No matter how you say it, birthdays are a cause for celebration! To help kick off your next trip around the sun, we’ve compiled a few budget-friendly birthday recipes from cultures around the world. Enjoy trying something new on your big day while you celebrate with family and friends.
Australia – Fairy Bread
You know you’re in for a special birthday treat when you make this simple and classic Australian favorite – fairy bread. It's a perfect mixture of buttered bread and tiny, round, colorful sprinkles (or 100s & 1000s, as Australians call them) that will excite kids and nostalgic adults alike. This delightful rainbow snack is so easy to make that it's almost impossible to go wrong.
Mexico – Arroz con Leche
Arroz con Leche is a traditional Mexican dessert often served at birthday parties. This creamy rice pudding is made with milk, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla, with a hint of orange or lemon zest added for a citrusy twist. It’s a rich and comforting dish that’s easy to make and can be served warm or cold, making it a perfect dessert for any season. The texture of the rice pudding is soft and creamy, and the flavors are warm and comforting. Try this recipe from Spanish Sabores to experience the authentic taste of Mexican cuisine.
Netherlands – Vlaai
Birthdays are a special occasion in the Netherlands, and the Dutch have a unique way of celebrating them. One of the most important aspects of celebrating a birthday is sharing, and one of the best traditions is to make a pie called Vlaai. Friends and family members usually help prepare this mouth-watering dessert (recipe by 196 Flavors), which is loaded with a fruit filling like apples, berries, plums, or apricots. This sweet delight is enormous, measuring around 26-31 centimeters in diameter. The Vlaai not only serves as a tasty dessert, but it’s also a symbol of the strong bonds between family and friends, making it an essential part of the Dutch birthday tradition.
Sweden – Prinsesstårta
You’ll feel like royalty on your birthday with a Prinsesstårta, or Princess Cake. This beloved Swedish layer cake (recipe by Lilis Cakes) is filled with marzipan, sponge cake, raspberry jam, and a LOT of whipped cream. These cakes often have fondant green tops and are sprinkled with powdered sugar. A Prinsesstårta is both visually stunning and delightful.
Ghana – Oto
In Ghana, birthdays are celebrated with a special dish called Oto. Made from mashed yam and eggs, seasoned with onions, salt, and pepper, Oto can be eaten as a breakfast or lunch dish and is often accompanied by fried plantains and hot pepper sauce. Oto is a staple in Ghanaian cuisine, and with this recipe from Foreign Fork, you can dish up a perfect way to celebrate your birthday while enjoying the authentic flavors of Ghana.
China - Longevity Noodles
Long noodles = long life. Found on the banquet table for most celebrations, yi mien (long-life noodles) are eaten at birthdays to symbolize the hope of many more birthdays to come. You can find yi mien at most Asian grocery stores, and the other ingredients are pretty straightforward. A savory alternative to traditional sweet birthday treats, this recipe from The Woks of Life cooks them up in a simple but delicious way.
Get Set for the Year Ahead with PSECU
Once you've enjoyed your treats and are ready to dive into the year ahead, set aside some time to make sure your money management is on track. Check out our financial tips for every stage in life to give yourself the gift of financial literacy.
