Originally posted on Polka Dot Bride September 24th 2008

Photo by Ksenija Savic Photography

The groom’s cake is a mysterious thing down here in Australia. We hear the term and the question is raised, what is a groom’s cake?

The groom’s cake is a tradition hailing from Southern USA (though other sources tell me it’s from Europe). In the 1800’s, the wedding cake (a light cake) became known as the bride’s cake and thus the darker groom’s cake was born.

Instead of the usual fruitcake or light coloured cake, the groom’s cake is usually a little more creative – something richer or darker like chocolate is the usual choice. It is also often ordered as a surprise from the bride to the groom.

The fun part of the groom’s cake is the decoration. Instead of a tiered cake with flowers or bows this cake can take on a special meaning to the groom. A football, a character from his favourite TV show or as seen in Steel Magnolias– an armadillo.

If not eaten at the reception, the groom’s cake is boxed to take home.

A little tale tells us that a single girl who sleeps with a slice of the groom’s cake under her pillow will dream of the man they’re going to marry (or end up with a messy pillow!)

The groom’s cake is otherwise eaten the night before the wedding at the rehearsal dinner or during day after the wedding celebrations.