Cupcakes How is this for a switch from a regular birthday cake... Serve a variety of cupcakes and have them arranged in the shape of the child's favorite toy...Fire Engine, Space Ship, Dog, Cat, Computer, whatever you can think of for a design. To display the cupcakes, use lightweight Styrofoam to make the design.  Also, why not use the metallic looking cupcake holders instead of paper.  You can also use them as containers for mixed nuts, and mints for each child.