Recently while at a wedding in New York City, I beheld a groom's cake that replicated the groom's laborador retriever laying on a pillow with the car keys to his BMW. The detail was phenomenal from the furry hatching of the dog to the BMW insignia on the keyring, and I must say the groom was quite impressed by this confectionary surprise planned by his bride. This is not to say that all groom's cakes must be so detailed or elaborate, but there is something to be said for highlighting the interests or vocation of the groom in a special cake.

At Jody's Pantry we have had requests for groom's cakes ranging from an intricate lawyer's scale of justice designed with marblized fondant, to a fun and simple farmer's garden complete with cows and John Deere tractors. Also popular are cakes decorated like the groom's tuxedo complete with lapels, a bow tie and a small fondant boutinerre. Realistic basket cakes completed by a fondant or grapevine handle, with fresh fruit or tuxedo chocolate dipped strawberries spilling out are also trendy this year. Sports themes often find their way into groom's cake in the shape of baseball caps with the favored team's insignia, or football or basketball shaped cakes.

As for the question of when to serve this confectionary tribute, it would appear that either at the rehearsal dinner, or displayed at the wedding reception, guests and the groom alike will enjoy the chance to glimpse into the groom's interests or hobbies. If served at rehearsal as the evening's dessert, the cake should be comprised of something favored by the groom. If the groom adores his grandmother's german chocolate cake recipe or Aunt Sophie's almond cake, perhaps your baker or designer would consent to using that special recipe.