Birthday Menu | Still Thinking About This Meal

I’ve learned over the years that the way I enjoy hosting the most is to do most of the work ahead of time. So at dinner we can all feel present and unhurried.

So, that morning, I started marinating the chicken. Simple, but not lacking in flavor, just pop it in the oven about an hour before everyone shows up. Around that same time, I chopped the potatoes and shallots for the main dish, sliced up tomatoes for a little something to start, and prepped peaches and figs—some for a salad, some for dessert.

It was all so manageable, so simple—until I got to the cake. Or more specifically, the buttercream.

Now, let me say: the cake itself is no big deal. You can make it a day ahead, and it holds up beautifully. But the meringue buttercream took effort- the only thing that took effort the whole meal. I love meringue buttercream though. It's luxurious and grown-up and worth it. But it does ask some of you. I found myself elbow-deep in mixing bowls, reading Reddit threads about butter that wouldn’t quite cooperate.

If you’re not up for that kind of relationship with your cake topping, whipped cream is a graceful, no-fuss option. Still beautiful. Still delicious. But I was committed. And in the end, it worked. The buttercream came together. The cake was heavenly.

But the real bit of heaven was when we passed plates and drinks, blessed our sweet birthday friend and lingered at the table. As always! Happy Birthday, Hillary! I’m so glad we really surprised you!

Feel free to use this menu below! I printed on 4.5x6.5 cardstock I found in a large pack at hobby lobby.