins with baking paper.
Cream the Butter and Sugar – In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the Eggs One by One – Mix well after each addition to keep the batter smooth.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients – Sift the flour and baking powder, then gradually fold it into the mixture.
Add Vanilla and Milk – Stir in the vanilla extract and milk to create a smooth, pourable batter.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
Divide the Batter evenly between the two cake tins.
Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes – Leave in the tins for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Make the Perfect Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Beat 250g butter until smooth and creamy (about 5 minutes).
Add 500g icing sugar in small amounts, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in 2 tsp vanilla extract for extra flavour.
If too thick, add 2 tbsp milk for a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Assembling the Naked Cake
Trim the Cake Layers – Use a sharp knife to remove the domed tops for a flat surface.
Stack the Cake – Place one layer on a cake board, spread a generous amount of buttercream, then top with the second layer.
Apply a Thin Crumb Coat – Using a spatula, spread a thin layer of buttercream all over the cake, allowing some sponge to show through.
Chill for 15 Minutes – This helps set the crumb coat.
Wedding Decoration Ideas for a Naked Cake
Fresh Berries – Raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries add a natural, romantic touch.
Edible Flowers – Use rose petals, violets, or pansies for a soft floral theme.
Dusting of Icing Sugar – A simple dusting gives a snowy effect for winter weddings.
Gold Leaf Accents – Adds an elegant luxury feel without much effort.
💡 Pro Tip: If making ahead, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Why This Cake is Perfect for a London Wedding
✔ Simple Yet Elegant – Perfect for rustic, boho, or classic wedding themes.
✔ Cost-Effective – A fraction of the price of a store-bought wedding cake.
✔ Light & Fluffy – Guests won’t feel too full after eating a slice.
✔ Beginner-Friendly – No fancy piping skills needed, just a spatula!
Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake – A Zesty, Refreshing Alternative
For couples who want a light, tangy, and refreshing wedding cake, the Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake is a fantastic option. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for summer weddings or couples who prefer a citrusy twist over heavy chocolate or buttercream cakes.
Why Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake is a Great Wedding Choice?
Refreshing & Light – The tangy lemon syrup keeps the cake moist and fresh.
Minimal Decoration Needed – A simple glaze or fresh lemon slices can make it wedding-worthy.
Perfect for Small Weddings – Great for intimate receptions or as a secondary cake.
Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients.
Ingredients & Where to Buy in London
You can buy these ingredients in all major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, ASDA, Aldi, and Lidl.
Main Ingredients & Prices (Approximate for Jan 2025)
Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Price (GBP) | Where to Buy |
Self-Raising Flour | 250g | £1.50 | Tesco, Lidl |
Caster Sugar | 200g | £1.80 | Sainsbury’s, Aldi |
Unsalted Butter | 200g | £2.50 | Waitrose, ASDA |
Free-Range Eggs | 3 large | £1.80 | Tesco, M&S |
Fresh Lemons | 3 | £1.50 | Local Markets, Tesco |
Icing Sugar (for glaze) | 150g | £1.50 | Tesco, ASDA |
Milk | 50ml | £1.00 | Lidl, Sainsbury’s |
💡 Budget Tip: Buy lemons from local markets or bulk from wholesalers to save money if making multiple cakes.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make a Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
Preheat the Oven – Set to 180°C (160°C fan) / Gas Mark 4.
Prepare the Loaf Tin – Grease a 9x5-inch loaf tin and line with baking paper.
Cream the Butter and Sugar – Beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
Add Eggs One by One – Mix well after each addition to prevent curdling.
Fold in Flour – Sift in self-raising flour, folding gently to keep air in the mixture.
Add Lemon Zest and Milk – Stir in the zest of 2 lemons and milk for a soft texture.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
Pour the Batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top.
Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
Cool in the Tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
How to Make the Perfect Lemon Drizzle Syrup
Juice 2 lemons and mix with 100g caster sugar in a small saucepan.
Gently heat until sugar dissolves (do not boil).
While the cake is warm, poke small holes with a skewer and pour syrup over the top.
Let the Cake Absorb the syrup completely before adding the glaze.
Step 3: Making the Lemon Glaze
Mix 150g icing sugar with the juice of 1 lemon until smooth.
Drizzle over the cooled cake for a glossy finish.
Let it set for 10 minutes before decorating.
Wedding Decoration Ideas for a Lemon Drizzle Cake
Candied Lemon Slices – Adds a glossy, elegant touch.
Fresh Rosemary or Thyme – Complements the citrus flavour beautifully.
Edible Flowers – Use chamomile, violets, or lavender for a soft floral touch.
Gold Leaf or White Chocolate Drizzle – Makes the cake wedding-worthy.
💡 Pro Tip: For tiered cakes, bake multiple loaf cakes and stack them using lemon buttercream in between.
Why This Cake is Perfect for a London Wedding
✔ Great for Summer Weddings – Light, tangy, and refreshing.
✔ Low-Cost & Easy to Make – A perfect budget-friendly wedding cake.
✔ Easy to Transport – Loaf cakes are sturdy and don’t require refrigeration.
✔ Elegant Yet Simple – A minimalistic wedding cake with a unique twist.
Final Thoughts on Simple Wedding Cakes in London
This three-part guide has covered three easy, delicious, and affordable wedding cakes that can be made at home:
✅ Chocolate Cornflake Cake – Crunchy, nostalgic, and no baking needed.
✅ Vanilla Buttercream Naked Cake – Classic, simple, and versatile.
✅ Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake – Zesty, refreshing, and perfect for summer weddings.
These cakes offer a beautiful alternative to expensive, store-bought wedding cakes, while still being elegant and wedding-worthy. Whether you’re planning a rustic, boho, or minimalist wedding, one of these cakes will surely fit your style!
How 'Pearls & Crumbs' Can Make the Best and Budget-Friendly Wedding Cakes in London
When it comes to finding the perfect wedding cake in London, couples often struggle with the balance between quality, aesthetics, and affordability. Many high-end bakeries charge exorbitant prices for intricate wedding cakes, leaving couples with fewer budget-friendly options. However, Pearls & Crumbs, a bespoke cake shop in West London, is redefining the wedding cake experience by offering luxurious, handcrafted cakes at budget-friendly prices.
This article explores how Pearls & Crumbs can provide stunning, high-quality wedding cakes without breaking the bank. We’ll look at their expertise, range of wedding cakes, customisation options, pricing structure, and why they are the perfect choice for London couples on a budget.
Why Choose Pearls & Crumbs for Your Wedding Cake?
1. Bespoke, Handcrafted Cakes with a Personal Touch
At Pearls & Crumbs, every wedding cake is custom-made to suit the couple’s vision. Unlike mass-produced cakes from commercial bakeries, their cakes are designed with attention to detail and handcrafted elegance.
They work closely with couples to create a cake that fits their wedding theme, colour scheme, and style.
Each cake is designed from scratch, ensuring uniqueness rather than a generic, pre-made design.
The cakes are made using high-quality ingredients, ensuring they taste as good as they look.
If you’re looking for a wedding cake that feels personal, special, and tailored to your love story, Pearls & Crumbs is the perfect choice.
2. Affordable Luxury: High-Quality Cakes Without the High Price
One of the biggest concerns couples face when selecting a wedding cake is the price. In London, wedding cakes can range from £300 to over £1,500, depending on the design, size, and ingredients. Pearls & Crumbs offers luxurious cakes at a fraction of the price, making them a great choice for couples on a budget.
How They Keep Costs Affordable Without Compromising on Quality:
✅ Handmade from Scratch: No mass production or excessive overhead costs.
✅ Direct Customer Interaction: No middlemen, reducing unnecessary markups.
✅ Customisable Options: Couples can choose simple yet elegant designs that fit their budget.
✅ Local Sourcing: Ingredients are sourced from reliable, high-quality suppliers at fair prices.
For couples looking for a beautiful wedding cake without spending a fortune, Pearls & Crumbs is the best-kept secret in London’s wedding scene.
Pearls & Crumbs Wedding Cake Offerings
1. Classic Tiered Wedding Cakes
Ideal for traditional weddings.
Available in two-tier, three-tier, and even grander multi-tier options.
Decorated with buttercream, sugar flowers, pearls, and intricate piping.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: Opt for semi-naked or buttercream-finished cakes instead of fondant-covered cakes to reduce costs.
2. Naked & Semi-Naked Cakes
Perfect for rustic, bohemian, and minimalist weddings.
Uses little to no frosting, allowing the cake layers to show through.
Can be decorated with fresh flowers, fruits, or edible gold accents.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: These cakes require less decoration, reducing labour costs while maintaining elegance.
3. Floral & Botanical Cakes
Cakes decorated with real edible flowers, fresh greenery, and delicate sugar blossoms.
Popular for outdoor and garden weddings.
A natural and budget-friendly alternative to heavily decorated fondant cakes.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: Choose seasonal flowers for affordability and freshness.
4. Cupcake Wedding Towers
A fun alternative to traditional cakes.
Guests can take individual cupcakes, eliminating the need for cake-cutting fees.
Can be displayed on multi-tiered stands to create a stunning centrepiece.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: Cupcakes are often cheaper than multi-tiered cakes while still looking elegant.
5. Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Allergy-Friendly Wedding Cakes
Pearls & Crumbs caters to all dietary needs, including vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free options.
These cakes are just as flavourful and beautifully designed as their traditional counterparts.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: If you have a few guests with allergies, opt for a smaller allergy-friendly cake alongside a standard wedding cake to reduce costs.
Customisation & Personalisation: Your Dream Cake, Your Way
Pearls & Crumbs takes pride in offering highly customisable wedding cakes. Whether you want a specific flavour, colour palette, or a unique theme, they can bring your vision to life.
Popular Customisation Options:
✔ Flavour Choices: Classic vanilla, rich chocolate, zesty lemon, salted caramel, red velvet, and more.
✔ Decorative Elements: Buttercream textures, edible pearls, metallic accents, floral arrangements, and intricate sugar work.
✔ Theme-Based Cakes: Cakes inspired by wedding themes such as vintage, modern, rustic, and fairytale designs.
✔ Personalised Cake Toppers: Add monograms, custom figurines, or meaningful symbols.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: Opt for simple yet elegant designs rather than heavily detailed fondant-covered cakes to save money.
How to Order a Budget-Friendly Wedding Cake from Pearls & Crumbs?
Step 1: Consultation & Design Planning
Visit their website or contact them via phone/email.
Share your wedding theme, guest count, and budget.
Discuss design options, flavour preferences, and decorations.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: Choose a design that fits your budget rather than requesting highly intricate sugar work.
Step 2: Cake Tasting & Flavour Selection
Couples can sample different cake flavours before finalising their order.
This ensures they love both the taste and design of their wedding cake.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: Select a single flavour instead of multiple flavours to keep costs down.
Step 3: Finalising the Cake Size & Design
Decide on the size of the cake based on the number of guests.
Choose decorations that enhance the cake’s elegance without adding excessive costs.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: If your guest list is large, consider a "dummy tier" (fake foam layers) to make the cake look bigger without extra cake cost.
Step 4: Delivery & Setup
Pearls & Crumbs delivers across London and ensures the cake arrives fresh and ready to be displayed.
They also set up the cake at your wedding venue, ensuring it looks perfect for your big day.
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: Pick up the cake yourself if possible to save on delivery costs.
Why Pearls & Crumbs is the Best Choice for Budget-Friendly Wedding Cakes in London
For couples looking for a stunning, high-quality wedding cake without overspending, Pearls & Crumbs is the perfect bakery. Their ability to combine bespoke designs, affordable pricing, and exceptional craftsmanship makes them a top choice for London weddings.
Why Choose Pearls & Crumbs?
✔ Handmade, Luxury Cakes – Every cake is custom-crafted with care.
✔ Affordable Pricing – Get a high-end wedding cake without breaking the bank.
✔ Highly Customisable – From flavours to decorations, everything is tailored to your needs.
✔ Catering to Dietary Needs – Vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options available.
✔ Convenient London Location – Easy ordering, pickup, and delivery options.
If you’re planning a wedding in London and want a gorgeous cake that won’t empty your wallet, Pearls & Crumbs is the perfect place to order from. Get in touch with them today to create your dream wedding cake—without the luxury price tag! 🎂✨
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