While cakes may hold a special place in our hearts, we firmly believe that cheese has earned its rightful spot as a close second. The popularity of cheese wheel wedding cakes is on the rise, and for good reason – they bring a refined yet rustic charm to any celebration. From rich brie to sweet Wensleydale, pungent blue to smoky cheddar, the diversity of cheese offers endless possibilities. When paired with fresh grapes, figs, berries, or flowers, cheese wheels become an unconventional yet captivating alternative to traditional wedding cakes or late-night snacks. However, when it comes to selecting the perfect tiers for a cheese wheel, we require the expertise of seasoned professionals. Enter Andy Swinscoe, Cheesemonger of the Year at the 2013 World Cheese Awards and developer of cheese wedding cakes with John Lewis. With his extensive knowledge of artisanal cheeses, including Camembert and Cambozola, Andy is uniquely qualified to guide us in creating the ideal cheese wheel wedding cake. Let’s let Andy take the reins and share his insights on crafting the perfect cheese wheel masterpiece.
Order extra supplies of the top (smallest) tiers.
When it comes to ordering a multi-tiered cake, many people overlook the reality that the cheese content decreases as you move up the layers. The top tier, in particular, often features much smaller portions of cheese. To ensure an even distribution among your guests, consider ordering a few extra of these smaller ‘top-tier’ cheeses to be served alongside the cut cake. This way, everyone can enjoy a fair share of the deliciousness.
Make sure you’ve pre-tasted all the cheeses in your cake.
When it comes to curating the perfect cheese wedding cake, taste is paramount. You want your guests to be wowed by each bite, and the right cheeses are essential to achieving that. For optimal results, seek out reputable cheese shops that offer tastings before purchasing. If a great local option isn’t feasible, many high-quality establishments will accommodate mail-order requests for sample boxes, allowing you to preview and select your favorite varieties. The Courtyard Dairy is one such example, regularly sending out sample boxes to its customers so they can experience the exceptional quality and flavor of their offerings.
Size and colour matter too.
When it comes to crafting the ultimate cheese wedding cake, presentation is key. To achieve a show-stopping design, focus on selecting cheeses that allow for a gradual increase in layer size, with at least 2cm difference between each tier. This visual effect will be further enhanced by incorporating pops of color through the use of colorful cheeses like Sparkenhoe red Leicester or Shropshire Blue. Alternatively, you can also add a touch of whimsy with fruit decorations. The result will be a truly unforgettable and delicious centerpiece for your special day.
Try to balance styles.
When crafting a cheese wedding cake, it’s crucial to consider a variety of textures and flavors rather than just focusing on the diameter of individual cheeses. A mix of styles is essential, including at least one hard, soft, and blue option. Consider adding goat’s cheese and crumbly options like Lancashire, Cheshire, or Wensleydale to create a well-rounded selection. Harder cheeses tend to be more popular, so it’s recommended to use the majority of these in your cake. The photo above, courtesy of Leani Holmes Photography via Burnett’s Boards, serves as a great reminder of the importance of variety and balance when it comes to creating a cheese wedding cake that truly impresses.
Build your own.
When planning a cheese wedding cake, it’s common to book an appointment with a reputable cheesemonger like The Courtyard Dairy to create a custom design that meets your unique requirements. However, you may also prefer to build your own masterpiece. If you have a favorite cheese, consider asking your supplier to cut it into flat circles, which can be stacked tier upon tier to create the desired shape. For those looking to DIY their cheese wedding cake, The Courtyard Dairy’s diameter dimensions guide provides valuable insights on how to achieve the perfect tapering tower.
Don’t be afraid of using a soft cheese in the lower layers.
When constructing a cheese tower, a crucial consideration is the stability of the soft cheese base. To prevent deformation under the weight of subsequent cheeses, try this clever hack: remove a small circular section from the center of the soft cheese and replace it with an egg cup. This will provide a solid foundation for the next layer, rendering the egg cup virtually invisible. For larger or wider cheeses, replicate this process using multiple egg cups, capped by a cake plate to ensure structural integrity.
Add height to your cake.
Elevate your cake’s profile without breaking the bank. A clever trick is to insert glass tea-light holders between each layer, not only adding visual interest but also providing a blank canvas for creative decorations. This simple technique can transform the overall appearance of your cake, making it stand out with minimal extra cost.
Small can be beautiful.
To add an unconventional yet delightful touch to your wedding celebration, consider crafting unique miniature cheese wedding cakes for each table. This creative idea allows you to showcase two or three distinct cheeses, such as the creamy Tunworth Camembert paired with a tangy Dorstone goats’ cheese. The result is a visually appealing ‘cheese table cake’ that will undoubtedly delight your guests. A photo by Chloe Brown, Caught The Light via You and Your Wedding perfectly captures this charming idea.
Serve your cheese at room temperature.
When it comes to cheese, there’s a noticeable difference in its flavor profile when it’s at room temperature. To fully appreciate the nuances of your favorite variety, it’s essential to remove it from the fridge a couple of hours prior to serving or cutting. However, be mindful not to leave it out for too long, as this can lead to an unpleasantly soft and runny texture – think Brie going rogue down the aisle! It’s all about striking that perfect balance between warmth and freshness.
How much cheese do you need?
For an average cheese platter, aim for a generous but not overwhelming amount – roughly 70-100 grams per person is a good starting point. If you’re looking to make cheese the star of the show and feature it prominently on your menu, consider doubling that quantity to ensure each guest has a satisfying serving.
(The extra one.) Be safe and minimise the worry.
When planning your special day, it’s essential to order your cheese wedding cake well in advance. This ensures the cheese is perfectly ripe and ready for serving. To avoid last-minute stress, arrange for delivery two working days prior to the event, giving you one less thing to worry about. Consider pairing your delicious cheese with a glass of red wine – after all, it’s never too early to start celebrating! A big thank you goes out to Andy for sharing his valuable insights. For more information on The Courtyard Dairy and their unique cheese wheel wedding cakes, visit their website. Additionally, check out our Wedding Cake Trends + Party Food Pinterest Board for inspiration on other refreshing ideas for your special day.