In a traditional Norwegian wedding, the tall, ring-shaped celebration cake is called kransekake.
Kransekake is made from almond-based dough and assembled from concentric rings stacked into a cone. White icing is often used to decorate the cake and join the rings. Its firm texture allows the cake to stand vertically, making it both a dessert and a centerpiece.
The name means “wreath cake” in Norwegian and Danish. Although strongly associated with Norway, similar ring cakes are also part of Danish celebrations. Kransekake is served at weddings, Christmas, New Year celebrations, and other important occasions.
It should not be confused with bløtkake, a soft layered cream cake found in Norway. Kransekake’s defining feature is its stack of almond rings, not simply its use at a wedding reception.