Cake For Birds
A nutritious and easy-to-make bird cake combining grains, dried bread, and suet to provide energy and sustenance during cold winter months for your feathered friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cornmeal, oatmeal, flour, powdered milk, baking soda, and dried bread crumbs or cereal in a large bowl.
- Add the bacon grease or ground suet and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into molds or a loaf pan and allow it to set.
- Place the formed cake outside where birds can access it during winter.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh ingredients to attract a wider variety of birds. If bacon grease is unavailable, ground suet is a great alternative. You can also substitute the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Ensure that the mixture is well combined to create a dense cake that holds together. This recipe is perfect for winter months when birds need extra sustenance.
Serving Suggestions
Place the bird cake in a location that is readily accessible to birds, such as a tree branch or a bird feeder. You can also crumble it into smaller pieces and scatter them on the ground to attract ground-feeding birds. This recipe pairs beautifully with other bird-friendly treats like sunflower seeds or dried fruit to create a diverse feeding area.
Storage & Reheating
Once set, the bird cake can be stored in a cool, dry place until you're ready to use it. If you have leftovers after placing it outside, keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Avoid refrigerating it, as moisture can affect its texture. If it gets too soft, simply let it sit out to dry before reusing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cake For Birds contains roughly 448 calories, with 14g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1707mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of grains in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different grains such as millet, quinoa, or even wild rice. Just ensure that they are safe for birds. This flexibility allows you to customize the cake to suit the preferences of the birds in your area.
What if I don't have molds to shape the cake?
If you don't have molds, you can simply press the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it by hand. Just ensure it is compact enough to hold together when placed outside. You can also use muffin tins for individual servings, which can be easily scattered.
How long will the bird cake last outside?
The longevity of the bird cake depends on weather conditions. In cooler temperatures, it can last several days, but in warmer weather, it may spoil quickly. Monitor it closely, and replace it as necessary to ensure birds have access to fresh food.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).