Your baby’s first birthday is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone filled with joy, giggles, and maybe a little frosting on the nose! Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration or a big bash, the birthday cake is the star of the show—right after your little one, of course.
From charming smash cakes to beautifully themed designs, we’ve gathered some of the most delightful first birthday cake ideas to help make their big day extra special. Get ready to be inspired by these 25 sweet creations that are as memorable as they are mouthwatering!
1. Pretty in Pink Ruffle Cake
Soft, elegant, and timeless, this pink ruffle cake brings a touch of femininity and grace to any first birthday celebration. With layers of delicate buttercream ruffles cascading down the tiers, and adorned with sweet satin pink bows, it exudes charm and sophistication. The subtle ombre effect of the ruffles adds depth, while the delicate ribbons create a perfect finishing touch. It’s a beautiful, understated design that’s perfect for a little princess’s special day. Cake @assorted_desserts_by_anika
2. Hello Kitty Cherry Cake
Bright, bubbly, and full of charm, this Hello Kitty-themed cake is a pink delight for a little one’s special day. Adorned with fondant bows, cherries, and balloon details, it perfectly captures a playful and sweet vibe. The twin Hello Kitty toppers, adorable bunny plush, and mini birthday cake add extra fun to the scene. With Gianna’s name proudly displayed and a big number one front and centre, it’s a joyful, picture-perfect cake to celebrate a first birthday in style. Cake @cakeartbyclaudia
3. Teddy Bear in Hot Air Balloon
Floating among fluffy clouds and golden stars, this dreamy hot air balloon cake is pure magic. A textured teddy bear sits sweetly in a woven basket, ready to soar into a sky of soft neutrals and whimsical wonder. The delicate wooden ladder and cotton-like clouds add storybook charm, while the personalised plaque reading “Henry is One” makes it extra special. It’s a truly one-derful design—perfect for turning a first birthday into an unforgettable fairytale celebration. Cake @panache.events_.
4. Colourful Cocomelon Celebration Cake
Bursts of rainbow-bright colours and favourite Cocomelon characters make this cake an instant crowd-pleaser for little fans. With three lively tiers featuring the iconic baby, school bus scene, and cheerful watermelon face, it brings the show’s joyful spirit to life. The scattered candy-like spheres add a playful 3D touch, while the personalised topper crowns it perfectly. It’s a vibrant, fun-filled design that promises smiles, laughter, and a whole lot of singing on baby Nirvaan’s big day. Cake @cct_sydney.
5. Little Prince Royal Cake
Fit for a tiny king, this regal masterpiece commands attention with its ornate gold detailing and majestic crown topper. The soft blue base adds a gentle, elegant contrast to the intricate gilded patterns, while coordinating cupcakes complete the royal theme. Personalised with the name “Zidaan,” it’s a first birthday cake that radiates luxury and grandeur. Perfect for a prince’s big day, it sets the tone for a celebration full of love, splendour, and fairy-tale charm. Cake @cupcakerbradford.
6. Paddington Bear London Cake
Charming and quintessentially British, this Paddington Bear-themed cake is a heartwarming tribute to a beloved childhood classic. Featuring hand-drawn-style details of Big Ben, a red phone box, and Paddington himself—complete with his suitcase and signature duffle coat—it tells a delightful story. Topped with red, white, and blue balloons and a golden name plaque, it’s a perfect first birthday cake for little adventurers like Millie. Whimsical, nostalgic, and oh-so-sweet, it’s sure to melt hearts. Cake @thegingerbearbakery.
7. Enchanted Garden Fairy Cake
Delicate, dreamy, and utterly magical, this fairy-themed creation looks straight out of a storybook. Covered in pastel blossoms, iridescent butterflies, and whimsical fairies, it’s a true feast for the eyes. The soft textures and golden highlights give it an ethereal charm, perfect for celebrating little Selena’s first year. With every angle revealing new enchanting details, this cake brings fantasy to life and turns a first birthday into a sparkling garden of wonder and joy. Cake @anna_kyra_cakes.
8. Minimalist Starry Smash Cake
Elegant in its simplicity, this minimalist white cake is all about letting that golden number one shine. The textured buttercream finish gives it a soft, rustic touch, while the star-studded topper adds a sparkling pop of celebration. Perfect as a smash cake or a chic centrepiece, it’s a lovely choice for parents who appreciate understated style with a hint of glam. Sometimes, less truly is more—especially when the milestone is this meaningful. Cake @marynbakes.
9. Winnie the Pooh Woodland Cake
Sweet and nostalgic, this Winnie the Pooh cake brings the Hundred Acre Wood to life for Artin’s first birthday. With Pooh happily dipping into a pot of “hunny,” Piglet perched beside him, and Tigger and Eeyore cheerfully resting below, every beloved character makes an appearance. The pastel tones, buzzing bees, and forest details like trees and mushrooms add to the storybook charm. It’s a heartwarming design that captures childhood magic in every fondant-filled detail. Cake @arezoocake.
10. Whimsical Carnival Cupcake Cake
Overflowing with colour, joy, and sweet surprises, this carnival-inspired cake is a showstopper for little Maruva’s big day. Designed like a giant cupcake on top of a candyland base, it features playful pinwheels, donuts, a unicorn, a Ferris wheel, and even a cherry on top. From the pastel palette to the gold-accented name topper, every detail radiates birthday cheer. It’s a delightful fantasy brought to life—perfect for a first birthday filled with fun, laughter, and a sprinkle of magic. Cake @thewhiskcorner.
11. Under-the-Sea Princess Cake
Bringing ocean dreams to life, this pastel under-the-sea cake is a breathtaking beauty for little Ada’s big celebration. Topped with an adorable figurine seated in a scallop shell throne, it’s surrounded by delicate coral, seashells, and shimmering bubbles. Soft hues of lavender, mint, and pink blend with touches of gold, creating a magical underwater wonderland. Finished with a golden number one and the birthday girl’s name on a seashell plaque, it’s a first birthday cake worthy of a sea princess. Cake @cakebykezz.
12. Teddy Bear Gentleman’s Cake
Dressed to impress, this sophisticated teddy bear cake is a stylish tribute to baby Ege’s first birthday. From the knitted fondant textures and plaid patterns to the detailed baby blocks and playful bear figurines, it’s full of charm and craftsmanship. The soft navy and cream palette paired with tailored details like buttons and a bow tie gives it a polished, preppy feel. With its mix of classic and cute, this cake is perfect for a little gentleman’s big celebration.Cake @cakebykezz.
13. Vintage Minnie Mouse Cake
A sweet blend of nostalgia and charm, this vintage-style Minnie Mouse cake is perfect for celebrating Olivia’s first birthday. Decorated with soft pink buttercream, delicate piped florals, and elegant garlands, it brings a timeless look with a playful twist. Minnie, dressed in her classic polka-dot outfit, takes centre stage with a cheerful smile and matching bow. Finished with a golden number one topper and a personalised name tag, it’s a darling choice for any little Disney fan. Cake @lottastorten.
14. Woodland Whimsy Cake
Bursting with colour and woodland charm, this enchanted forest cake is a whimsical masterpiece for little Elwood’s big day. With tree bark textures, lush green piping, mushrooms, butterflies, and blossoms all around, it looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale. The vibrant details and playful layering make it feel alive with nature’s magic, perfect for a nature-loving family or a forest-themed first birthday party. A delightful tribute to curiosity, wonder, and turning one. Cake @sweetnellysco.
15. Pastel Unicorn Dream Cake
Sprinkled with magic and sweetness, this unicorn-themed cake is a fairytale come true for a first birthday celebration. Adorned with soft pastel blooms, delicate white frosting, and two charming unicorn toppers with golden horns and flowing manes, it radiates gentle whimsy. The pink number one takes centre stage, marking a precious milestone in the most enchanting way. Perfect for a dreamy day full of wonder, giggles, and love, it’s a cake fit for a little star. Cake @_cake_cream_.
16. Chic Neutral Teddy Cake
Stylish and sophisticated, this square teddy bear cake is a modern take on first birthday elegance. The soft beige texture, golden flakes, and minimalist chocolate spheres create a luxe, neutral palette perfect for any gender. Topped with an adorable teddy in a party hat and finished with a golden “One” script, it’s simple yet statement-making. This cake blends cuteness with class—ideal for a contemporary celebration that’s as sweet as it is refined. Cake @mur.mur_cake.
17. Bing Bunny Birthday Cake
Bright, bold, and full of fun, this Bing Bunny-themed cake is bursting with energy for Adah’s special day. Featuring all the beloved characters from the popular children’s show, the vibrant red and white gradient background is dotted with playful candy spheres and topped with a cheerful yellow number one. Each tier is packed with colour and excitement, making it the perfect centrepiece for a lively first birthday party full of joy, giggles, and Bing-approved adventures. Cake @cakes.by.hazel.
18. Magical Carousel Cake
Step right up to a celebration like no other with this breathtaking carousel-themed cake! Draped in classic red and white stripes and adorned with ornate gold accents, it captures the whimsical charm of a vintage fairground. Elegant horses prance around the middle tier, while a golden steed tops off the look in show-stopping style. The number one medallion adds a regal touch, making this an unforgettable centrepiece for a first birthday full of wonder, joy, and timeless magic. Cake @jagodove.torty.
19. Teddy Bear Picnic Cake
Sweet, playful, and full of charm, this teddy bear cake is a delightful way to mark little Hana’s first birthday. Topped with an adorable bear in a party hat holding a red balloon and mini cake, it brings joyful celebration to life. The soft cream frosting is dotted with pink flowers and mini bear decorations, creating a whimsical and heartwarming design. Perfect for a cosy party with loved ones, it’s a cake that feels as cuddly as it looks. Cake @lovecakes_bydorinela.
20. Daisy Meadow Cake
Fresh, sweet, and delightfully simple, this daisy-themed cake is like a stroll through a spring meadow. The soft mint green and blush pink tiers are gently frosted for a natural, hand-finished look, adorned with cheerful white daisies and dainty vines. A small pink number one adds the perfect birthday touch without overpowering the design. Ideal for a garden party or nature-loving little one, it’s a beautifully understated way to celebrate turning one with grace and joy. Cake @bullbaker_doceria
21. Simple Smash Cake Moment
Sometimes the sweetest moments come in the simplest packages—like this adorable smash cake setup! With a classic white cake, soft frosting swirls, and a baby-sized portion just right for little fingers, it’s made for pure, joyful mess. The birthday boy steals the show in his crown and knitted outfit, diving into his first taste of birthday fun. Surrounded by soft blue balloons and matching décor, it’s a picture-perfect scene for celebrating one unforgettable year. Cake @balancebylina
22. Sweet Daisy Bear Cake
Soft, charming, and full of love, this daisy bear cake is a beautiful choice for a gentle first birthday celebration. Adorned with tiny piped daisies, pastel butterflies, and a precious teddy in a party hat, it captures the innocence of babyhood perfectly. The pastel balloons and pink number one topper add a whimsical touch without overwhelming the clean, minimalist design. It’s a sweet and timeless cake that feels just as delicate and delightful as your little one’s first year. Cake @nataliyaramanava
23. Vintage Floral Ribbon Buttercream Cake
Delicate and romantic, this vintage-style cake is adorned with hand-piped buttercream florals and ruffled edges that feel straight out of a classic celebration. Soft pink bows and colourful blossoms form a charming garland around the sides, while the top is sprinkled with dainty flowers framed by elegant frills. With its timeless beauty and gentle palette, this cake is a graceful choice for a first birthday that celebrates love, sweetness, and a touch of old-fashioned charm. Cake @sukarbakes
24. Little Blue Bear Cake
Soft, sweet, and irresistibly cute, this teddy bear cake is a gentle delight for a first birthday celebration. Featuring a plush-style bear in a party hat and bow tie, the cake is finished with a pale blue frill and delicate dotted details for an understated, modern look. The minimal “1” on the front adds the perfect milestone touch. Ideal for a cosy gathering or stylish smash cake moment, it’s the perfect blend of charm and simplicity. Cake @ana_s_cake_studio
25. Elegant Butterfly Garden Cake
Graceful and refined, this stunning butterfly-themed cake is a dreamy centrepiece for a sophisticated first birthday. Decorated with delicate wafer-paper butterflies, shimmering sugar pearls, and a textured golden number one, it radiates luxury and charm. Soft ivory frosting sets the perfect backdrop for the fresh blush-toned florals that nestle around the base. It’s a beautifully balanced blend of nature and elegance—ideal for a little one’s milestone moment celebrated in timeless style. Cake kulik_ova
No matter which cake you choose, what truly matters is the love and joy surrounding your little one on their special day. A first birthday marks the start of many more sweet moments to come, and the cake is just the beginning. So go ahead—celebrate the “one-derful” year you’ve had with a treat that’s as unforgettable as your baby’s first smile. Here’s to cake, cuddles, and a day full of happy memories!
