Preschoolers get so excited for birthday parties. Whether it is their own or a friend’s birthday, that big day spreads a special energy among a preschooler and his peers. During that exciting time, choose a reasonably healthy cake option that will provide your little one with some nutrients instead of just a truck full of sugar.

Pumpkin

If your child loves savory, spicy flavors or if his birthday falls in the harvest season of fall, bake him a pumpkin cake that is lower in fat and sugar than traditional cakes. You will also be sneaking in some nutritious pumpkin into the dessert. Mix a plain or vanilla cake mix with a can of pumpkin–not pumpkin pie filling. Bake according to the box directions. Bake as a sheet cake or in a round form to create a pumpkin shape. You can decorate with cream cheese icing. For a lower-sugar option, serve a low-sugar frozen yogurt or ice cream with the cake.

Carrot

Carrot cakes are the perfect place to hide some veggies, fruits and proteins. A plate of carrots probably won’t be very popular at a preschool party, but if the carrots are hidden in a cake the kids will never know. Carrot cake recipes often call for a cup or two of shredded carrots. You can also mix in some dried fruits, such as raisins or currants, and nuts, such as walnuts, for added nutrition. Make this cake for a garden party, a rabbit party, a spring party or any other party where your little ones will love a rich, dense, healthy cake.

Berries

Strawberry shortcake is a great cake option for parties of the same theme, as well as a variety of others. You can bake a simple, light angel cake, in any shape you would like for your party. Whip up your own low-sugar whipped cream to top the cake. Smother the cake in antioxidant-rich berries, or place them strategically to create a design to spell your child’s name. You can mix blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries or any other favorites.

Minis

Limit the amount of dessert your preschooler inhales by serving mini cakes or cupcakes. You can trick your little ones a bit by baking your favorite, nutritious muffin recipe. Banana muffins, blueberry muffins, even cornbread muffins can make cute little cupcakes. Top with a tasty icing or serve with some ice cream, and you might just get away with it.