Do you know how cutting cake on a birthday became a tradition?

For most of us, it is difficult to imagine birthday celebrations without cutting a delicious cake. Interestingly, in most Indian households, celebrating birthdays and special occasions with something sweet has been an age-old tradition, but little do we know when this ritual of eating sweets and kheer was replaced by birthday cakes! Here’s all you need to know about this age-old tradition.

The origin of cutting cakes on birthdays dates back to ancient Greek mythology, where the goddess of the moon, Artemis, was offered a round-shaped cake on her birthday. It was believed that the shape of a birthday cake signified the circular shape of the moon, and the candles on the moon signified the glow of the moon. Another popular belief that revolved around adding candles to the cakes reflected devotion and gratitude towards the Moon Goddess Artemis.

In fact, there are several theories associated with these ancient theories that indicate that the tradition of blowing candles on birthdays is also connected to the ancient practice of lighting the candles in order to worship the birth of the Goddess Artemis.

Apart from that, this tradition was further adapted by several cultures and countries, which gave us the tradition of cutting a cake to celebrate.

To make a simple white forest cake, start by baking a soft and fluffy white sponge cake, then slice it into layers. Whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread a layer of whipped cream on the first cake layer, and add a generous amount of cherries or cherry compote along with some chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips. Repeat the process with remaining layers, covering the whole cake with whipped cream and topping with more cherries and white chocolate shavings. Chill in the fridge for an hour before serving for a smooth, creamy texture.