When it comes to cake trends in London, flavors and designs come and go—but buttercream cakes have stood the test of time. Their soft texture, dreamy finish, and versatile design potential make them one of the most popular choices for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and every occasion in between. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic cake like your grandma used to make, or a modern buttercream masterpiece with gold leaf and dried florals, this article will walk you through why buttercream cakes are still the reigning favorite in the London celebration scene.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What makes buttercream cakes so special
- Popular buttercream flavors in London
- Design trends for buttercream cakes
- Where to buy the best buttercream cakes in London
- Why The Pantry Cakes is a top choice for buttercream lovers
What Is a Buttercream Cake?
A buttercream cake is a cake that’s frosted with a creamy, whipped mixture made primarily from butter and sugar. Unlike fondant, which creates a firmer, more structured finish, buttercream is soft, smooth, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It can be piped, smoothed, swirled, or left rustic—making it one of the most flexible decorating options for cake artists.
There are also various types of buttercream, including:
- American Buttercream: The sweetest and simplest version, made with butter and icing sugar.
- Swiss Meringue Buttercream: Light and silky with a less sweet, more refined flavor.
- Italian Meringue Buttercream: Rich and glossy, made by cooking sugar syrup into whipped egg whites.
- French Buttercream: Luxurious and custardy, using egg yolks for depth of flavor.
No matter the type, buttercream provides the ideal canvas for both flavor and visual appeal.
Why Londoners Love Buttercream Cakes
1. Soft, Creamy Texture That Melts in the Mouth
Buttercream cakes are beloved for their tender crumb and ultra-creamy frosting. It’s the kind of cake that makes guests ask for seconds (or thirds!).
2. Customizable for Any Occasion
Buttercream can be easily tinted, piped into flowers, smoothed for a modern look, or swirled for a vintage feel. This versatility means you can tailor a buttercream cake to suit:
- Children’s birthdays
- Elegant wedding receptions
- Casual afternoon teas
- Instagram-worthy celebrations
3. Aesthetic and Delicious
Unlike fondant, which some people peel off, buttercream is both beautiful and completely edible. From ombré finishes to floral piping and edible gold accents, buttercream cakes can look just as stunning as they taste.
4. Budget-Friendly Luxury
Compared to fondant-covered cakes, buttercream cakes are often more affordable while still offering a luxurious, artisan appearance.
Popular Flavours for Buttercream Cakes in London
At The Pantry Cakes and other premium London bakeries, these buttercream combinations are top sellers:
- Vanilla Bean with Fresh Berries: A light and airy classic with fresh seasonal fruits.
- Chocolate Fudge with Coffee Buttercream: Rich, bold, and ideal for coffee lovers.
- Lemon Sponge with Raspberry Buttercream: Bright, zesty, and perfect for summer parties.
- Salted Caramel Drip Cake: A sweet and salty crowd-pleaser.
- Red Velvet with Cream Cheese Buttercream: Velvety smooth and always in demand.
Need an eggless option? Many London cake makers—including The Pantry Cakes—offer eggless buttercream cakes that taste just as delicious as traditional ones.
Buttercream Cake Design Trends in London (2025 Edition)
Designers and cake artists across London are pushing the limits of buttercream creativity. Here are the hottest trends:
1. Vintage Lambeth Piping
Inspired by royal-style piping from the 1950s, Lambeth cakes feature intricate borders, swags, and frills in pastel tones. Perfect for birthdays and bridal showers.
2. Korean Minimalist Cakes
Single-tiered, dainty cakes with subtle palette colors and elegant piping. Usually 4-inch or 6-inch sizes for small intimate celebrations.
3. Textured Abstract Designs
Sculpted buttercream with spatula textures, gold leaf, and hand-painted florals for an artistic touch.
4. Floral and Garden-Inspired Cakes
Pressed flowers, buttercream blooms, and vine-like piping turn these cakes into garden-inspired masterpieces.
5. Fault Line Cakes
These feature a break or “fault line” filled with sprinkles, edible pearls, or fresh flowers—a modern and Instagrammable design.
Buttercream Cakes for Every Occasion
Buttercream cakes aren’t limited to birthdays or weddings. Here’s how people in London are using them:
- Anniversaries: Heart-shaped buttercream cakes with romantic messages.
- Baby Showers: Soft pastel buttercream with custom toppers like “It’s a Girl!”
- Graduations: Bold buttercream cakes with edible scrolls and school emblems.
- Engagement Parties: Floral two-tier cakes with initials and gold drip accents.
- Corporate Events: Branded cakes with company logos in buttercream piping.
Where to Get the Best Buttercream Cakes in London
There are many cake shops in London, but not all are created equal when it comes to buttercream craftsmanship.
Why Choose The Pantry Cakes?
The Pantry Cakes has become a go-to destination for luxury buttercream cakes in London—and for good reason.
- Custom Designs: Whether you’re after a cartoon theme, abstract art, or classic elegance, our cake artists bring your vision to life.
- Premium Ingredients: We use only high-quality butter, organic eggs, and real vanilla extract—no shortcuts.
- Eggless Options: For those with dietary restrictions, we offer eggless and even gluten-free buttercream cakes.
- London-Wide Delivery: Freshness guaranteed with fast, reliable cake delivery across London.
- 5-Star Reviews: With hundreds of happy customers, our reputation speaks for itself.
What Our Customers Say
“I ordered a two-tiered buttercream cake for my daughter’s birthday and it was a work of art. The piping was immaculate and the cake tasted heavenly!”
– Priya, Kensington
“Their salted caramel drip cake was the highlight of our office party. Everyone loved it—even the gluten-free option!”
– James, Shoreditch
“The Pantry Cakes really exceeded my expectations. Beautifully crafted buttercream cake with vintage design. Delivered on time, too.”
– Amira, South London
Tips for Ordering Your Dream Buttercream Cake
Want the perfect buttercream cake for your next event? Keep these tips in mind:
Book Early – Especially during holidays or wedding season.
Size Matters – Decide how many guests you’ll serve to choose the right size.
Flavour First – Pick a flavour that suits your crowd.
Bring Inspiration – Share Pinterest boards or reference images with your baker.
Consider Delivery Timing – Make sure someone is home to receive your cake on the day.
Final Thoughts: Why Buttercream Cakes Remain a Timeless Classic
Trends may come and go, but buttercream cakes continue to be the top choice for Londoners who want both style and flavor. From elegant wedding cakes to whimsical birthday designs, buttercream offers a versatility that’s unmatched in the world of cake.
And if you’re looking for a cake that’s more than just a dessert—something memorable, beautiful, and handcrafted—The Pantry Cakes is here to deliver just that, right to your door.
