By: Jodie Shield, RD

Whether you opt to host a birthday party in your home or at another location like a movie theater or bowling alley, you will need a cake.  My next  several blogs will give you action-packed birthday party ideas – complete with lightened-up theme cakes that are sure to be a hit!  Let’s get the party started!

Come Join the Parade

Young kids love to go to parades.  Here’s how you can turn your child’s special day into a marching parade complete with a band and drum cake.  This party works well for kids between the ages of two and six.

Drum Cake

Makes 12 servings

Ingredients:

angel food cake mix

2 large containers fat-free whipped topping

1 tube yellow decorator gel

several strands red licorice

10 to 12 gum drops

Directions:

Prepare the angel food cake according to the package directions.  After the cake has cooled, trim the bottom so it’s smooth and even.  Fill the center opening with fat-free whipped topping.  Use the remaining topping to frost the rest of the cake.

Create a one-inch rim around the top and bottom of the cake with the decorator gel.  Zigzag the red licorice around the cake, and place a gumdrop at the point of each zigzag.

Party Tips:

1. Play follow the leader to marching music.
2. Make a “Happy Birthday” banner to carry in the parade, and let all of the guest sign it.
3. Give everyone a toy musical instrument as a party favor.

Join the birthday party fun.  Got any parade ideas you would like to share?