If you have children, you probably understand the frustration that can come with children’s parties. If it’s a party you are hosting, then you can cater to everyone whilst being inclusive of a dairy-free diet. However, going to a party when you have an allergy or intolerance can be difficult, especially for children with specific dietary requirements, not just dairy-free. We have some wonderful friends who have gone the extra mile to include my two, but we know that isn’t always the case. I’ve seen that look that says the party food I sent is not as cool as the other kids, or a party bag disappoints. My girls are growing up, so expectations are changing and easier to manage. However, I ALWAYS try to ensure that if they need to take something with them it’s really COOL, so the others want to have what my girls have.
Enter the versatile push-up cake pop!
These push-up cake pops caught my eye a while ago and I finally ordered some the other day. I REALLY love them! They are reusable which is always a good thing, and can be used in different ways. Add some dairy-free cake, buttercream, and sprinkles and you could have something just as good as the fanciest cupcake or birthday cake. Use them to serve dessert at a party, or fill them with sweets to give out as party favours.
If you are sending your child to a party and sending party food with them, you might want to include one of these. The other kids will be curious and envious!
Here’s what I used
Asda Chocolate Fairy Cakes (accidentally dairy-free) and great for freezing.
Elmlea Plant – Double. Whipped. You can sweeten to taste by whisking in a little icing sugar if you wish.
Fresh raspberries and strawberries.
This is so easy to do. Just break up a couple of cakes and layer in the push pop, alternating with the whipped cream and fruit. It’s really handy that these also come with lids. If you want to prepare them in advance, think about your fillings. With sweets it’s easy to fill, secure with the lid, and lay them down. If you are adding fruit and cream, as I did, then you may need to stand them upright if you are making them in advance. You can buy a stand for them but I made do with a piece of polystyrene covered in foil. Just make sure you have some fridge space if they need to be chilled.
Party Favours
Alternatively, you could fill them with sweets or small gifts, to take to a party or to give to your own party guests. I used dairy-free Haribos and Swizzles Drumstick Squashies. I think the results are pretty good. You can decorate them however you wish.
Allergens. Manufacturers can and do change their ingredients and processing without notice. All ingredients should be checked every time with regard to specific allergens. Please take note of any “may contain” warnings if you are at risk from cross-contamination.
