Planning a wedding involves countless decisions, and one of the most delightful is choosing the perfect dessert to end your celebration. If a traditional tiered wedding cake is not your style, there are plenty of unique wedding desserts to choose from for your big day. From elegant macarons to homey pies, each dessert brings its own unique flair to the table.
1. Macarons
Elegance in Every Bite
Macarons are the epitome of sophisticated elegance. These delicate French treats come in a myriad of colors and flavors, allowing you to tailor them to your wedding’s color scheme. Their light, airy texture, and rich filling make them a delightful and refined choice that can double as both a treat and a decorative element. Plus, their individual serving size will tempt all your guests to try ‘just one.’
Something Sweet by Maddie Lu and Pretty Little Macs, both in Duluth, are two great options for macarons. For the northwestern side of the state, try Ruther’s Sweetie Pies in Sebeka.
2. Cupcakes
Individual Delight with Infinite Variety
Cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser for good reason. Their individual portions mean that each guest gets a personal serving (or two), and their customizable nature allows you to offer a variety of flavors and frostings. Whether you go for classic vanilla and chocolate or more adventurous flavors like salted caramel and red velvet, cupcakes can be tailored to fit any wedding theme and make for a unique wedding dessert.
There are plenty of ‘cupcakeries’ throughout northern Minnesota. We happen to like Edible Art Bakery and Peney Cakes Cupcakery. (they’ve even got a mobile cupcakery! How’s that for a unique wedding dessert?! You can see all the food trucks on our site here.)
3. Cheesecake
Rich and Decadent
Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert that exudes luxury. With options ranging from classic New York-style to fruity or chocolate variations, cheesecake can cater to a range of palates. Its dense, smooth texture makes it a substantial dessert choice that feels indulgent and special.
For some amazing from-scratch cheesecakes, talk to Creamy Creations in Callaway, Cozy Hen Cheesecakes in Duluth, or U.G.L.Y. Cheesecake Company in Brainerd. You can even opt for individual cheesecake jars from Sonder Bakehouse, just across the border in West Fargo.
4. Dessert Bars
Versatility and Convenience
Dessert bars are a practical yet indulgent option. They come in various flavors and types, from gooey brownies to tangy lemon bars. Their portable nature means guests can easily grab a piece and continue mingling. Dessert bars are also great for offering a diverse array of options in one go, which can be particularly appealing if you want to provide a little something for every taste.
Pumpkin bars from Rother’s Just Desserts would be the perfect choice for a fall wedding in northern Minnesota.
5. Pie
Homey and Heartwarming
Pie has a way of making any occasion feel cozy and intimate. With flavors ranging from traditional apple and pecan to more inventive varieties like salted caramel or pumpkin, pies offer a heartwarming touch. They can be served in individual portions or as a whole pie that guests can slice themselves. Pies also bring a sense of homey comfort to your celebration, making them a beloved choice for many.
Plus, it’s a Minnesota state law that you can’t go to the North Shore without stopping at Betty’s Pies, right?! Serving up a strawberry-rhubard or French blueberry cream would be the perfect ending to a great night.
6. Cookies
Classic Comfort
Cookies bring a nostalgic, comforting vibe to any celebration. From classic chocolate chip to sophisticated biscotti, cookies are versatile and universally loved. Their simplicity and variety allow you to offer a range of flavors, and they can be easily packaged as favors or used to complement other desserts. Cookies are a great way to evoke warmth and joy at your wedding reception.
If you are considering choosing some beautiful cookies for a unique wedding dessert, talk to Sugar & Bee Cookie Co. or Frosted Sweets by Jessica.
7. Donuts
Fun and Flavorful
Donuts add a fun, playful element to your dessert table. Their wide range of flavors, from classic glazed to gourmet options like maple bacon or chocolate crème, can add a touch of novelty and excitement. Donuts can be served in a variety of ways—stacked in a tower, arranged on a dessert bar, or even as a donut wall. They’re perfect for a modern, casual wedding vibe.
If you’ve been to Grand Marais, you know that they literally have The World’s Best Donuts. Enough said.
8. Scones
Elegant and Versatile
Scones offer a delightful mix of crumbly texture and rich flavor, often enjoyed with a spot of tea. They can be served plain, with jam and cream, or with added flavors like chocolate chips or fruit. Their versatility and elegant presentation make them a lovely choice for a sophisticated touch. Scones would also work wonderfully if you are planning on a brunch reception.
We are lucky to have some amazing scones in the North Woods, including Rose Cottage Baking Co., Monica’s Heavenly Treats, and MW Pastry.
Each of these desserts brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the refined elegance of macarons, the comforting familiarity of pie, or the playful joy of donuts. The best choice for your wedding reception depends on your personal taste, the theme of your celebration, and the kind of experience you want to offer your guests. No matter which dessert you choose, it’s sure to be a sweet highlight of your special day.
9. Potica
A Taste of Tradition
Potica is a traditional Eastern European pastry that can add a unique and personal touch to your wedding. This rolled nut bread, filled with a variety of sweet fillings like walnuts or poppy seeds, offers a distinctive flavor and texture that can intrigue and delight your guests. Incorporating potica can be a nod to heritage and can introduce your guests to something new and special.
If potica was part of your childhood and you want to add that to your special day, it definitely works as a unique wedding dessert. Sunrise Bakery in Hibbing and Pep’s Bake Shop in Virginia are both known for their amazing potica.
For a complete list of bakeries in northern Minnesota where you can select a traditional wedding cake or some unique wedding desserts, click here. If you are looking for information on late-night snacks to serve later in the evening, you can see some suggestions here.
