Celebrating the Sweetness of Australian Women’s Weekly Birthday Cakes

Australian Women’s Weekly Children’s Birthday Cake Book holds a special place in the hearts of many who grew up in the ’80s and ’90s. The imaginative and iconic birthday cakes featured in the book became a staple at children’s birthday parties, captivating kids and delighting adults. These nostalgic cakes have stood the test of time and continue to be a cherished tradition at celebrations today.

The popularity of these iconic cakes is evident, with millions of TikTok posts and countless homemade renditions shared on social media platforms like Instagram. One of the most notoriously challenging cakes, the Duck Cake, even gained recognition on the popular show Bluey.

Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the top 10 most beloved Australian Women’s Weekly children’s birthday cakes that have left a lasting impression on generations of Australians:

10. Choo-choo train: This train cake, featured on the cover of the 40th-anniversary edition of the book, remains a timeless favorite among preschoolers.

9. Swimming pool: Who can forget the green jelly pool adorned with baby dolls? A modern twist with blue jelly offers a healthier alternative.

8. Dolly Varden: With a dedicated tin for the skirt, the Dolly Varden cake was a dream come true for many children.

7. Sweets shop: The Sweets Shop cake, adorned with retro Darrell Lea Bo-Peep lollies and candy cane sticks, was a coveted treat for kids nationwide.

6. Candy castle: Featuring inverted ice cream cones as castle spires and fluffy marshmallow icing, this cake was a true masterpiece of creativity.

5. Number one: A vibrant cake often chosen for a baby’s first birthday, decorated with rows of colorful Smarties for a visually striking appeal.

4. Beautiful butterfly: An ’80s classic, the butterfly cake allowed for personalization with an array of favorite lollies.

3. Rubber Ducky Duck Cake: Complete with a potato chip beak and a jaunty red bow, this cake was a crowd-pleaser at every party.

2. Racing car track: Ideal for young car enthusiasts, this cake, with its easily adaptable number design, was a hit among children.

1. Humpty Dumpty: With an eggshell body and a chocolate cake wall, this adorable nursery rhyme legend cake remains a timeless favorite.

In 2020, during a time when baking saw a surge in popularity, The Australian Women’s Weekly launched a webisode series called Cake My Day. The series challenged everyday Australians to recreate these classic cakes, celebrating the book’s 40th anniversary.

These iconic Australian Women’s Weekly birthday cakes have not only left an indelible mark on Australian culture but have also become a cherished tradition that transcends generations, evoking feelings of nostalgia and joy. Whether it’s the whimsical designs, the creative challenges they present, or the sheer joy they bring to celebrations, these cakes continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many.