Cake Alternatives for Your Canadian Nuptials
There are alternatives to a wedding cake. Many wedding receptions feature a towering, multi-tiered cake with white frosting and elaborate details, and Canadian marriage ceremonies are no exception. While this cake stands as an iconic symbol of Western weddings, you might prefer to represent your homeland for your special day. You can add a touch of Canuck to the festivities with wedding cake alternatives that are distinctly Canadian. Consider these options for your reception.
1. Nanaimo Bars As Alternatives
Named for the town of Nanaimo in British Columbia, this no-bake dessert may be one of the most well-loved Canadian sweet treats. This dessert is made of three layers, starting with a crust of chocolate, coconut, and graham cracker. The middle layer is rich and creamy yellow custard, topped by a gooey layer of chocolate ganache. The earliest recipe for this treat dates back to the early 1950s, but today’s Nanaimo bar has been modified to include other flavors such as mint, mocha, and peanut butter, among others. Dress this dessert up or down as appropriate for your celebration.
2. Saskatoon Berry Pie
Some people prefer a flaky top crust and a sweet berry filling to kick off a life together. Saskatoon berries resemble blueberries, but they’re smaller and sweeter, with a slightly nutty flavor that is reminiscent of almonds. Also known as juneberries or prairie berries, Saskatoon berries are abundant during the summer months in Canada’s prairie region, including Saskatchewan. Serve whole pies to be cut into slices or individual pies.
3. BeaverTails
When it comes to Canadian desserts, you can’t go wrong with a treat named for the national animal. This sweet treat is made from hand-stretched, fried dough that is topped with chocolate, hazelnut spread, maple butter, and more. Shaped like the tail of a beaver, this fried snack has been a national favorite for over 40 years. Even former US President Barack Obama enjoys this Canadian treat whenever he visits. BeaverTails can also be served as savory snacks, topped with cheese, ham, and other proteins instead.
4. Butter Tarts
Butter tarts are some of the oldest Canadian confections around. Dating back to Canada’s pioneer days, these handheld tarts are almost like pecan pies without the pecans. Hugely popular on the east coast, these pastries are made of butter, cream, sugar, and eggs — everything we love in a dessert. The most common flavor is a filling made of maple and vanilla, but for your nuptials, you could opt for alternative fillings, especially flavors or colors that hold significance.
5. Tiger Tail Ice Cream Alternatives
Exclusive to Canada, this ice cream gets its name from its appearance. It is orange-flavored ice cream swirled with black licorice ribbons, resembling the signature orange and black-striped look of a tiger. While this ice cream peaked in popularity between the 1950s and 1970s, it is still available. Whether you serve it as a snack or as a complement to another dessert, you’re sure to score points with guests, especially those who are nostalgic.
6. Persian
Although the name might make you think otherwise, this dessert actually comes from the city of Thunder Bay in Northwest Ontario. The best way to think of a Persian is as a love child of a cinnamon bun and a donut. Persians are typically oval-shaped and cinnamon-flavored. They’re usually served covered in pink frosting with either a strawberry or raspberry flavor. Consider this treat for your reception menu, especially if pink is a part of your color scheme.
When you’re tying the knot in front of loved ones, you want to make sure that the event is one that everyone recollects fondly. Choosing a menu that makes you and your spouse-to-be happy goes a long way toward that goal. Canada offers several types of desserts that are sure to make your day of celebration extra sweet and super special.