Wedding cakes are essential parts of every wedding and are true works of art. They can be simple and delicious or towering with unique adornments and frosting designs. They’ve evolved over time and have a fascinating history. Whether you’re trying cakes for an upcoming wedding, or just love baked goods, find the dynamic origins of these timeless desserts below.

Roman Weddings

The first wedding cakes appeared in ancient Rome. Following the wedding ceremony, the groom would break a loaf of barley bread — or later, a barley cake — over the bride’s head. Because barley was a staple in Roman agriculture, it symbolized fertility. Once broken, guests would pick up the cake and bread crumbs and take them home for good luck.

Medieval England

When the Romans conquered England, they brought their wedding traditions with them, and they endured through the centuries. Medieval practices involved stacking spiced buns, cookies, and other pastries as high as possible. The bride and groom would then try to kiss over it without knocking the tower over, earning them good fortune.

The Birth of the Modern Wedding Cake

The first modern wedding cake recipe appeared in 1685, though it was for a pie. Shortly after, sugar became plentiful in England, which led to sweet cakes. These were status symbols, and the more complex the decorations, the more elite the bride and groom’s social status. This extended all the way up to the royal family. Over time, bakers created tiered cakes with the intricate adornments you see today. Now, these culinary works of art are distinct centerpieces for any wedding ceremony.

If you’re in Cincinnati, OH, and are shopping for your wedding cake, stop by The BonBonerie. This bakery has been creating delicious cakes, pastries, and baked goods for over 30 years and continues to garner awards from publications like The Knot and Cincinnati Magazine. Professional chefs Mary Pat Pace and Sharon Butler will work with you to craft a truly unique dessert. Explore their menu on their website, call (513) 321-3399 to speak with their staff, and connect on Facebook for news and updates.