How to Make a Beautiful Diaper Cake (With an Edible Favor Twist)
When my daughter was pregnant, someone made her the most beautiful diaper cake for her baby shower.
It was practical. Thoughtful. Soft and elegant.
But as I stood there looking at it, I kept thinking…
It needs something sweet.
So I tucked Luna Candy Co lollipops right into the layers — and instantly it went from “cute and useful” to a true centerpiece that guests could actually interact with.
If you’ve ever wanted to make a diaper cake but felt intimidated, I promise — it’s much easier than it looks. You only need diapers, ribbon, rubber bands, and a sturdy cake base (I linked the exact supplies I recommend below).
And if you want to elevate it? I’ll show you how to do that too.
The Exact Supplies You’ll Need
These are the specific items that make this simple and sturdy:
Size 1 or Size 2 diapers (about 40–80 depending on how large you want it)
My personal favorites are these or these. If cleaner, more natural brand is important to the mom to be then you could opt for something like this. I always buy a few more than I need for the cake and give the rest of the box to the mom. Another reason to use size one or two, not newborn size. And any bigger than size 2 is too big for the cake.
Assorted sized rubber bands for bundling. Small ones for individual diapers and larger ones for bundling diapers together to form the layer (s).
Wide satin ribbon (2–4 inch works beautifully). This ribbon is the exact one I use. Not only is the quality great but they come in many different colors. It's the 3 inch size which is my preference.
Assorted size cake boards or sturdy base. I personally like the multi-tier diaper cakes and getting assorted sized cake boards allows you to make a two or three tier cake. While one layer is perfect, 3 is a stunning center piece, especially if you make it dual purpose and edible like I'm going to show you.
Hot glue gun. I've tried a lot of them. I stand by corded and full size every time. The cordless ones don't heat as reliably and you will use this more than you think. For nearly the same price, just get the full sized one I linked above.
Glue sticks. Just like it says. Your gun will come with some but you may need extra so while you're shopping just get them so you don't run out mid making.
You will need faux flowers or greenery to decorate the cake. These are the finishing touches. These are my favorite in the pink family. If you are doing a cake for a boy and want blue, check these out.
Clear cellophane wrap if gifting. Personally I take them to be centerpieces but if you are giving as just a gift then it will look nice wrapped.
And for the edible favor upgrade:
Luna Candy Co lollipops-our pick 6 collection allows you to pick the flavors and colors. If you want a large number to use as baby shower favors and for your cake (yes I am biased but I highly recommend for cohesive decorations), check out our wholesale option. Feel free to reach out for custom flavor and color combination and custom labels with a baby shower specific label.
Step 1: Roll the Diapers
Lay each diaper flat and roll it tightly from front to back. Secure each one with a small rubber band.
Yes, it feels repetitive.
But once you get into a rhythm, it goes quickly. I usually roll all of them first and stack them in a basket so assembly feels easy.
Step 2: Build the Bottom Tier
Stand the rolled diapers upright in a circle.
Use one large rubber band around the entire group to secure them. If you want a fuller look, create a small center bundle first and build outward from there.
For a medium cake, you’ll usually use 25–30 diapers on the bottom layer.
Place everything on a sturdy cake board like this one so it doesn’t shift when you move it.
Step 3: Add the Second (and Third) Tier
Repeat the same process with fewer diapers to create smaller tiers.
Stack them directly on top or my recommendation is to use your cake boards between layers.
If you want extra stability, you can gently run a wooden dowel or sturdy stick through the center. These ones come in assorted sizes and are economical.
It doesn’t have to be complicated. It just needs to feel secure.
Step 4: Wrap with Ribbon
Now it starts looking like a cake.
Wrap wide satin ribbon around each tier to hide the rubber bands. I prefer a structured satin ribbon like this because it photographs beautifully and holds its shape.
Secure the ribbon with a small dot of hot glue — only on the ribbon, never on the diapers.
Choose colors that match the shower theme. Soft neutrals always look timeless in photos. Below you will see my daughter wanted darker colors so know your audience.
Step 5: Add Florals and Decorative Touches
This is what makes it boutique-worthy instead of homemade.
Tuck faux florals between diapers. Add small clusters around the base. Layer in greenery for dimension.
I like using soft florals like these or these because they photograph well and don’t overpower the design.
Keep it balanced. Less is usually more.
Step 6: The Edible Favor Upgrade (My Favorite Part)
This is where I added Luna lollipops.
Instead of just decorating with florals, I tucked individually wrapped gourmet lollipops into the layers.
Here’s why I love this idea:
They add color and shine.
Guests can grab one as a favor.
It doubles as décor and treat.
It feels thoughtful instead of purely practical.
Most diaper cakes are beautiful — but they’re not interactive.
Adding edible favors changes that.
You can choose soft pastels for a baby shower, coordinated colors for a gender reveal, or neutral tones for a sprinkle. We can even create custom labels.
You can shop the exact lollipops I used here:
6-pack you pick or wholesale options.
