Title: 18 Creative First Birthday Cake Recipes to Try
Are you tired of the same old boring birthday cake? If so, then you’re in luck! We’ve gathered together some of the most creative and delicious first birthday cake recipes out there. From classic vanilla and chocolate to fruity and even healthy options, we’ve got something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 unique and scrumptious recipe ideas that are perfect for celebrating your little one’s special day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. So go ahead, get creative, and make some unforgettable memories with your birthday boy or girl!
Vanilla Sprinkle Smash Cake

A moist vanilla cake smothered in a crunchy sprinkle topping – perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup sprinkles (assorted colors)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
8. Top cooled cakes with sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 40-44 minutes (including cooling time)
Chocolate Banana Baby Cake

This moist and decadent cake is perfect for baby showers or any occasion where you want to impress with a delicious and elegant dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed banana, sugar, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake for Toddlers

Make this yummy dessert with your toddler! Fresh strawberries, creamy whipped cream, and soft biscuits come together to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 package of shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the shortcake biscuits according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Arrange the sliced strawberries on a serving plate or individual plates.
4. Place a baked biscuit on top of the strawberries.
5. Spoon the whipped cream over the biscuit.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 for each serving.
Cooking Time:
Biscuits: 12-15 minutes
Whipped Cream: 2-3 minutes
Tips for Toddlers:
– Let your toddler help with arranging the strawberries and placing the biscuits.
– Use a kid-friendly knife or strawberry scraper to help remove the hulls from the strawberries.
– Make this recipe fun by using colorful plates and utensils!
Healthy Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This moist and flavorful carrot cake is made with wholesome ingredients, making it a guilt-free treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup grated carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Cream cheese frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, carrots, walnuts, sugar, and spices.
3. In a large bowl, combine applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and beat until smooth. Spread or pipe onto cooled cake.
Mini Rainbow Layer Cake

Brighten up your day with this vibrant mini cake that’s as colorful as it is delicious! This recipe yields six adorable layers, each featuring a gradient of colors that will surely delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease six mini springform pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Divide the batter into six portions. Color each portion with a different shade of food coloring, starting from red to purple.
6. Pour each colored batter into the prepared pans, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blueberry Yogurt Cake

Elevate your dessert game with this moist and flavorful Blueberry Yogurt Cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract (if using).
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cake

A rich and moist cake filled with the goodness of peanut butter and chocolate chips, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Drizzle Baby Cake

Brighten up your dessert table with this delightful Lemon Drizzle Baby Cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 6-inch (15cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg yolks, and lemon juice.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before drizzling with a mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice (1:1 ratio).
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Spice Cake

A moist and flavorful cake filled with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped apples (Granny Smith or any variety)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add chopped apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Pumpkin Spice Smash Cake

Get ready to delight your taste buds with this moist and flavorful Pumpkin Spice Smash Cake!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Coconut Pineapple Baby Cake

This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of pineapple with the richness of coconut, perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, unsweetened shredded coconut, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in crushed pineapple.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Oatmeal Cake

Moist and flavorful, this Zucchini Oatmeal Cake is perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, sugar, zucchini, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving. Garnish with chopped walnuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato Chocolate Cake

Sweet Potato Chocolate Cake Recipe
Treat your taste buds to a moist and decadent cake that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, butter, and eggs. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the cake batter until well combined.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Raspberry Almond Cake

This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of raspberries with the nutty taste of almonds, perfect for a special occasion or everyday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in raspberries and almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Bread Baby Cake

Moist and delicious, this Banana Bread Baby Cake is perfect for a special treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 6-cup mini muffin tin or regular-sized cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared cups or pan.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes (mini muffins) or 30-35 minutes (regular cake). Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-35 minutes
Avocado Lime Smash Cake

Get ready to blend up a creamy, citrusy treat that’s perfect for warm weather! This Avocado Lime Smash Cake is a refreshing dessert that combines the richness of avocados with the brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a blender, combine avocados, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and blend until combined.
5. Pour in Greek yogurt and lime juice; blend until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Peach Cobbler Inspired Cake

Sweeten your day with this moist and flavorful peach cobbler-inspired cake, packed with juicy peaches and a crumbly streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced fresh peaches (about 3-4 peaches)
– 1/2 cup streusel topping mixture (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Fold in diced peaches.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
6. Top with streusel topping mixture (see above).
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Oat Flour Honey Cake

Moist and flavorful, this oat flour honey cake is perfect for a sweet treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup oat flour
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oat flour, honey, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Celebrate your little one’s first birthday with these creative and delicious cake recipes! From classic vanilla to decadent chocolate, there’s something for every taste. Try the Vanilla Sprinkle Smash Cake, Chocolate Banana Baby Cake, or Strawberry Shortcake for Toddlers. For a healthier option, go for the Healthy Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. And don’t miss out on the Mini Rainbow Layer Cake, Blueberry Yogurt Cake, and many more! These innovative recipes will make your child’s special day even more memorable.