Key points
- A cutting cake is a simple cake kept in the kitchen and served alongside a smaller display cake.
- A table cake is a long, single tier cake that works as the centrepiece itself.
- Both are easy to portion into finger slices for the evening, the way cake is traditionally served in Ireland.
- They are a practical way to feed large guest numbers without a very tall tiered cake.
What is a cutting cake?
A cutting cake, sometimes called a kitchen cake, is a plain but delicious cake that stays out of sight. You still have a beautiful display cake to cut and photograph, while the venue team slices the cutting cake to serve your guests. It means you can choose a smaller display cake while making sure there is plenty to go round. Wedissimo recommends a display cake plus a cutting cake as one of the best ways to save on your wedding cake.
What is a table cake?
A table cake is a long, rectangular, single tier cake that sits on a sweetheart table, top table or cake table. It has become one of the stand-out trends of 2026. It is generous, relaxed and very easy to cut, and it looks stunning finished with vintage piping, painted petals, fresh flowers, pearls or a personalised topper. See our table cakes for ideas.
Which is right for you?
| Cutting cake | Table cake | |
|---|---|---|
| On display? | No, kept in the kitchen | Yes, it is the centrepiece |
| Paired with | A smaller tiered display cake | Works on its own, or with a small tiered cake |
| Look | Simple finish | Fully decorated |
| Great for | Large guest lists with a grand display cake | Relaxed, modern or vintage weddings |
How many guests will it feed?
Because they are rectangular, table and cutting cakes are easy to cut into neat finger portions, which is how wedding cake is traditionally served at Irish weddings, with tea and coffee in the evening. We will size your cake to your guest numbers. For tiered cakes, our serving guide shows how many portions each tier gives.
Can it be a different flavour?
Yes. A table or cutting cake can be split into sections of different flavours, just like tiers. It is a great way to offer a crowd pleaser such as Victoria Sponge alongside something bolder like Biscoff or Guinness Chocolate. Explore our flavours.
Does it save money?
Often, yes. A single tier cake needs less structure and finishing time than a tall tiered cake, so the cost per portion can be lower. Read our wedding cake prices guide for typical ranges, then ask us for a quote for your numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cutting cake at a wedding?
A cutting cake is a simple cake kept in the kitchen and served to guests alongside a smaller display cake. It helps feed more guests without a very large tiered cake.
Are table cakes cheaper than tiered cakes?
They can be. A single tier cake needs less structure and finishing than a tall tiered design, so the cost per portion is often lower. Ask for a quote for your guest numbers.
Can a table cake have different flavours?
Yes. Table cakes can be made in sections of different flavours, just like the tiers of a traditional cake.
Sources
- Wedissimo: wedding cake cost
- weddingsonline: modern rectangle wedding cakes
- weddingsonline: how to size your wedding cake
Figures are from the sources listed and are a general guide. Every Busy Whisk cake is quoted individually.
