How to make a no sugar added smash cake | San Diego Portrait Photographer

What is a Smash Cake?

A smash cake is the ultimate highlight of a first birthday photo shoot! Watching your little one—who was just a tiny newborn not long ago—dig into their very own cake is equal parts adorable and emotional. In addition, it’s a fun way to celebrate their first big milestone while also capturing those precious moments forever. If you’re looking for a family photographer in San Diego, let’s chat! Click here to see my baby portfolio.

Easy, Sugar-Free Cake You Can Make at Home

If you’re hesitant about giving your baby sugar just yet, this cake is a total lifesaver. Even better, it’s incredibly easy to make—even for those who aren’t pros in the kitchen (like me!). Moreover, it’s much cheaper than ordering from a bakery and, most importantly, it’s made with love. This cake is simple, safe, and absolutely baby-approved.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Plain Yogurt: 16oz (454g)
• Sliced Bread: 5 slices
• Strawberries: 7 pieces
• Blueberries: As much as you like

(I used Trader Joe’s Organic Cream Top Plain Whole Milk Yogurt for extra creaminess.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Strain the Yogurt:
Place the yogurt in a strainer lined with cheesecloth, gauze, or even paper towels. Stick it in the fridge to drain. Although most recipes recommend leaving it overnight, I found that 3 hours worked just fine.

2. Cut the Bread into Circles:
Use a cup, plate, or cookie cutter if you have one. If not, a knife works perfectly well too—no need to stress about perfection!

3. Layer It Up:
Start with one slice of bread, spread on the strained yogurt, and add a few slices of strawberry. Then, repeat this process until you’ve built a cute little stack.

Repeat until you’ve got a cute little stack.

4. Top with Blueberries:

Add blueberries to the topmost layer, or use your baby’s favorite fruits for a personalized touch.

5. Chill and Set:
Wrap the entire cake in plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This step helps the cake hold its shape.

6. Frost Like a Pro:
Spread the strained yogurt all over the top and sides of the cake. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth—imperfection is part of the charm!

7. Decorate and Celebrate:
Pop on a cute cake topper, and you’re done! For an added festive touch, use a small cake stand and surround it with balloons.

Helpful Accessories for Your Smash Cake

Here are some tools to take your cake to the next level:

Pink Cake Stand
White Cake Stand
Mint Green Cake Stand
Cake Topper
Balloons
Air Balloon Pump

Make Their First Birthday Unforgettable

This smash cake is as sweet and simple as it gets—just like your little one. Not only is it healthy and adorable, but it also creates unforgettable first birthday memories! 🎉