Witch on Top Birthday Cake
A delightful and imaginative dessert perfect for Halloween-themed celebrations, featuring a whimsical witch design and rich flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Green and black food coloring (for decoration)
- Halloween-themed candies (like gummy worms, eyeball candies, etc.)
- Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round 9-inch cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl until well combined.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until smooth.
- Mix in the boiling water carefully. This will make your batter thin, which is okay! It ensures a moist cake.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with milk, until the frosting reaches a creamy consistency. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Place one layer of the cooled cakes on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top of the first and cover the entire cake with a layer of frosting.
- Divide the remaining frosting into two bowls. Color one bowl with green food coloring and the other with black. Use a piping bag to create a witch’s hat and other spooky decorations. Top with Halloween candies and edible glitter for a festive touch.
Notes
Ensure your cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting. Measure flour accurately for the best results.