Kids’ Birthday Party Food Ideas On A Budget

Celebrate a child’s birthday without breaking the bank this year. We’ve rounded up the best budget-friendly kids’ party food using inexpensive ingredients and storecupboard staples. Feeding a crowd can be daunting while trying not to overspend but our affordable options are here to help.

While some of these recipes call for baking in the oven, an air fryer might be used as a more energy-efficient alternative. Or maximise on oven space by planning ahead and baking more than one thing at a time.

For all your budget needs, including meal plans, microwave recipes and leftovers, see our budget hub.

Put on an easy party with our birthday ideas for kids at home, including an afternoon tea, pizza party, spa day and more.

For even more nibbles and treats, see our ultimate kids’ party food collection.

Savoury budget party food

Chicken nuggets

Classic chicken nuggets are always a winner with kids. This easy recipe takes just 30 mins to make and the chicken can be oven baked or pan-fried. Serve with a selection of dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mayo or barbecue sauce.

For more ideas, see our kids’ chicken recipes.

Pizza with homemade sauce

Make your favourite takeaway dinner at home with this top-rated pizza recipe, complete with homemade sauce. It’s easy to make and a great budget option. Cut into small slices for little ones to dig into.

Discover more flavours and toppings with our kids’ pizza recipes.

Easy sausage rolls

The ultimate crowd-pleasing party food, these mini sausage rolls are the perfect size for youngsters and will go down a treat. Use shop-bought pastry for an easy shortcut, fill with sausage meat and bake for half an hour until golden brown. They’re also delicious served cold so can be made in advance.

More like this

See our sausage roll collection for everything from a giant sausage roll wreath to mini rolls.

Egg & cress club sandwich

Try cutting classic sandwiches into bite-sized pieces for kids to enjoy. This budget-friendly egg & cress club makes an easy addition to any buffet. You can also include simple options such as ham & cheese or turkey.

Try new filling ideas with our sandwich recipes.

Mini pizza quiches

These mini quiches use a handful of ingredients and come together in a flash. Line a muffin tin with wraps and fill with eggs, salami, cherry tomatoes, extra veggies and a couple of basil leaves, then bake for 15 minutes. They can easily be made ahead of time.

Find more ideas with our kids’ snack recipes.

Sweet budget party food

Easy birthday cake

Birthday cake with pink frosting and candles

Can’t decide between chocolate or vanilla cake? Why not have both! With this easy birthday cake recipe, you can also colour the icing in your little one’s favourite colour and top with colourful sprinkles or a dash of edible glitter for an extra special touch.

For more cake ideas, including mermaid and unicorn versions, see our birthday cake recipes.

Instant frozen berry yogurt

This simple three-ingredient frozen yogurt can be made as a lighter alternative to ice cream at a kids’ party. Simply mix equal parts frozen mixed berries with plain Greek yogurt and a tablespoon of honey or agave. Kids will love the strong fruity flavours.

See more nutritious alternatives, see our healthy dessert recipes.

Fudgy brownies

What goes over better with kids than a pan of freshly baked brownies? These easy fudgy brownies can be customised with pretzels, nuts, chocolate chips, sprinkles or mini candies for an added treat.

For even more brownies, including salted caramel or peanut butter, see our kids’ brownie recipes.

Fruity skewers with yogurt dip

Kids can help out in the kitchen making these colourful fruit skewers. Pick out your favourite fruits, such as strawberries, bananas and grapes, and skewer for easy treats on the go. Try serving with a yogurt dip on the side flavoured with maple syrup and a dash of cinnamon.

See more easy snacks with our no-cook kids’ recipes.

Chocolate chip traybake

A simple traybake cake is a great way to serve a party crowd. First bake the cake and leave to cool, then simply pour over the chocolate icing and leave to set. No complicated decorating required.

For carrot cake, raspberry ripple and banoffee versions, see our traybake collection.