Romans took their feasting seriously, which meant that times they were set to celebrate big events, including birthdays, often adopted a religious tone.

They praised the gods and goddesses of their pantheon, asking them for help and protection throughout the coming year, and the birthday cake was a big part of this process.

Before cutting loose for their birthday celebration, Roman citizens would pray to their respective spiritual attendants, who were responsible for guiding them.

They would then make an offering to their spiritual attendant, and among the offerings was a honey cake made from spelt flour, pine nuts, honey, eggs, and sweet raisin wine.

When it came time to evoke the spirit of Bacchus at one's birthday celebration, these honey cakes were also served as a way to mark the occasion.