The Cake Edit: Dessert Trends We Love for 2026

Sweet cake trends for 2026, served fresh!

FOR THE LOVE OF LAMBETH

Opulent and joyful, the ornate piping of yesteryear has reemerged with Lambeth cakes. Using royal icing rather than soft buttercream, these designs feature more-is-more layers of scrolls, swags and ruffles. For couples seeking a maximalist confectionary sculpture with nostalgic sense of whimsy, this style is “the one.”

Photo (left): Trinity’s Kitchen shot by Maggie Dunn Photography | Photo (right): A.joy Cakes & Co. shot by Madie Ice Photography

TIRAMISU

This café classic is stepping out of the dessert case and into the wedding reception. Tiramisu’s layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream and cocoa makes it the ultimate pick-me-up dessert. Whether plated as a traditional slice or served in a tower of coupes, your guests will appreciate the coffee boost as they hit the dance floor.

Photo (both): Kimberly’s Cakery shot by Savannah H Photography

THE MORE THE MERRIER

Can’t settle on just one flavor? Skip the singular showpiece and offer a collection of smaller cakes instead. This approach lets you say yes to multiple flavors and styles while also accommodating guests with dietary needs, like being gluten-free, nut-free or vegan.

Photo: Publix Bakery shot by Meli & Chris Wedding Photography

THAT’S AMORE

For a dessert that’s as entertaining as it is light and sweet, a millefoglie Italian wedding cake is that girl. Made from crisp layers of puff pastry, silky pastry cream and topped with fresh berries and powdered sugar, this classic is often assembled on-site — turning dessert into performance art.

Photo (left): Cakes by Anna shot by M Visuals | Photo (right): Ricky Saucedo shot by Caroline Stephens Photography

NOSTALGIC CAKE TOPPERS

Vintage cake toppers transcend eras — providing that sweet, old-school touch. Be sentimental and borrow your parents’ topper, or go the sustainable route and source a vintage one from your favorite antique store.

Photo (left): Sugartopia Bakery shot by Izzy + Co | Photo (right): Cakes by Anna shot by Addie Eanes

TROMPE L’OEIL

If you want a “fun” cake alongside your traditional cake, showcase some personality with a trompe l’oeil partner’s cake. Sculpted to resemble real objects, these illusion cakes have guests asking, “Is it cake?” before your knife reveals the tasty truth.

Photo (left): Gabriel’s Bakery shot by Meli & Chris Wedding Photography | Photo (right): Confection Perfection shot by Madie Ice Photography