If something as simple as a birthday cake triggers your husbands anger, there is some deep seated issues going on with him. I would always suggest counseling, but he has to agree to go thru with it, i'm guessing he won't. I am not trying to play the "bad childhood" card here as i had a shitty childhood myself, but there are a million different ways to leave those memories behind and move forward.
The first thing you need to do is to have a serious and loving conversation with him. Complaining and attacking him will only make it worse. You may have to tread lightly as his emotions are right at the surface and could become explosive. Make him understand that you understand, even if you fully don't. Be kind and gentle with the way you approach this, what sounds simple to you is very troublesome to him and you must treat him with kindness and understanding. Try this, as this is the first step to helping your husband cope with his past.
This may work if you tell him that he hurts your feelings and that you just want a loving and healthy marraige. Make sure you let him know that you know that he hurts too and that together, you can work thru anythng. This may work, but if it doesn't you then have to toughen up and tell him that enough is enough. Having a baby at this point in your marraige is probably not a good idea, make sure to tell him that also. Children can either make or break a marraige.
Try the understanding part first, then give him some time. If he has a fit and wants to ignore you, let him. Ask him what he wants, he has to want something. It sucks to walk thru a marraige as if you were walking on egg shells, it's so uncomfortable and it's not fair either. Suggest some counseling as it deff won't hurt.
I just came across your reply from a week ago. I am so glad that i could help you, even if it was just a start. Couples counseling is a wonderful idea and i am happy to hear that he is willing to go. Good luck with new mission and i hope that you get the loving and happy husband that you deserve. You sre so welcome. Take care of yourself and your man. Come back soon and let me know how it's going, i will keep my fingers crossed and say a little prayer for you. BBfeet9