Are you searching for the perfect sweet treat to celebrate a special birthday? Whether it’s a milestone birthday or just another year older, a delicious dessert is always the way to go. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering birthday dessert recipes that are sure to impress your loved ones.
From classic vanilla cake with buttercream frosting to decadent chocolate brownies and cupcakes, we’ve got you covered. And if you’re looking for something a little more unique, why not try our strawberry shortcake trifle or s’mores layer cake? Whatever the occasion, these birthday dessert recipes are sure to be a hit. So grab your apron and get baking – it’s time to make some sweet memories!
Classic Vanilla Birthday Cake with Buttercream Frosting
Celebrate a special birthday with this timeless classic cake recipe, paired with a rich and creamy buttercream frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 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 whole milk
For the frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch 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 butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool completely on wire racks.
8. For frosting, beat butter and powdered sugar together until smooth. Add vanilla extract.
9. Assemble cake by spreading one-third of the frosting on top of one cooled cake layer. Top with second layer.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Chocolate Fudge Brownie Cupcakes
Transform your cupcake game with these decadent treats that combine the best of both worlds – fudgy brownies and creamy chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 and 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup fudge brownie mix
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then chocolate chips and fudge brownie mix.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Funfetti Birthday Cake Cookies
Celebrate any occasion with these soft, chewy cookies filled with colorful funfetti and birthday cake flavors. Perfect for sharing (or not!)
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles (color of your choice)
– Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in flour mixture, then stir in funfetti sprinkles.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe
Get ready to impress your friends with this show-stopping Strawberry Shortcake Trifle, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 12-16 shortcakes (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and kosher salt.
3. Split the shortcakes in half horizontally to create “top” and “bottom” halves.
4. Begin assembling the trifle by placing a layer of whipped cream on the bottom of a large serving dish.
5. Arrange 4-6 shortcake “bottoms” on top of the whipped cream.
6. Spoon sliced strawberries over the shortcakes, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 two more times, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None (assembled trifle)
Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with this unique and indulgent recipe that combines the richness of red velvet cake with the creaminess of cheesecake. The result is a fudgy, gooey, and utterly irresistible dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Prepare the brownie mixture by whisking together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and red food coloring.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; pour into prepared pan.
5. Top with cheesecake mixture (softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract).
6. Swirl the mixtures together using a knife or spatula.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake! Moist lemon cake layers are stacked with a sweet and tangy blueberry compote, creating a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the blueberry compote:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites, butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the cake with blueberry compote.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Oreo Ice Cream Cake
A show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion, this Oreo ice cream cake combines the classic flavors of vanilla ice cream and Oreos with a rich chocolate ganache. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a decadent treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts vanilla ice cream
– 18-20 Oreo cookies, crushed
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreos and whipped cream. Mix until well combined.
2. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a 9×13-inch dish. Top with the Oreo mixture, spreading evenly.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the melted chocolate over the Oreo layer and smooth out.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (freezing time)
Enjoy your amazing Oreo ice cream cake!
Rainbow Sprinkle Cake Pops
Brighten up any occasion with these vibrant cake pops, bursting with rainbow colors and sprinkles. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cake mix (white or vanilla)
– 1 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– Rainbow sprinkles, for decorating
– White chocolate chips or candy melts, for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Allow the cake to cool completely. Then, crumble it into a bowl and mix with confectioners’ sugar, butter, and a splash of water until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Melt white chocolate chips or candy melts according to package instructions. Dip each cake ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
5. Immediately sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles before the chocolate hardens.
Cooking Time:
– Cake baking time: 20-25 minutes
– Cooling time: at least 30 minutes
– Chilling time: at least 30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and colorful Rainbow Sprinkle Cake Pops!
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake, featuring a moist and chewy cookie texture infused with the rich flavors of peanut butter and dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, peanut butter, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tiramisu Layer Cake with Mascarpone
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Tiramisu Layer Cake featuring the creamiest mascarpone frosting. This classic Italian dessert gets a modern twist in cake form, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 12-16 ladyfingers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
6. Whisk mascarpone, sugar, and butter until smooth. Assemble cake layers with mascarpone frosting and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes, plus chilling time.
Caramel Apple Pie Bars
These Caramel Apple Pie Bars combine the warmth of caramel with the crunch of oatmeal and the sweetness of apples, all wrapped up in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and diced apples.
5. Pour the apple mixture over the oat layer and drizzle with caramel sauce.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this creamy banana pudding, perfectly paired with crunchy vanilla wafers.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sliced bananas and cooled pudding mixture.
4. Spoon pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Top with crushed vanilla wafers.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Tart
This decadent tart combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of chocolate, perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups of sliced strawberries
– 1 cup of dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon of honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Arrange the sliced strawberries on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Fold the other half of the pastry over the strawberries and press gently to seal.
4. Brush the melted butter and honey mixture evenly over the pastry.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Allow the tart to cool completely before drizzling with melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this light and airy Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse Cake, perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Whipped cream and additional raspberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, egg whites, and vanilla extract until frothy.
4. Fold whipped cream into the sugar mixture until well combined.
5. Stir pureed raspberries into the white chocolate until fully incorporated.
6. Pour the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle confectioners’ sugar on top (if using).
9. Garnish with whipped cream and additional raspberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
S’mores Layer Cake with Toasted Marshmallow
This show-stopping cake is a twist on the classic campfire treat, featuring layers of chocolate cake, toasted marshmallow buttercream, and graham cracker crumbs. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the toasted marshmallow buttercream:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1/4 cup toasted marshmallows (see note)
For assembly:
– Graham cracker crumbs, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake according to package instructions or recipe of your choice.
3. Toast marshmallows by holding them over a flame until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
4. Assemble the cake by spreading toasted marshmallow buttercream between layers, finishing with a layer on top.
5. Garnish with graham cracker crumbs and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes for the cake, plus additional time for assembling and decorating
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Recipe!
These moist and flavorful cupcakes feature caramelized pineapple rings and cherries on the bottom, creating a stunning upside-down effect. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup cherry halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, and pineapple juice. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Arrange pineapple rings and cherries in the bottom of each cupcake liner.
6. Pour batter over fruit and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cookies and Cream Birthday Cake
Celebrate a special birthday with this moist and creamy cake that combines the classic flavors of cookies and cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g. Oreos)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the 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 bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in crushed cookies.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Raspberry Macarons
Lemon Raspberry Macarons Recipe
Brighten up your dessert game with these tangy and sweet Lemon Raspberry Macarons! This French-inspired treat combines the citrusy zing of lemon curd with the sweet-tartness of fresh raspberries.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
• 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup (30g) raspberry jam
• Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually add granulated sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whip until smooth.
5. Fold the sifted almond mixture into the egg mixture until combined.
6. Transfer batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to form skin.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
9. Allow macarons to cool completely before filling with raspberry jam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Éclairs
Elevate your dessert game with these rich and creamy éclairs infused with the deep flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts. Perfect for special occasions or as a indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup (120g) hazelnut spread
– 1/4 cup (30g) dark chocolate chips
– Freshly whipped cream and chopped hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add milk and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before filling with hazelnut spread and topping with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peach Cobbler with Cinnamon Streusel
Peach cobbler is a classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, and adding a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping takes it to the next level. This recipe combines sweet juicy peaches with a buttery crust and a crispy streusel topping for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– Cinnamon Streusel Topping (see below)
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, and salt. Mix well.
3. Pour melted butter over the peach mixture and toss until coated.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the peach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Mix dry ingredients and cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the peach cobbler before baking.
Summary
Get ready to celebrate birthdays in a sweet and indulgent way! This article features 20 delicious dessert recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic birthday cakes like vanilla with buttercream frosting to unique treats like caramel apple pie bars, there’s something for every celebration. Try making funfetti cake cookies, strawberry shortcake trifle, or s’mores layer cake with toasted marshmallow. Whatever your taste buds desire, these mouth-watering desserts are sure to satisfy. So go ahead and get baking!
