In a touching family moment, Princess Catherine of Wales prepares for another birthday celebration for her eldest son, Prince George, as he turns 12. While the royal family’s celebrations are often private, royal fans already know that Catherine will be up late the night before, baking a homemade birthday cake for her son. This milestone birthday marks a significant moment for George as he transitions from childhood into his pre-teen years, making it all the more meaningful.

Unlike the grand celebrations one might expect from royals, Catherine has always preferred a more down-to-earth approach. Rather than ordering an extravagant cake, she enjoys baking a homemade one for her children. As a source close to the family shared, the Princess of Wales is known for staying up late, baking with plenty of cake mix and icing, to surprise her children with the cake in the morning. “It’s become a tradition that I stay up until midnight,” Catherine once said, laughing about the ridiculous amounts of cake she makes.

Baking is one of Catherine’s favorite hobbies, and it’s something she has joyfully shared with her family. She revealed that her children, including Prince George, even baked a cake for her on Mother’s Day, proving that homemade treats are a beloved tradition in the Wales household. In the past, Catherine and Prince William have shared charming photos of their homemade creations, such as a colorful Victoria sponge cake decorated with Smarties, sprinkles, and even pipe cleaners shaped into hearts.

The Wales family’s approach to life is grounded in normalcy, and Catherine’s passion for baking plays a big role in their family life. She has spoken in the past about how cooking and baking bring the family together, especially during special moments like birthdays. In a Berry Royal Christmas special, Catherine worked alongside Mary Berry to prepare a festive meal for charity workers, emphasizing her belief that food has the power to connect people.

This grounded approach is reflected in the way the royal family spends time together. For instance, Prince George, who is the first heir to the throne in generations not to be sent to boarding school during his early years, has enjoyed a more family-centered upbringing. Last summer, the royal couple released a heartwarming portrait of Prince George, captured by Catherine herself, showing the young prince in a blue polo shirt, grinning happily—resembling his father, Prince William.

These candid moments offer a rare glimpse into the lives of the young royals, showing their love, laughter, and the joy they share as a family. As George celebrates his 12th birthday, it’s clear that his family’s bond and traditions are just as important as any grand public appearances.

From his birth, where fans eagerly awaited his name, to this intimate birthday celebration, Prince George’s life has been marked by the love and support of his family. His name, George Alexander Louis, was chosen to honor his great-great-grandfather, King George V. Although Catherine had initially hoped for the name Alexander, the couple ultimately chose George as the first name, with Alexander becoming one of his middle names.

In this special time, Catherine’s tradition of baking a birthday cake represents the warmth and love that binds the Wales family, offering a tender and personal touch to Prince George’s milestone birthday.