Traditionally, people put candles on a birthday cake as part of the standard decorations. However, the rules for these types of events are rapidly changing every day. Whether you dislike candles or are interested in something more unique, many people are curious about the alternatives that are available. In fact, around 20% of people are looking for alternatives to birthday candles on a cake. To help, I’ve put together this list of 8 wonderful options for those seeking something more adventurous. From basic items to spectacular displays, here are the best alternatives on the market.
Fairy Lights
Fairy lights are essentially a small string of lights that can be used almost anywhere. Similar to Christmas lights, each small LED illuminates for a subtle, yet beautiful, visual effect. Typically, they are powered by a small battery pack so they can be transported nearly anywhere. Furthermore, they often feature various blinking patterns so you can customize the experience. By placing your fairy lights around the cake, they easily make one of the better alternatives to birthday candles for your event.
Sparkler Candles
Another way to change things up is to go for something a bit more spectacular. There are a lot of different candles out there for cakes including ones that play music or even trick versions that relight every time you blow them out. However, the most spectacular option is birthday candle sparklers that shoot out a shower of sparks during the performance. Simply place them into your cake using the included anchoring spike. Once lit, the sparks will last for plenty of time for everyone to sing “happy birthday” before you can enjoy a slice of the cake.
LED Candles
Another one of my favorite alternatives to birthday candles on a cake is to forgo an open flame all together. Instead, consider choosing LED candles that look very similar without any need for matches or lighters. They work exactly the same as traditional candles, but they are powered by batteries instead. They even simulate the flickering associated with a flame to mimic the appearance almost perfectly. Best of all, they can be used over and over so you never have to worry about buying candles again!
Action Figures
Of course, emulating candles is not the only option you have for birthday cake decorations. Optionally, you can go the same route many couples do for their wedding cake and use a topper. Instead of a bride and groom, consider using action figures to make a cool scene from their favorite show. For instance, you can put Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle figures on a cake to make a cool display with minimal effort. Similarly, you could do GI Joe figures or anything else you have lying around. Best of all, the figures can double as a birthday gift making the party even more memorable!
Ribbons
One of the most underrated alternatives to candles on a cake is something you probably already have lying around in a drawer. Of course, I’m talking about simply ribbon! Ribbon has all sorts of decorative uses, and cakes are certainly no exception. First, you can do something basic like wrapping it around the circumference of the cake. Additionally, you can cut it into small pieces and sprinkle it on the frosting similar to how you decorate with sprinkles. Lastly, you can create little ribbon wands and put them on the cake in place of traditional candles. Whatever option you choose, it is a great way to change things up with items you probably have in your party supply box.
Flower Petals
Flower petals are another awesome way to spruce up your birthday cake without candles. Simply place an assortment of your favorite flower petals on top of the frosting in the same way you would sprinkles. Not only will it look amazing, but you can also choose colors that match your other decorations. However, you need to be careful to not use petals from a poisonous type of flower for obvious reasons. Instead, consider choosing flower petals that are edible for a unique spin on an old classic. Optionally, you can use candy flower petals to ensure the flavor matches up with the sugary taste of your frosting.
Fireworks
If you plan to have your party outside, you have a lot more options at your disposal. One of the coolest ways to make the guest of honor feel special is by using fireworks. Specifically, birthday cake sparklers are the ideal choice because they are easy to find and designed for this purpose. However, some people go bigger with things like roman candles or even bottle rockets! Whatever you choose, make sure you are being safe and responsible. The last thing you want is a trip to the emergency room during a birthday celebration.
Glow Sticks
Lastly, one of the simplest alternatives to birthday candles on a cake are glow sticks. Just snap a few of them to start the chemical reaction, and then stick them in the cake the same way you would candles. Then, flip off the lights for an eerie glowing cake that’s sure to impress! Glow sticks are extremely easy to use, and the plastic shell is safe to use around food. Best of all, they are easy to find at most stores so you won’t have to travel very far to find what you need.
As you can see, there are plenty of great options out there that can be used as alternatives to birthday candles on a cake. Whether you want to avoid an open flame or just want to shake things up, there are variations to suit anyone’s needs. Whether you want something simple like fairy lights or something more grandiose like birthday sparklers, your imagination is really the only limitation. Just make sure the substitute you choose is safe to use around food and you can get as creative as you want. Good luck and have a fantastic birthday party!
