In Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, Scandinavia's three constitutional monarchies, the birthdays of royal family members are recognized as national holidays. Today Swedes will raise their flags in tribute to King Carl XVI Gustaf's birthday.

Although called "Princess Cake," Swedish Prinsesstårta might tempt a king as well! Commonly served as a birthday cake in Sweden, it offers a rich combination of white cake layers, pastry cream, raspberry jam, whipped cream, and green marzipan icing.

Swedish Princess Cake image ©2008 Kari Diehl, licensed to About.com.