Birthday cake basics
Can making a spectacular birthday cake be stress-free? Marie Sansom asks an expert and an accomplished home cook for their tips.
Sweet treats
Chocolate spider cup cakes
Jeremy & Jane Strode These are quick to prepare and so rich and fudgy adults can enjoy them too.
Geoff's chocolate crackles
CAROLINE VELIK An adult version of chocolate crackles - why should the kids have all the fun?!
Rainbow choc-pops
Lynne Mullins They look amazing and taste delicious, but even better still, they can be made several days ahead and stored in the freezer.
Colourful fruit skewers
Lynne Mullins It's often hard to avoid the junk-food trap when planning a child's birthday party.
Tie-dyed cakes in a jar
For the home cook who finds the prospect of making desserts intimidating, baking cakes in jars is a revelation.
Chocolate macaroons
Stephanie Alexander A good one to make ahead of time - filled macaroons are more squidgy and much more delicious after 1 or 2 days in an airtight container.
Gingerbread cats and dogs
Jeremy and Jane Strode These barking biscuits will have kids baying for more.
Savoury nibbles
Tasty chicken balls
Michelle Curtis Team these with a dipping sauce such as tzatziki, hummus or even tomato sauce and you're on to a winner.
Easy hummus dip
Kate Gibbs Always keep a can or two of chickpeas in the pantry to make this child-friendly dip.
Chicken and cucumber rice paper rolls
Lynne Mullins A healthy option that kids will love. Use a barbecued chicken if you're short on time.
Beef empanadas
Jeremy & Jane Strode These savoury pastries can be filled with chicken, vegetables or cheese.
Bacon and cheese scrolls
Justine Davies The filling can be varied according to your child’s preferences and the scrolls are suitable for freezing.
Arancini
CAROLINE VELIK These rice balls are best served hot and are delicious with a tomato dipping sauce.
Party fit for a princess
Birthday cake advice and recipes from Margaret Fulton and her granddaughter Louise Fulton Keats.
A party with a difference
Forget the lollies and pass the parcel, these children baked biscuits to give away.
