Baby Shower Food Ideas for Every Budget

Food makes or breaks a shower. Go too skimpy and guests leave hungry; go too elaborate and you've blown your budget. Here's how to nail it at every price point.

How Much Food to Plan

General rules:

• Appetizers only (2–3 hours): 8–10 pieces per person
• Brunch (late morning): 1 main + 2 sides + pastries
• Lunch (afternoon): 1 main + 2 sides + dessert
• Cocktail style: 6–8 substantial bites per person per hour

Budget Menus ($5–8 per person)

Brunch option:

• Homemade quiche (1 feeds 8)
• Fresh fruit platter
• Grocery store croissants/muffins
• Juice, coffee, water

Appetizer option:

• Veggie tray with hummus
• Cheese and crackers
• Caprese skewers (mozzarella, tomato, basil)
• Costco frozen appetizers (spanakopita, meatballs)

Mid-Range Menus ($10–15 per person)

Garden party:

• Assorted tea sandwiches (cucumber, chicken salad, egg salad)
• Mixed green salad
• Fruit with yogurt dip
• Scones with clotted cream
• Lemonade and iced tea

Brunch spread:

• Eggs (scrambled or frittata)
• Bacon or sausage
• Pancakes or waffles
• Fruit
• Mimosa bar

Elevated Menus ($15–25 per person)

Catered brunch:

• Professional charcuterie board
• Smoked salmon platter with bagels
• Quiche Lorraine
• Mixed greens with vinaigrette
• Fresh berries and cream
• Full beverage service

Drink Ideas

Non-alcoholic (always have these):

• Infused water (cucumber-mint, strawberry-basil)
• Sparkling water
• Lemonade or iced tea
• Coffee and hot tea

Alcoholic (optional):

• Mimosa bar — champagne + 3 juices (orange, cranberry, peach)
• Sangria pitcher
• Light beer and wine

Dessert

Cake alternatives:

• Cupcakes (easier to serve, no cutting)
• Macaron tower
• Dessert bar (cookies, brownies, fruit tarts)
• Ice cream sundae station

Budget option: Costco sheet cakes are $20–40 and taste great. Decorate with fresh flowers on top to elevate it.

Dietary Considerations

Always have options for common restrictions:

• At least one vegetarian option
• Gluten-free crackers or bread
• Dairy-free option (fruit, veggies with hummus)
• Labels for dishes with nuts