With inflation rates and the costs of living rising, extravagant birthday parties may not seem financially possible. But aside from skimping on all the frills and glamour, more parents are opting for simple birthdays where everyone can have a good time and have their cake too.
A minimalistic approach to children's birthday parties may be the key to a happy and more fulfilling way to celebrate. Here are 10 basic birthday food ideas that are easy on the wallet.
Popcorn
Chips & Salsa &/or Guacamole
Tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole offer a refreshing combination that will surely keep guests snacking away. Grab a large bag of chips and a value-sized jar of salsa to save time and money. Plus, it's quick and easy to set up with zero preparation required beyond opening a bag and a jar.
If you have the time, make your own restaurant-style salsa from scratch with this recipe.
Fruit on Skewers
This might take a bit of time to prepare, but it's worth the effort because of the end result. Peel and cut fresh fruit such as apples, oranges, watermelon, strawberries, melons, pineapple, and kiwi. Skewer several pieces together and place on a platter. Serve with a side dish of vanilla yogurt and a spoon for dipping.
Fruit skewers are a hygienic option as it prevents the little ones from grabbing fruit with grimy hands.
Cheese & Cracker Platter
There's no need to be fancy when it comes to kids. Slice marble, cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack or American cheese and place the slices on a platter. Open a few boxes of your favorite crackers, and voila: You've got a snack that will keep kids happy and full.
Make-Your-Own Pizza
Host a "make-your-own" pizza party. Kids will discover their inner chefs and become pizza artists, and they're more likely to eat their creations. Offer a variety of different toppings including peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni, ham, pineapple, and onions.
Take a peek at Bobby Flay's pizza dough recipe.
Or order from your favorite pizza joint. Ask if they offer any discounts for large parties and sign up for the company's rewards program if it has one. Don't forget to order some cheese pizza for those who like it plain!
Nachos
Nachos is a crowd-pleaser that is easy on the wallet. It's easy to eat and does not require utensils.
Some toppings you can incorporate include onions, peppers, refried beans, ground beef, cheese, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, black beans, jalapenos, and tomatoes. Skip the meat to offer a vegetarian option.
This recipe for nachos supreme looks delicious.
Hot Dogs
Whether you have a summer baby or a winter one, hot dogs don't have to be restricted to the BBQ season. Hot dogs are simple and fun to eat and can be vegetarian-friendly too!
Offer a variety of condiments for guests to customize their own dog such as ketchup, mustard, relish, pickled onions, and coleslaw.
Be sure to slice hot dogs lengthwise before serving to prevent choking.
Mini Sandwiches
From ham and cheese, cucumber and butter, tuna salad, turkey and Swiss cheese, and egg salad to chicken salad, a wide range of sandwiches exists that will satisfy everyone's palate.
To mix things up, prepare some sweet sandwiches as well such as peanut butter and banana, Nutella and strawberries, and butter and jam, taking into consideration allergies and food aversions.
Cupcakes (From Scratch, Boxed, or Store-Bought)
Cupcakes are a wonderful way to end a birthday party. They are perfectly portioned for a kid without waste.
Instead of having the birthday child blow all over a cake that's sliced and offered to guests, everyone gets a mini cake that's germ-free.
Also, if parents need to pick up their child early, they can take their dessert to go without having to wait for the birthday song to be sung.
Check out this classic vanilla cupcake recipe.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar
What kid doesn't love an ice cream sundae?
Go to the store and buy a gallon of vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup, sprinkles, caramel syrup, marshmallows, Oreos, and whipped cream. It's more affordable than heading to an ice cream shop that will charge a fortune for the same thing.
Party guests will have fun making their sundaes, and it'll be a treat they won't forget. Plus, you'll probably have enough leftovers to host your own family ice cream party the next day.
