Throwing a successful birthday party is all about planning and forethought, and one area that you absolutely must not neglect is the food.
A beautiful table array of delicious treats will wow guests big and small (and also look amazing in your Instagram photos, as well, of course), so make sure you sit down and really take the time to think about what you want to dish up.
It’s important not to neglect dietary requirements either, so it’s wise to mention this on the invitations and ask parents to get in touch to let you know if there’s anything you need to be aware of. But, in general, having vegetarian and vegan options, as well as gluten-free, will certainly impress your guests.
Snacks for kids
Mini pizzas are always a brilliant option for birthday parties, as they’re relatively quick and easy to put together, and won’t break the bank either. And everyone loves pizza, don’t they?
You could even make it interactive and get the kids to make their own, putting their own toppings on and really getting involved in the cooking. Buying readymade dough will make it even easier for everyone to have fun in the kitchen.
The key is to come up with recipe ideas that won’t take you ages to make, especially if you have lots of people coming to the party. One very quick little dish is marshmallows dipped in chocolate - and the kids will go crazy for them, guaranteed.
Sausage rolls are quick to throw in the oven and they’re always a popular option… and you can never go wrong with chocolate Rice Krispie cakes, which also don’t take long to put together.
And don’t forget to include some super healthy options, either. While there are some fussy eaters out there, presenting fruit and vegetables in an appealing way could encourage even the pickiest children at the party to give them a go.
Make some bright and colourful fruit platters, as well as some veggie ones (complete with hummus, guacamole and other yummy dips) and watch as the kids demolish the lot.
Snacks for the adults
Don’t forget that grownups come to birthday parties too, so it might be fun to have an adult snacking station, as well. Check out the BBC Good Food website for all sorts of party food ideas. You’ll find everything from a stunning baked cheese bread flower and date, blue cheese and pancetta polenta stacks to grilled aubergine stacks and deep-fried olives.
The food you serve really is one of the best ways to make sure that everyone has a good time and your birthday party is incredibly memorable, so start planning now to ensure that no one leaves your home with a rumbling tummy.
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